By Patricia Czerwonka
This is the tale of two chalices, one a static representation of our symbolism and the other a fluid dance across the wall of our sanctuary. One was a failure, the other a triumph. Both reflect the love we share for our community.
Did you know that the shadow (or rainbow) of the chalice across the sanctuary wall has changed? It has, and it did right before the pandemic. UUCWC became my sanctuary when Rev. Kim first joined our church. The words of inspiration, the inclusion of all people, and the affirmation of being one with the Earth made me feel like I found my home and my people.
The moment I first set foot in UUCWC, Roy Vogel charmed me with his warm, welcoming presence. I love his banter, his dedication, and the way he shares his artistry with the congregation. Roy is the kind of man with whom you can form a genuine connection. His creativity and love for the church is inspiring and captivating.
One day, during coffee hour, Roy asked me to come up to the sanctuary. He pointed out the chalice going across the wall and asked me if it would be more beautiful in stained glass. Over the next few months, Roy and I brainstormed ways to create a stained-glass window. His vision was to catch the sunlight and project it along the sanctuary wall.
After he explained his idea, I wondered if I was in over my head. But Roy believed I had the talent and conviction to help him fulfill his dream. Over the next few months, Roy and I worked together on the piece’s size, shape, and colors. Then, I set out to bring his vision to life.
It took me several months to finish the piece. When it was complete, we hung it in the sanctuary, but it didn’t quite look right. The sun didn’t reflect the colors or shapes we expected. Roy tried painting the background black. We hung it in a window, but it still didn’t work. I then asked myself, “What does our church stand for?”
I set aside the original piece and wondered how to honor Roy’s original work. I chose glass that would block all the light around the chalice. I selected colors and glass that would showcase our welcoming community. The final piece was a rainbow of colors, symbolizing our acceptance of all people in our community. It took four of us and a very tall ladder to hang, adjust, and position it so it could cascade colors across the wall.
Every time I see the reflection on the wall, whether in our video broadcasts or in person, I feel a sense of joy. I am honored to have been part of the beauty it has brought to our community. And I am humbled that Roy included me on this journey.