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Architects for the Zumbro
Church Complex were Thorsen Brom Brocher and Snyder Associates
of Waterloo, Iowa. Design consultants were Charles and Marjorie
Pohlmann of Minneapolis. The general contractor was the Floyd
Larson Construction Company of Rochester. From the initial sketches
to the present time ,there has been concern for design continuity
in architecture and furnishings. Visitors, as well as members,
are encouraged to use this information in order to gain a deeper
appreciation for the rich symbolism that makes this building such
a strong witness to Christian faith.
Cross of Reconciliation
This 22' tall exterior red symbol rises out of the large planter
at the north side of the church. This exterior cross highlights
Zumbro's vital ministry to the Rochester community. When stationary
and aligned the circles speak of the "gathered church"
assembled to hear the word, receive the sacraments and thus to
be strengthened for ministry. The circles in motion signify "the
scattered church" a reminder of the call to be healing and
reconciling influence in the community and the world.
Seasonal Banners
Large banners corresponding to the church year are hung at the
narthex window of the main entrance. At that location and illuminated
at night, they provide a strong visual statement to all those
who pass by regarding the church's ministry in the community.
Bronze Figure of
the Crucified Christ
Inside the narthex at the main entrance is a bronze open cross
revealing the Christ suspended. As worshipers enter and leave,
the sculpture emphasizes the Message of Reconciliation which God
has already accomplished through the ministry of Christ. The sculpture
was done by Charles Gagnon.
Chancel Theme Statement
Always before the gathered congregation is the powerful statement
in red letters above the chancel beam "God was in Christ
reconciling the World to Himself." Taken from II Corinthians
5:19, this text is a constant reminder of Zumbro's mission - "To
heal the broken."
Band of Reconciliation
The red color from the exterior mobile continues in a band within
the sanctuary that surrounds the congregation. The open band,
at the front of the raw concrete beam above the chancel, testifies
that the Reconciling work begun in Christ must continue.
Communion Rail
From another vantage point, however, the circle is closed as the
deep red cushions around the altar rail complete the band. Communicants
face the congregation as they kneel. Reconciliation has its greatest
impact at the point where believers recognize one another as members
of the body of Jesus Christ.
Baptismal Font
A natural cement column with a hand-crafted stoneware bowl, located
in the middle of the center aisle, acts as a constant visual reminder
of the event which initiates the Christian life. The location
of the font makes it possible for the entire congregation to act
as baptismal witnesses surrounding each new child of God.
Processional Cross
The stained glass in the cross makes this a very distinctive,
movable element which focuses attention on the saving work of
Jesus Christ. The processional cross symbolized the discipleship
that each Christian is to bear in the world.
Altar Table and
Pulpit
By design and purpose these furnishings are open and simple. The
color focuses on their special liturgical use. The table serves
the community for the celebration of the Lord's Supper. Stoneware,
designed and crafted by Oriet Lahmers, stresses that God's grace
comes to us in earthen vessels.
Chancel Candles
Clustered to concentrate light in one place, the candles symbolize
Jesus Christ, the Light of the World. Two of the candles are removable
as torches, carried in procession at communion worship and on
festival days.
Crown of Thorns
Hanging over the gathered congregation is a powerful reminder
of the price God paid to make reconciliation possible. The dark
thorns represent Christ's suffering and death while the crown
speaks of his victory and resurrection, a victory his followers
share.
Aeolian-Skinner
Pipe Organ
The organ in the main sanctuary was built in Germany. It's specifications
include 38 stops and 52 ranks of pipes. Three divisions of the
organ, Great, Swell and Pedal, are in the wood reflecting case
which is located freestanding in the balcony. A fourth division,
the Ruckpositiv, extends from the balcony above the congregation.
The Zumbro Chapel
Adjacent to the nave, the chapel serves as overflow for the main
sanctuary. With seating for 70 worshipers, it also provides a
setting for the weekly Service of Healing and for small weddings
and funerals. The chapel banners continue the reconciliation theme.
The faceted glass window conveys a feeling of motion with attention
drawn to the large mass of light colored glass in the center.
Our healing ministry centers Jesus Christ, the Light of the World,
and then radiates out into all the world.
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