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We have a cross or crucifix to remind us of the perfect atonement which Christ has wrought. It is in that cross that the secret of our salvation is to be found.
The base of our altar is divided into three panels. The sheaf of wheat reminds us of the bread of Holy Communion, of which our Savior has promised: "This is My body". The panel with the cluster of grapes is symbolic of the wine of the Sacrament: "This is My blood". The center panel monogram "IHS" is the first three letters of the Greek word for "Jesus".
On either side of the altar are vases for flowers, many times memorial gifts for loved ones. On the outside are the candelabra reminds us of Him who is the light of the world. The missal stand holds a copy of the Holy Scriptures. A fair linen covers the top of the altar. The altar hanging, of rich brocade, changes colors to mark the seasons of the church calendar.
On the throne of the altar is one of the greatest prizes of Bethel, a wood carving of the Last Supper, a copy of the famous original by Leonardo Da Vinci. This was a gift of the "Sorosis Women's Society". This carving was executed by Mr. Alois Long, who came to the United States from Germany, from the famous Oberammergau Colony of Passion Play fame.
The scene of this carving takes place the night of the Passover Supper. In a small upper room, in a house in Jerusalem, Jesus, surrounded by His disciples is breaking the bread of their farewell meal. Christ is the center of all Interest. He has just said "One of you will betray me". Love, terror, grief and amazement find expression in the cry of his disciples, "Lord, is it I?" The disciples sit in four groups of three each drawn away from Christ. Each disciple is expressing his feeling in his own way, each gesture representing an individual type of character.
John, the Beloved, at Jesus' right hand, sits in broken-hearted silence. Impulsive Peter leans forward, touching John's shoulder urging him to ask Jesus who the traitor is. Behind Peter is Andrew with upraised hands, then James the younger, and Bartholomew leaning forward.
To the left of Jesus is Thomas with raised finger, seeming to say "Lord, is it I?" In front of him, James, the elder, expresses in face and gesture his horror of such a thought. Philip, bends over his companions with deep regret in his face. The last group includes Matthew, Thaddeus, and Simeon.
But there can be no doubt as to the real betrayer. In contrast to the gentle features of John is the dark, cunning face of Judas, who clutches the money bag and fearfully looks at Jesus hoping that he will not disclose him.
We are touched by the face of the Savior, sad, submissive, forgiving, as though he were hopeful that Judas might even yet repent his action before it is too late.
Above the wood carving is a beautiful portrayal of "The Ascension" by the Swedish-American artist, Olaf Grafstrom. This huge canvas was purchased by the congregation in 1902 at a cost of $250. The subject is Luke 24:51 "And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He parted from them, and was carried up into heaven".
Mr. Grafstrom was head of the art department of Augustana College in Rock Island IL for many years. His fame as a painter of altar pictures spread and his work appeared in scores of churches throughout the Augustana Synod.
Out altar, considered in its entirety, portrays practically the entire story of Christ's sacrifice and victory. May it lead us all to have a richer and deeper experience of God's saving love!
