Splendor and majesty are before him;
    strength and glory are in his sanctuary.

Psalm 96:6

This morning is straight-up photography. The images are all engaging (in my mind) treatments of light and color.

I had not taken my camera to church in a couple of months, so I approached this opportunity as an exploration of the worship space and a way to communicate the sacredness of both the architecture and the design.

When my cousin Peter visited a couple of years back, he said he was struck by the beauty of our sanctuary. I responded that what had likely touched his spirit was the presence of 300 positive, enthusiastic people, worshipping God in unity of spirit. But now, seeing through the lens of pandemic, I have to agree that even “empty” (the church is full with God, regardless) WFPC is a beautiful worship space.

If you want to hear Rebekah’s message (and you do – 23:30), participate in The Lord’s Supper with us (it will nurture your soul), enjoy Katherine’s children’s message (always fun – 12:35), or listen to Karen’s piano anthem (powerful music – 20:00), then click on this link – February 7 at WFPC.

I have watched many approaches to offering worship on-line, and in consequence I value the attention to detail our AV team gives when it comes to the rich texture in terms of lighting, backdrop, camera angles, and design. Obviously this has evolved over time, and will continue to change, but I am convinced that a blank wall behind a preacher is – essentially – bad theology!

So my goal in these images has been to capture some of the light, texture, and deep context that serves as visual stimulation that not only engages our senses but invites our spirits into a sacred space.

I recommend the preaching, too! But this post is about light. Light and what I guess I am beginning to understand as “the theology of virtual space.”

In love, and because one aspect of love is God’s constant invitation into light and promise – DEREK