The American architect Louis Sullivan coined the phrase, Form Follows Function. Certainly this could be applied to the general design of the furnishings that we use in our worship space. The baptismal font and the altar are intended to be the two most central furnishings. It could be said of them that their form follows their function.
Like most furniture, the font and table need to function well, or they become obstacles.
Over the next four weeks in our Faith Formation time, we will spend some time exploring the function and form of font and table in our experience. We will also look beyond the furniture towards the meaning and mystery of the two sacraments that are associated with these furnishings.
The sacrament of Holy Baptism and the sacrament of Holy Communion are means of God's grace. They define, form, and sustain us as a community of faith. Individually we return to them for reminders of who we are as children of God. Collectively we are strengthened and empowered by Christ's presence in them as they equip us for mission beyond ourselves and into the world that God so loves.
I invite you to take the time over the next four weeks to explore this with me and your brothers and sisters in Christ. This would be an excellent opportunity to review and renew your faith and invite others to come and see the gifts of God full of grace, purpose and hope.
A cross-shaped Byzantine baptismal font
Avdat, Israel
Baptismal Font, St. Luke Lutheran Church
Chambersburg, PA
A Picture of a Baptismal Font
found on Google
St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church
Chambersburg, PA
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Washington DC
Christ the King Lutheran Church
Houston, Texas
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