Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church
Sacred Art
Professor William Bukowski of Bethany Lutheran College created nine commissioned paintings depicting the life of Jesus as reflected in our liturgical calendar.
See Them in Person
Photographs only go so far — these paintings were commissioned to be seen within the life of the church. Join us for a Divine Service and witness the collection firsthand in Trinity's sanctuary, where each piece hangs in its liturgical place.
The Nativity of Our Lord
Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus in the manger. The ox and the donkey are a nod to Isaiah 1:3, and the rod, staff, and lamb connect Jesus to His role as shepherd and sacrificial lamb.
The Boy Jesus in the Temple
The young Jesus teaches among the temple scholars — "He increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God" — as Mary and Joseph find Him in dialogue with the teachers.
The Baptism of Our Lord
John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River as the heavens open, the Spirit descends as a dove, and the Father declares His pleasure. This painting hangs in the chancel near the baptismal font.
The Calling of the First Disciples
Fishermen at the Sea of Galilee receive Jesus' call to apostolic ministry — the miraculous catch, and Peter, Andrew, James, and John's decision to follow Christ.
The Transfiguration of Our Lord
Jesus radiates divine light, flanked by Moses and Elijah, observed by Peter, James, and John: "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
The Lord's Supper
The first painting commissioned for the collection, hanging near the altar. It commemorates the institution of Communion, drawn from the biblical account in 1 Corinthians 11.
The Crucifixion of Our Lord
Jesus's final moments, and the varied responses of those who witnessed them — His sacrificial death "for the sins of the whole world."
The Resurrection of Our Lord
The risen Christ, with lilies and flowers symbolizing new creation — connecting Christ's resurrection to the future resurrection and eternal life of believers.
The Ascension of Our Lord
Jesus ascends with hands raised in blessing, per Luke's account — emphasizing joy and Christ's ongoing presence with believers gathered in worship.