It was rather startling when I first saw this image painted on the ceiling of the historic church, located near where I live.
The image is called the "Eye of Providence", the all-seeing eye of God. If you would like to read more about it, click
HERE.
Like so many places I explore, it starts with a drive down a country back road. I can see the church steeple on my right, as I approach the top of the hill.
The first Czech immigrant, Matthew Novak, settled in this area in 1855. Many followed from Czechoslovakia and some from Germany.
Just before I reach the church, there is a welcome sign. Over the years, the size of this community has dwindled to about 25 people. But, when they celebrate homecoming, more than 5,000 come for the picnic and celebration.
Approaching from the back side, you can see the beautiful stone work.
Each window and door has the arched shape with stone framing it.
In 1895, Gottfried Flury, a Swiss-born artist, was commissioned to paint the inside of the church.
If you look closely, on the right side of the photo, you can see the Eye of Providence in the highest part of the ceiling.
It is truly a magnificent sight to see. The tongue-in-groove wood ceiling, painted a sky-blue, is still vibrant. Every detail was hand-painted by the artist.
His work depicts lush tropical palms, vines and flowers, creating an earthly paradise.
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The view of the choir loft reveals the same hand-painted work of the artist.
Each stained glass window has a different symbol in the center.
Dedication names are written in the Czech language.
The first time I saw this church is when I wrote the post about the Veteran's Day Celebration. Click
HERE, to read the post. It was a very emotional day, photographing the veterans, hearing the patriotic music, and the 3 vintage airplane fly-over.
The churches I write about are not just about our history. They remain a place of worship, with services held each week.
Their doors are unlocked during the day...that one may drop by just to take refuge from a busy life.
Meggie Mac