New window makes Weller auditorium more worshipful space

Weller Hall is not only home to Concordia’s administrative offices but to its campus chapel as well. The chapel has undergone several improvements in the past year, including the addition of a new altar, pulpit and baptismal font. Now, a vibrant stained glass window greets students and visitors from the front of the room.

The window was given as a gift by the children of Rev. Harvey and Carol Lange. Rev. Lange was a faculty member of Concordia’s theology department from 1964 to 1977.

Mark Anschutz, managing artist of The Center for Liturgical Art, and William Wolfram, professor emeritus in the art department, jointly designed the window and named it “Abundant Joy.” Colorful circles swirl outward from the center of the window in a spiral formation. The cross bars of the window frame form a cross in the center. The entire design hints of a universe revolving around the salvation of the cross.

The window was fabricated using primarily fragmented glass from other projects.  “What’s exciting to me is that God provided for this project. William gave time to work with us, the glass and materials were provided, and God sent us the donors,” Anschutz said.

Sophomore Evan Balleweg, helped with the windows construction and installation.  Balleweg plans on pursuing a career as a liturgical artist and was honored to be part of the process.

“I was eager to help with a project of this size” said Balleweg. “I had the opportunity to cut zinc and lead, solder, putty and clean windows as well as assist in the installation.

For Balleweg the highlight of the project came with the window’s installation. “The window is much more beautiful to see in the light rather than laying on a table. I feel blessed to have been able to play a role in its creation.”

Anschutz says the window should reflect joy and encourage people to be excited about worship. “We wanted to provide a worshipful space that looks toward the future. It’s the type of window that shows an out flowing of blessings from God. We hope it helps people be in the spirit to praise God.”