The Baptismal Font – Out of the Waters

This article originally appeared in the November 2009 issue of The Epigram.

The Baptismal Font – Out of the Waters By Mary Kaye Jacobs

When we enter the Gathering Area of Epiphany, we begin to hear the waters of the Baptismal Font. The font is meant to remind us of a tomb, with its rough stone exterior and shape. Christ died then rose from the tomb, and we go down into the water and rise from the waters in Baptism. The font also calls to mind Moses and the rock that brought forth water and the dividing of the Red Sea to allow the escape of the Israelites from Egypt.

This font was created as part of the renovation of the church completed in 1988, when the Community Center and the plaza at the entrance to the church also were built. Architect Stow Chapman worked with Fr. Joe Graffis to design the renovation project, including the Baptismal Font. (Fr. Joe was pastor from 1981-1991.)

Those who think of Epiphany’s Worship Center as a contemporary design take note. A church in Rome, built in the 5th century, Santo Stefano Rotondo, was the inspiration for the design of Epiphany as an octagon, according to former pastor, Fr. Joe. It was former pastor Fr. Dick Fowler who directed the design and building of the Epiphany’s Worship Center.

So, when you walk past the long waters of the Baptismal font, remember its meaning, symbolism and appreciate all the thought and planning that went into its creation. And though the Worship Center seems contemporary to us, it’s based on very old designs.