A new stained glass window was installed at the entrance of Bethany’s Old Main building on Thursday, March 13, 2015. The Bethany High School classes of 1952 and 1953 donated funds to create and install the stained glass, which is titled “The Way of the Cross.” It depicts the life of Christ in the artwork with his birth, death on the cross, and resurrection. The classes donated the window in honor of their Bethany education, and to serve as a reminder to all the students, faculty, and staff that the College’s mission of the “One Thing Needful,” which is the saving Gospel of Christ, is at the center of a Bethany education.
Jake Krier, Manager of Alumni Relations, worked with the classes of ’52 and ’53 throughout the project.
“This has been an exciting project to see happen. There were many people involved, but everyone would agree this would not have been accomplished if it wasn’t for the leadership of Harold Burgdorf and Harold Theiste. These gentlemen were the drivers that kept us always going forward. We are so blessed to have so many alumni and friends that cherish their Bethany education, and support this college in so many ways. The Bethany High School classes of ’52 and ’53 showed us another example of that, by giving the College a gift that will symbolize that the “One Thing Needful” is at the center of everything that is taught on this campus,” said Krier.
Burgdorf explained how the project got off the ground at their 60th Class Reunion.
“The class decided that we’d like to create a memorial that would last through the ages. It was suggested that a stained glass window be installed, with the cooperation of the College and the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. The window would emphasize the birth, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ. The class of ‘53 also joyfully endorsed the project and elected to help raise funds for the project.”
Burgdorf says the project was special to him because the window gave the classes an opportunity to “visually emphasize the mission of Bethany Lutheran College” for all who visit the campus.
Bob Vogel from Stained Glass Studios in St. Peter, Minnesota, created and installed the window.