If you’re new to our parish, you may not be particularly interested in the architecture or symbols found in our church.  And, if you’re a long-time parishioner, your attention has likely shifted from what surrounds you to what is happening within you. (And that’s very good!)  In either case, the next time you enter our chapel, take a few minutes to study the space around you.  It’s trying to tell you what St. John the Baptist Parish all is about.

At first glance, our chapel ceiling with its wooden planks and support beams may look like something found in any other church. 

Look again.   Start by standing at the main entry of the church.  Your gaze will gradually move from the pews to some exquisitely curved wooden beams that brace the ceiling.  From there, your eyes will be drawn to a beautiful wooden crucifix and the tabernacle on the altar immediately below.

Take a final look.  This time concentrate on the ceiling and those supporting beams.  Do they look familiar?   Maybe.  Maybe not. 

What is that?   Can it be a capsized ship?   . . . Complete with a center keel?  Yep. That’s it.

While this watery image seems out of place in a part of the country best known for its mountains and grasslands, this look is purposeful.  It serves as a reminder that each of us will experience times in life when we feel spiritually storm-tossed, battered, and, occasionally, sunken by our sins or circumstances. 

Our parish story is further enriched by our patron, St. John the Baptist.  This cousin of Jesus, this evangelist, this martyr, set in motion the most extraordinary of sacraments.  As we reflect on his life, we are transported to the shores of the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized, where the Holy Spirit made His appearance, and, yes, where God the Father voiced His blessing.

Water – the key symbol of Baptism and new life – is an olive branch from God.  It is a reminder that He loves us and wants to return us to our proper status as His children.  Today, more than ever, we need to Savor the message that God is here for us and will help us when we ask.

Water.  Our parish roots are deeply embedded in St. John’s call to be baptized.  It links us to our pioneering forefathers and parish history. 

Water – quite literally – meant life or death to those who traversed the Great Plains to settle here.  They knew more than most how critical it is to maintaining life.  Equally important, their rugged experience taught them that “family” extended to neighbors and those in need.   Finally, in what can only be called “a delicious irony,” some crossed harsh, dry regions of the West in wagons called “prairie schooners.” 

Living Water is what we offer at St. John’s.   A path to new life is what you’ll find here.  And our family of seasoned pioneers look forward to traveling with you.