| The
impulse to worship is not confined within the vaulted ceiling and colored
windows of a church. There are places where the bounty of God’s
creation shines forth with such radiance that the humble heart is moved
to express its gratitude in prayer.And in some of those natural shrines,
mankind has seen ?t to build to provide the worshiper with a modest chapel
where we can satisfy our need to pray.
Dogwood Chapel portrays just such a spiritual
jewel within a setting of breathtaking natural beauty. A graceful
footpath leads us to the
door of a modest chapel, lodged within the shade of an overarching,
flowering dogwood tree. Even if we are unfamiliar with the legends
that link the dogwood to the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord,
we cannot help but recognize that this tree with its lavish white blossoms
is a sign of God’s sheltering grace, and His abiding
gift of love.
Dogwood Chapel is my expression of gratitude
for the abundant beauty of God’s creation. Just as some nameless
congregation was moved to erect their chapel here, I was moved to
paint the scene so that
I could return to it in prayer and gratitude. I hope that you will
return to Dogwood Chapel in those times when you need to sooth your
weary spirit.
-Thomas Kinkade |
