Integon Proudly Presents...
Historic Trinity Lutheran Church
This is a reproduction of an original painting bv Edward Swaim commissioned bv Integon Insurance for Christmas 1997.
31st in a series of churches chosen for their significance
to the friends of Integon Insurance.
It was Autumn past, 1850, when the Spirit of God descended upon a framed
wooden chapel on Lamed Street, near Rivard,
in a town called Detroit.
Finding favor in the souls of pastors Rev. G. Shaller, H. Frick, A. Wuestermann,
J. A. Huegli, H.C.F. Otte, G. T. Otte, the Spirit of Heaven guided these faithful
followers through the birth of the
Mother Church of Detroit Lutheranism.
Through the eyes, hands, and feet of hundreds - devoted through art, music,
and sculpture - The Almighty blessed the tiny frame chapel to become a pillar
of history - Trinity Lutheran Church - a testament to His Majesty.
Whose parapets serve as daily reminders, living stone covenants with Judges,
Saints, Martyrs and Confessors of the Faith from Autumns past.
Faces, words and deeds of Moses, Aaron, Gideon, Hur, St. Matthew, Mark,
Luke, John, Virgin Mother of Mary, Luther, St. Boniface, St. Athanasius,
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About the Artist
Edward Swaim lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he has enjoyed a
professional career in graphic arts and design for over 20 years. A native of
nearby Thomasville, Ed has been painting since childhood and completed his
education at the Harris Advertising School of Art in Nashville, Tennessee.
Today, Ed is devoted to painting his favorite subjects of rural scenes, nature,
wildlife, and historic homes using watercolors and acrylic. His award-winning
work can be seen throughout North Carolina. His most recent work, "Old Well"
is on display at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Limited edition
prints can be purchased through CES Watercolors by calling 788-0439
Ed deftly captures the strong gothic character of the Trinity Lutheran Church in
Detroit, Michigan, the corporate home of GMAC.
I,
Gustavus Adolphus, and the many who went before,
memories seared forever in our hearts.
Whose inside walls of oak, cream and grey colored marble, altars of granite,
limestone, and metal, affirm the inspired genius of
16th Century Pier and Clerestory Gothic Cathedrals.
Whose glorious stained glass windows depicting the Vine and the Branches of
the Savior, The life of the Church, stained faced narratives of disciples and
apostles, a belief that would not rest, looking unto Christ to portray the one
Truth: "Unto Him shall the gathering of the people be."
Now, in its 147th Autumn, Trinity Lutheran stands as none other but the House
of God, The Gate to Heaven beckoning all who yet enter, leave not it?,portals
without prayer to God for thyself, for those who minister, and for those who
worship here - for Autumns not yet past.
...Nat In/in, II 11/1/97
(4) INTEGON
; http://www.lntegon.com
You may obtain a free H"x14" reprint by writing Employee/Community Relations, Integon, P.O. Box 3199, Winston-Salem, NC 27102-3199.
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