Rev. Vicky's Message August 21, 2025

I’m sure many of you have sometimes wondered about our beautiful wood sculpture hanging on the back wall of the pulpit. This past week, one of our UMB members, Colleen Pritchett, asked if I could provide an explanation of its meaning and who the artist was. So thank you Colleen. Here is my best answer.

To be honest – I had to do a little digging to find the artist’s name. But I knew we were FaceBook friends and so searched my friends list and found him -  Arthur Junker.

Arthur and his wife, Marie, were members of our community during the early years. They were self-described “first century Christians” meaning they strived to emulate the teachings of Jesus in their lives – and thus resonated with our own UMB perspective of “following the teachings OF Jesus, but not so much those ABOUT him.”

Arthur was an amazing woodworker and was intrigued with the Unity Wings – creating multiple versions (in multiple sizes) that he donated to the bookstore to sell. Many of our long-time members likely have one of his creations in their homes.

One Sunday morning, Arthur shared that he had a surprise gift for us after the service, and brought what is now our altar sculpture into the church in two pieces, which he assembled and mounted on the wall. It hasn’t been moved since (though I have had to straighten it a few times). He shared that the design had been inspired by Rory, and the entwining of his Native American heritage and Unity – represented in the wings that capture both the original Unity wings and the thunderbird of indigenous peoples – with the circle representing Mother Earth with mountains above and waters flowing below – connecting heaven and earth.  Every time I look at these beautiful wings I think of Rory. 

Thank you Arthur – we are truly blessed, Rev. Vicky