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Architectural Significance of Gloria Dei
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Culture of Gloria Dei Gloria Dei is a Church that continues to create the same sense of belonging for its Lutheran members today, as it did for Swedish-Americans in the 20th century. Today the culture of the Church is very much similar to the past; it is a community more so than simply a place of worship. While talking with the current pastor, Santiago Rodriguez, it is clear that he embodies the spirit of love, community, and diversity in his church. He and the members of the Church continue to pride themselves in Gloria Dei as an immigrant church. However, now the Church is no longer just a church for Swedish-Americans. Pastor Rodriquez is from the Dominican Republic and many members are from equally diverse backgrounds, which the Church prides itself in. Some examples of places members are from include over 21 countries such as: Angola, Liberia, Tanzania, Portugal, Germany, Haiti, Jamaica, Britain, Bolivia, Guatemala, Mexico, etc.
To welcome a diverse group of individuals, Pastor Rodriguez offers bilingual services in both English and Spanish. The language is not the only aspect that makes the Church’s services so unique. Gloria Dei prides itself on incorporating music during ceremonies which furthers the Church’s uplifting and joyful culture. The Church has musical instruments such as drums, keyboards, and guitars. It is clear when one walks into the Church that by the strings of lights warming up the room, beautiful white candles, and the musical instruments placed center in the room, that this Church has a very unique experience to its ceremonies. The Church welcomes community and love for one another. Church members say that they welcome “all who come no matter how different they are from us, for we deeply understand that it is our uniqueness, our stories and our struggles that bring us to this church” ("Gloria Dei Lutheran Church”). Unique celebrations the Church offers highlights the sense of connectedness that the Church wants its members to feel as a church community as well as in their own lives. During the month of February the Church celebrates love and companionship by having a night for couples to celebrate with themselves and one another with dance, music, and fun. Gloria Dei intertwines its faith with a celebration of life, love, and interconnectedness among all human beings. |