This baptismal font was donated in 1902 when the present sanctuary was first dedicated. The first wood framed sanctuary was struck by lightning. The grandson of the family that donated the font is still living and tells that the font was likely fabricated in Chicago. After the fire, the congregation decided to build the present church building in brick.
The IHS on the Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran Church baptismal font is a monogram for the name Jesus Christ. “Jesus said, Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.”
I am baptized. Baptized as an infant, my appreciation continues to grow for the power and peace that come daily through baptism into the name of Jesus. And I’ve had the joy and privilege of baptizing infants, children, youth and adults. Jesus Christ commanded His Church to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. I’m so thankful to daily remember what God has done for me in baptism. And I’d be glad to share the joys of baptism with you.
Baptism is more than what it appears; more than mere external water poured. In baptism, by the power of God’s Word combined with the water, baptism creates new life, connecting the baptized to the baptism of Jesus, His death and His resurrection from the dead. Baptism is a gift of God that is received through faith. Baptism brings a person into the family of God, cleansing, renewing, refreshing, and restoring the spirit that confesses sin and holds on to the promises that are in Jesus Christ. As water is necessary for life, so baptism is God’s way of bringing life to all who believe.
This font was not used from 1993 until 2005. When preparing for the 125th Anniversary of the congregation, the pastor noticed the font tucked in the corner of a storage room in three separate sections. The chairman of the trustees mentioned that the font had become unstable and was not placed into the sanctuary after a recent building expansion. With the congregation anniversary only three weeks away, a local marble fabricating company was gracious and to restore the font and it was rededicated at the 125th Anniversary Celebration Service in 2005. This restoration was possible through advances in resins that are able to be matched in color and become as hard as stone. The restoration and re-dedication of the baptismal font brought great joy and celebration to the congregation and especially to the grandson of the donor.
Each time the baptismal font is used for a baptism into the name of Jesus, there is great joy not only on earth but also in heaven as the angels rejoice over one sinner who repents and is baptized.
James Kroonblawd 