Sacred Light: Reflections from Lake Park Lutheran Church

I love photographing sacred spaces. There is something about the way light filters through vibrant stained-glass windows, casting shifting colors onto the warm wooden pews. The textures of aged wood, the quiet presence of tapestries, the gentle flicker of candlelight—all of it contributes to a profound sense of stillness and reflection.

Sunbeams through stained-glass in the chapel at Lake Park Lutheran Church on the East Side of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

These places hold echoes of prayers whispered over generations, and in their silence, I find peace and comfort.

While I haven’t photographed many churches, I feel especially drawn to capturing the quiet beauty of this one. As the Sexton of Lake Park Lutheran Church, I have the unique opportunity to witness its many moods—the soft glow of morning light in the sanctuary, the hush of an empty chapel in the afternoon, the way dawn and dusk settles in through the stained glass. There is a reverence in these moments, and I strive to translate that into my images.

Lake Park Lutheran Church, located on the East Side of Milwaukee, has stood since 1912, a place of gathering, reflection, and community. The chapel, a later addition in 1950, adds another layer to its history. The congregation’s roots are intertwined with Milwaukee’s past, including connections to some of the city’s prominent brewing families. Yet beyond its history, what draws me most is the feeling of timelessness and community within its walls—a space that has welcomed generations, offering sanctuary and solace.

Through my photography, I hope to share that sense of quiet grace, inviting the viewer to pause, breathe, and perhaps feel, even for a moment, the tranquility I experience within these walls.

See all of the Lake Park Lutheran photos here.

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By Scott Norris

Emotion. Mood. Feelings. This is what I capture through my photographs. Whether it is landscapes, architectural elements, still life, or macros - it is a very personal journey as my own fears, triumphs, beliefs, and shortcomings are exposed with each photo. In the end, it is all about telling compelling stories.