Remembering the gift of glass . . . Beauty and reverence reflected in stained glass
by Karin L. Nauber
Nearly 200 people attended a dedication ceremony in 1975 at the United Methodist Church in Clarissa when the Late Mrs. Henry J. (Elaine) Schopf made a donation of 16 stained glass windows to the church.
She made the donation in memory of both her last husband, Dr. H. J. Schopf and herself.
Dr. Schopf began his career as a dentist in 1924 in the city of Clarissa after graduating from the University of Minnesota Dental College.
Dr. Schopf served the community for nearly 49 years and was noted to be one of the state of Minnesota’s finest dentists. He was written about in many large publications.
The Schopf’s lived in one of the homes across the street from the church to the west.
He and his wife Elaine were both active members of the United Methodist Church.
It is no wonder then that such a gift of 16 beautiful stained glass windows was made to the church in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Schopf after his death.
He passed away April 14, 1973. The dedication of the stained glass windows was held on May 18, 1975.
During the dedication service, Reverend Delton Krueger, superintendent of the United Methodist Churches said, “These windows are a gift of love to the church for the honor and glory of God and as you view the wondrous beauty of each, you are reminded of the birth, life and the resurrection of Christ.”
This gift of love continues to shine its beauty and message of love, hope and peace today, 46 years after their installation. . .
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