Shadow and Symbolism

Gate Shadow, Saint John's Lutheran Church, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


In late afternoon, the shadow of this church's ironwork gate is cast upon the red doors and tiled porch. Many Episcopal and Lutheran churches paint their doors red as a symbol of sanctuary, both physical and spiritual. The color is symbolic of the Holy Spirit, the blood of Christ and the Passion. You can go to just about any town or city in the USA and find a church with red painted doors.