Tree Carving
Photo Courtesy of Wilton UMC/Iowa Conference
Iowa Annual Conference | June 30, 2025
The United Methodist Church of Wilton honored the late Rev. Steve Braudt’s artistic vision by transforming a dead ash tree in the church parking lot into a stunning carving of a dove and praying hands. Using Pastor Steve’s artwork for inspiration, the congregation worked with chainsaw artist Clint Henik to complete the project, creating a lasting tribute that invites the community to reflect on peace, hope, and faith.
The United Methodist Church of Wilton has transformed a once-dead ash tree into a powerful piece of art, honoring the creative spirit and ministry of the late Rev. Steve Braudt.
Years ago, the ash tree that shaded the corner of the church parking lot died from the emerald ash borer, like many across Wilton. Instead of removing the entire trunk, the church left 15 feet standing after Pastor Steve expressed his hope to carve the tree into a work of art.
“Steve had never done a tree carving before, but as an artist, he wanted to tackle it,” said Mark Knouse, lay leader at Wilton UMC. Steve even stripped the bark in preparation, but he passed away before he could begin the carving.
For a year, the bare trunk stood as the congregation wondered how to honor Pastor Steve’s vision. Eventually, the church decided to use memorial funds from Steve’s passing to complete the project in his memory. Inspired by a tree carving they saw at a local golf course, the congregation contacted the artist responsible, Clint Henik of Carve R Way in Mount Vernon, Iowa.
Henik used Pastor Steve’s artwork as inspiration—sketches filled with doves, open hands, and prayers—and brought the carving to life in just a day and a half.
“We sent him pictures of Steve’s drawings, and he came back with some ideas. He even used the natural branches to form the dove’s wings,” Knouse said.
The sculpture now depicts a dove of peace taking flight from praying hands, with the United Methodist cross and flame symbol carved at the base.
“The dove and the praying hands remind us of peace and prayer, two of the most important things we need in our lives today,” Knouse reflected. “Steve often wrote ‘peace’ at the bottom of his drawings, and this sculpture truly feels like him.”
Steve’s wife, Anne Lippincott, saw the sculpture for the first time while arriving for praise band rehearsal. “She was really excited about it,” Knouse shared, adding that she hugged Luke Thompson, the church member who coordinated the project, during worship to thank him for helping bring Steve’s vision to life. "This is wonderful, and Steve would be very happy!" she commented on the church's Facebook page.
The carving has quickly become a conversation piece in Wilton, with many community members stopping by to see it and commenting on the church’s Facebook page. “It’s been amazing to see the support, even from people who aren’t church members,” Knouse said. The local newspaper also plans to feature the carving, further sharing Steve’s legacy with the community.
Pastor Brian Channel, who began serving Wilton UMC in June, hopes to lead a dedication ceremony soon. “The congregation was very close to Steve, and this carving has brought us even closer,” Knouse said. “When people see it, they know it’s for Steve.”
The church invites the community to visit the sculpture at the south driveway and reflect on its message of peace, hope, and faith—a lasting tribute to a pastor whose creativity and compassion continue to inspire.
Liz Winders is communications director for the Iowa Annual Conference.