Inspiring Stained Glass Windows

Before the invention of the printing press, books were rare, and images had to be drawn in by hand.  So, people did not learn from school as is the current norm.  It was the obligation of the clergy to teach religion, but how?  This was done by preaching from the pulpit, and by picturing many Biblical and Saints’ stories.  And, the best place to tell these stories in graphical form was the church, or in the cathedral.  Here, large stained glass windows could portray a single scene, or a cluster of related scenes.  So, the stained glass window was a teaching tool.

Often, a round stained glass window, especially one over the altar, would signify Heaven, with scenes of angels, sometimes clouds, and often some depiction of God.  These were atop the church, and allowed the scene to fall onto the congregation.

My favorite panel style stained glass window is the one from Notre Dame Cathedral.  I like the multitude of colors and the detail.  My favorite round stained glass window is the one in Bethlehem, in the Church of Saint Catherine.  Of course, hese are from the list provided.  My really favorite windows were in Saint Mary’s Assumption Church, which was in my parish when I grew up. They all fascinated me, and there were many.  Of course, you may have other preferences.  Let’s just say there are many that are worth viewing.

Stained glass windows, especially older works where the glass was thick and the colors were rich, when illuminated give a special feeling of reverence.  The light patterns falling on the surfaces within the church cannot be painted, they must be from the windows, changing in intensity as the clouds pass beneath the sun, and moving with the sun’s movements.  

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