Reflections of His Design
Windows of the West Semitransept by Mark E. Bailey
Walking into church from the narthex at the north entrance, one will notice an area toward the front that separates the sanctuary from the nave. This crossing is called the transept, which is split into east and west semitransepts. Each side contains two stained glass windows that showcase important figures from the history of Christianity.
On the left side of the west semitransept is the Apostles Window, dedicated in 1958. The term "Apostle" means one sent away, or messenger. At the apex is Saint John the Baptist before the wavy symbol of water, representing his ministry of baptism, repentance, and spiritual cleansing.
Below him are Saint Peter on the left and Saint Paul on the right. Saint Peter holds the Keys of the Kingdom: one gold, one silver, representing heaven and earth. Saint Paul, a prophet of the Gentiles, is known as one of the most influential disciples of Jesus. Here he holds what is called the Sword of the Spirit, also known as the Word of God.
In the panels below are Saint Matthew and Saint Thomas. Saint Matthew is seated as a tax collector, controversial in that a sinner dined with Jesus. But in Mark 2:17, Jesus says: "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Author of the first Gospel, Matthew was called by God to convince his fellow countrymen that the Messiah had come in the form of Jesus. Next to him is Saint Thomas, seated with the carpenter's square and a spear, which represents his doubt and disbelief when told of Jesus's resurrection. He is known to have said "My Lord and My God!" in John 20:28 when Jesus appeared to him, convincing him to finally believe. He is perhaps the only Apostle who preached of God outside the Roman Empire.
The bottom panels show Saint James on the left and Saint John next to him. Saint James has a staff, gourd, and satchel to represent the many missions he went on. Saint John holds a goblet with a serpent emerging from it, representing the legend of the poison cup from which he drank without harm.
Beneath the Apostles are two of the four traditional Evangelist symbols: the winged man for Saint Matthew and the winged lion for Saint Mark. These can also be found on the turret near the cloister outside.
On the right side of the west semitransept is the Prophets Window, also dedicated in 1958. Prophets were in contact with God and served as intermediaries with humanity. The great prophet, Moses, is seen at the very top. He is holding the Ten Commandments and is flanked by mountains, representing stability and loftiness.
Below him are Elijah on the left and Isaiah on the right. Elijah, shown with a traveler's staff, was a prophet who warned Israel of doom if they should continue to follow Baal instead of God. Isaiah, holding a coal of fire in tongs that an angel had given him, is represented as a prophet who warned kings to trust in God to save the country and not rely on foreign powers.
Below Elijah and Isaiah are Ezekiel, with a "mystical wheel" of divine unity, and Jeremiah, whose chains represent Judah in captivity. Ezekiel's wheel of divine unity, with arrows that represent active and passive forces, show how the rebellious and self-righteous actions of the Jews toward God led to the destruction of Jerusalem. Jeremiah, the "Weeping Prophet," was arrested and called a traitor for opposing the kings by speaking only of God. He prophesied the capture of Jerusalem.
The bottom-most prophets are Hosea and Amos. Hosea, known as the "Prophet of Love," holds the scroll of prophecy. He is known for preaching God's patience and pardon. Amos, holding a pastoral staff, is also called the "Prophet of Righteousness." He warned of judgment when accused of treason for speaking against the sins of the idol-worshipping nation.
Beneath the prophets are the other two of the four traditional Evangelist symbols. The winged ox of Saint Luke represents the sacrifice of Jesus, and the winged eagle of Saint John emphasizes the divine inspiration that swiftly soars. The eagle in the air is equal to the lion on the earth.
The windows in the transept are but four of many windows in the church that tell important and ageless stories about the loving message of Christ. Seen all around the nave are windows that make one pause for reflection and feel inspired by God's light shining through. The meaning and symbolism behind them are truly eternal, powerful, and inspirational, and will be joyfully explored in future articles.
Until then, most of the information related here can be found in the book Aiming In His Direction by Charlotte L. Daniels, which chronicles the symbolism behind all the art in the church. It also includes many illustrations by the author, creating a visual history as rich as the text. One can find and read it in the church library.
HOLY WEEK: Windows of the West Aisleby Mark E. Bailey
Walking through the sanctuary, one cannot help but feel inspired at the beautifully intricate stained glass windows on either side. The four windows on the east aisle represent the life and ministries of Christ, while the four on the west portray the last week on earth of Our Lord Jesus. Together, these eight windows depict the eight Beatitudes, or the solemn blessings that marked the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, the collection of sayings and teachings of Jesus that some believe form the central principles of Christianity.
Above and woven through all eight windows are flames that recall Pentecost; stars that represent eternal steadfastness; angelic choirs that express praise and adoration; the quatrefoil, four equal parts that represent the four Gospels; and the trefoil, three equal parts that symbolize the Holy Trinity. Looking throughout the church, one will also see quatrefoils and trefoils in stone around windows, wood carvings, and in the metal around certain light fixtures. It is easy to spend time admiring all the images and their symbolism throughout the Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church.
The first window on the north side of the west aisle to be discussed is the Saviour of the World Window. Dedicated in 1956, this window tells the story of Palm Sunday. In the center panel, Jesus is seen looking over the city from the Mount of Olives in sadness, his arms extended in appeal. Multitudes of nations praising Him with palm branches in brotherhood are seen in the panel to the left, and in the right panel are multitudes of other nations praising Him with palm branches in peace. Above all panels are the four Latin crosses radiating from the center, which represents the spirit of Christ spreading to the four corners of the earth. Next to them the angelic choir plays the stringed instrument known as the viol, and bells. Below the panels is the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing the fifth Beatitude: "Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy" (Matthew 5:7).
The second window down the west aisle, the Bethany Window, was dedicated in 1955. In the center panel, Christ is seated in a home in the village of Bethany where He found peace and love during Holy Week. Mary sits at His feet in devotion and Martha stands, holding food that she prepared for Him. The cross above Him tells that all windows of the west aisle depict events from His last week on earth.
The panel on the left displays women of piety: Eunice with a small child in her arms; Phoebe; and Priscilla. In the panel to the right are women of good works: Dorcas with a garment she made for the poor; Lydia of Thyatira; and Joanna with a basket of spices and ointments. Above all the panels, the angels play the triangle and cymbal for Christ. Below the panels is the lily, the symbol of purity for the sixth Beatitude: "Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God" (Matthew 5:8).
The third window down the west aisle is the Upper Room Window. Dedicated in 1955, the three panels of this window depict Christ on the last night of His earthly life. The center panel depicts Christ standing in the Upper Room at midnight on Maundy Thursday, the Holy day that commemorates the Last Supper before the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Above Him is the lamp of faith, glowing on His uplifted face. Six of the disciples are seen in the left panel, including Peter in green and John in red, suggesting self-doubt that one of the disciples would betray Him. The other six are seated in an attentive mood in the panel to the right, with Judas wearing violet and holding the bag of the apostles's treasury, asking if he is the betrayer.Above all panels are the five crosses of the modified Cross Cantonee, also known as the Jerusalem Cross, which symbolize the five wounds of Christ. On either side angels are seen holding wheat and grapes, symbols of the sacrament. Below the three panels is a broken sword, symbol for the seventh Beatitude: "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God" (Matthew 5:9).
The last window of the west aisle, the Prayer Window, was dedicated in 1952. The center of three panels depicts Jesus, flanked by Cypress and Olive trees, kneeling in the Garden of Gethsemane, the olive orchard where He prayed before His crucifixion. One can see a chalice at the top of the panel, which signifies the Holy Grail of consecration.
Angels can be seen in the left panel coming to provide Jesus strength, and in the right are Peter, James, and John, Jesus's disciples asleep in the garden. Even though Jesus asked them to stay awake to pray and keep watch to avoid temptation, they were human and weak. Judas Iscariot soon arrived and arrested him.
Above all three panels are angels and censers, or vessels made for burning incense, representing prayer before the Lord. At the bottom of the panel is a crown, signifying the eighth and final Beatitude: "Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you...for great is your reward in heaven" (Matthew 5:11-12).
The west aisle windows of the sanctuary are but four of many windows that tell important and ageless stories about the loving message of Christ. Seen all around the nave are windows that make one pause for reflection and feel inspired by God's light shining through. The meaning and symbolism behind them are truly eternal, powerful, and inspirational, and will be joyfully explored in future articles.
Until then, most of the information related here can be found in the book Aiming In His Direction by Charlotte L. Daniels, which chronicles the symbolism behind all the art in the church. It also includes many illustrations by the author, creating a visual history as rich as the text. One can find and read it in the church library.
Windows of the East Semi-transept
by Mark E. Bailey
Walking into the nave from the narthex at the north (Observatory Avenue) entrance, one will notice that the sanctuary is built like a cross. The nave is separated from the chancel by what is called the transept. Each side, known as a semi-transept, contains two stained glass windows that showcase important figures from the history of Christianity.
On the north side of the east semi-transept is the Great Christian Women Window. Dedicated in 1957, this window displays seven female saints who each carry importance for not only Christianity, but Methodism as well. At the apex is Saint Cecilia, who was martyred for her Christian faith in ancient Rome. Known as the patron saint of music, she can be seen holding a small hand organ.
The two panels below display Monica, on the left, and Susanna Wesley, on the right. Saint Monica, the mother of Augustine of Hippo, one of the greatest Fathers of the Church, was a powerful guiding force of Christianity as she raised him. Susanna is known as the mother of Methodism, since her two sons Charles and John are credited with founding the Methodist movement. Here she is touched by a dove of the Holy Spirit.
The next two panels below are of Priscilla Alden and a representative Pilgrim mother. Priscilla, seen spinning wool or flax, was one of the notable Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony. Her counterpart, a Pilgrim mother shown caring for her child, exemplifies the importance of raising children to live Christian lives in the New World.
The women displayed at the bottom of the window are Florence Nightingale with a wise owl and Jane Adams, also touched by a dove of the Holy Spirit. Florence Nightingale is famous for nursing and healing, while Jane Adams championed for the underprivileged. Below them are the rose of divine love and the shield of faith.
On the south side of the east semi-transept is the Great Christian Men Window. Also dedicated in 1957, this mirror exemplifies great men of the Church. At the apex here is Saint Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order, who embraced and preached simplicity and repentance. Also known as the patron saint of animals, he is surrounded by birds.
Below him are Martin Luther, who inspired the Protestant Reformation and was a major influence on Protestantism and Christianity as a whole, and John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. His brother Charles is honored with a hymnal on a lyre above him, since he was known for creating a multitude of influential Christian hymns.
In the panels below them are the Pilgrim father and pioneer Circuit rider. The Pilgrim father is shown bringing faith and Christianity to America, while the Circuit rider is shown traveling on horseback to minister to settlers and organize congregations.
The bottom two panels depict Francis Asbury on the left and Albert Schweitzer on the right. Francis Asbury is known as the founder of American Methodism, and next to him is a squirrel, representing a Christian's busy preparation for eternity. Albert Schweitzer, Nobel Peace Prize winner of 1952, was a great medical missionary and prominent musician. He is joined by sheet music and a caduceus (a winged staff entwined with serpents), representing medicine in the jungles of Africa, where he established a hospital.
The base of the window are panels of a ship of the Church and the lighted lamp of truth. These symbols represent the importance of following His way in modern times just as the prophets of old.
The windows in the transept are but four of many windows in the sanctuary that tell important and ageless stories about the loving message of Christ. Seen all around the nave are windows that make one pause for reflection and feel inspired by God's light shining through. The meaning and symbolism behind them are truly eternal, powerful, and inspirational, and will be joyfully explored in future articles.
Until then, most of the information related here can be found in the book Aiming In His Direction by Charlotte L. Daniels, which chronicles the symbolism behind all the art in the church. It also includes many illustrations by the author, creating a visual history as rich as the text. One can find and read it in the church library.
The Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church has an absolutely rich and incredible history. Rudy Heath and other past historians have done an amazing job recording all the details behind the construction, renovations, architecture, art, and most important, the clergy and all the people who have shaped the church into what it is today. Sitting in the sanctuary for worship, one cannot help but be inspired by the ornate woodwork, the golden Graded Cross and reredos on the altar, the medieval pillars and stonework throughout the nave, the baptismal font, the many interesting tiles on the floor, and of course, the stained glass windows.
1950 marked the first of a twelve year period for the installations and dedications of all the stained glass windows found in the sanctuary. In collaboration with Charles Connick of Boston, Senior Pastor Dr. Lynn James Radcliffe meticulously ensured that the symbolism of each window told a powerful story through emblematic attributes, warm colors, and variations in texture. It is easy to get lost in each window as light pours through on a peaceful Sunday morning, and for this alone, Dr. Radcliffe should be honored.
The first window to be dedicated was the Living Christ Window, set directly above the altar. Designed in three sections, it is one of the most prominent of all the windows in the church. In the center of the three, Christ is viewed after Ascension, inviting those in the congregation to worship and follow Him. In the bottom center part of the window, Christ is seen holding the cup for disciples kneeling in communion. In between the top and bottom sections, one can see the symbols for the Alpha and the Omega, referring to Christ as the beginning and the end (Rev. 22:13).
On the upper side of the window to the left, Christ is seen calling Peter and Andrew to follow Him into the Sea of Galilee, representing the everlasting call to repent the sinful life His disciples are living on shore. The image below this shows Christ ever present to hear our prayers. The upper side of the window to the right depicts Christ calling men to embrace the world as one under God. And below this, Christ is seen as showing compassion to men, demonstrating that if we have faith in Him, He will make us whole.
Throughout the window one can see stars, symbolizing unwavering loyalty, and white lilies on the vine, symbolizing purity. The picture as a whole is a powerful and beautiful image, reminding those in the congregation of the eternal presence of Christ. He welcomes us as we enter the church and gives us the peace we need as we kneel humbly before His mercy.
The Living Christ Window is but one of many windows in the sanctuary that tell important and ageless stories about the loving message of Christ. Seen all around the nave are windows that make one pause for reflection and feel inspired by God's light shining through. The meaning and symbolism behind them are truly eternal, powerful, and inspirational, and will be joyfully explored in future articles.
Until then, most of the information related here can be found in the book Aiming In His Direction by Charlotte L. Daniels, which chronicles the symbolism behind all the art in the church. It also includes many illustrations by the author, creating a visual history as rich as the text. One can find and read it in the church library.