CPC Stained Glass Windows

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Chapel Altar
This central window in the chapel is dedicated to youth. Some of the stories seen in the windows in the sanctuary are duplicated here. It also contains symbols of the sacraments which are central to the Christian faith.

At the top of the left lancet is a shell from which water is dripping, representing the sacrament of baptism. Below it are three stories from the Old Testament. First is the story of Daniel in the lions' den (Daniel 6:16-23). Next is the enduring friendship of two youths, David and Jonathan, the son of Saul (I Samuel 18:1-4, I Samuel 19:1-8). Third is Hannah bringing her son, Samuel, to be dedicated at the temple. As in the sanctuary window of this same story, (I Samuel 1), the seven branch candlestick is seen here also.

The head of the central lancet contains an open Bible, symbolizing that the word of God is open to everyone and is to be spread throughout the world. Beneath this is Jesus embracing two youths, members of the fold symbolized by the lamb that is at their feet. The story of the Good Samaritan is seen in the bottom medallion (Luke 10:30-37). While the Samaritan is helping the man who was beaten by the thieves, the priest and Levite, who passed by on the other side, can be seen fleeing in the background.

Capping the right lancet are the chalice and wafer, symbolizing the sacrament of holy communion. Below this symbol are three stories from the New Testament. First is the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr (Acts 7:54-60). The central panel is of Timothy, who was an early deacon of the church, with his mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois (2 Timothy 1:5). At the bottom is Jesus' disciple John caring for Mary, the mother of Jesus (John 19:26-27). Looking closely at this medallion one can see just the feet of Jesus nailed to the cross and the crosses of the two thieves who were crucified with him.

Centered at the top of the window is a ship bearing a cross for its mast. This symbol for the world-wide or ecumenical church is surrounded by the Greek word Oikoumene meaning "the inhabited world."