Perhaps the most striking feature of the sanctuary at Winter Park Presbyterian Church is the stained glass. The purpose of the windows is to create some devotional involvement as the windows speak to us through the eye. The involvement is perhaps best experienced by standing before the light, color and characters of the windows.
Early stained glass windows, in the late tenth century, were purposed to teach the great events and truths of religion, not solely for adornment. Since most people could neither read nor write, the beautiful windows served to carry the wonderful Gospel to the hearts and minds of the people.
The stained glass windows in the sanctuary were designed and installed by Willet Stained Glass Studio of Philadelphia, whose work is found in churches all over the United States and abroad.
The four transom windows depict the broad sweep of the Old Testament from the beginning of the chosen people under Abraham down to Paul in whom was the transition from the Old to the New Covenant
The eight nave or aisle windows begin with the Annunciation and proceed through the events in the earthly life of the Son of God to the Resurrection.
The twelve clerestory windows recall the Twelve Apostles, beginning with Peter and ending with Matthias, who was chosen to be in the place of Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:23-26).
The chancel windows: The two lancets symbolize the two sacraments instituted by our Lord-the Lord’s Supper on the right and Baptism on the left. The rose depicts the four vital aspects of Christ’s life, and the traditional symbols of the four Evangelists in whose Gospels is found the glorious story of his life.
A guide book with detailed information is available at the church, and visitors are welcome to visit and view the windows. Please contact the church office for more information.
Click here for pictures of our beautiful stained glass windows.