In early May, we published an exterior photo of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church (see post HERE), commenting that we'd love to get inside to see those beautiful stained glass windows. Well, Guilford Park has a fabulous historian and archivist, Donna Barrier, and she reached out and invited us to come see the sanctuary. Not only did we receive a personal tour and a couple hours of questions and answers, Donna shared with us the original 1955 contract from The Willet Stained Glass Company for the agreement to make and install the twelve windows. Collectively, it is a twelve panel chancel window, depicting the symbols of eleven disciples and Paul. (Judas is noticeably absent). The technique used was one perfected by medieval glass artists.
From a distance, the overall impact of the windows is spectacular. However, the close-ups are breathtaking. See below the panel honoring St. Paul the Apostle to appreciate more fully the vibrancy of the painted and kiln fused slabs. As we sat there in awe of the windows the and acoustics of the sanctuary, we were even more impressed with church members giving so freely of their time. In addition to Donna Barrier, Linda Fitts, wife of Brian Fitts, Director of YES Music for Casual Worship, and Church Administrator Jane Sharpe were there. It was a special treat when Director of Music Ministries Dr. Bill Allred came in to practice the organ. We left with enough information for at least a month of Sundays!
If you are looking for a church that will be a spiritual home, this inviting, social-justice-minded gem of a church in the Kirkwood neighborhood is a good one to consider.
Happy Sunday!
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