The Church's Art - Stained Glass
Three different sets of stained glass windows are found in St. Charles Church. The oldest set includes the three windows pictured immediately below which were installed during the time of the church's construction.
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High above the main altar is this round window called the "Star of David Window." Within the star is a mother pelican feeding her young. Legend has it that, in times of famine, a mother pelican will pluck her own breast with her beak and feed her young with her blood, resulting in her death. The pelican thus became a symbol for Christ who poured out His blood willingly to save us. Moreover, Jesus continues to feed us with His body and blood in the holy Eucharist. | |
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Included in the original set of windows are those of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, and of St. Francis Xavier, the famous Jesuit missionary. These are found on either side of the main altar. |
The second set of windows, now located in the transepts or side wings of the church, was installed in the 1920's.
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These include depictions of the Annunciation to Mary by the Angel Gabriel and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin into heaven. |
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There is also a portrayal of the Death of St. Joseph and a tribute to Saint Cecilia who is the patroness of music. |
The final set, those depicting the twelve promises of the Sacred Heart as given to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, was installed in the main seating area of the church in the late 1940's.