The Rose Window

The first of our present windows to be installed is the rose window facing Washtenaw Avenue, over the balcony. The symbol in the center is a Chi Rho standing for Christos, or, in Greek, Χριστος.  The Chi (Χ) and Rho (Ρ), the first two letters of Χριστος, are very frequently written together to form the Chi Rho, probably the most common symbol for Christ, and one of the most common in Christianity.

Around the Chi Rho are five circles. The top one shows the Descending Dove, the symbol for the Holy Spirit.  The Dove is always shown descending toward earth, the Holy Spirit coming into the world.  The other four represent the four evangelists, as Winged Man, Lion, Ox and Eagle, as described in the Chancel Cross.

The window was installed in 1961.  It was designed and manufactured by the George L. Payne Studios, and is composed of over 1,500 pieces of glass.

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