Our Sanctuary Rose Window
Rose Window – “The Martyrdom of the Twelve Apostles”
This unique Rose Window is entitled “The Martyrdom of the Twelve Apostles” and was created by the firm Whipple Mowbray of Exeter, England. It was dedicated on March 25, 1973, and reflects the Gospel according to St. Mark (10:38), “Can you drink the cup that I must drink, or be baptized with the baptism with which I must be baptized?”
The composition has twelve symbols around a central symbol. The outer twelve symbols often refer to legendary events. These symbols are used correctly and allow me to read the story embedded in the window.
At a high level, the twelve symbols at the outer radius of the window are for each of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus. In the center of the window is the Cup of Christ.
Central Symbol, the Cup of Christ. Chalice and wafer against a red backdrop. It would be possible to read this element as a reference to Holy Communion. Because of the overall context of the window and the red backdrop I understand the center of the window as the Cup of Christ, that is, the agony which Jesus endured for us.
The cup being referred to is the cup Jesus mentions in Matthew 26:39 (Mark 10:38) during His prayer in Gethsemane. (See Psalm 75:8, Isaiah 51:17 and Jeremiah 25:15-17).
Twelve vines with fruit flow out from the central Cup of Christ symbol to the outer 12 symbols. The red backdrop behind each of the 12 outer symbols also helps to connect the outer symbols with the central symbol. (“I Am the True Vine”, and Matthew 20:23 “You will drink my cup…”)
Each pigment was fired into hand-blown glass. Most pigments were English; however, some French and German pigments were also used. The leading is ½ inch lead cams and the frame is of a burnished stainless steel.
This Rose Window is dedicated to the loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. John S. Culbertson and their son Dr. John S. Culbertson and given to All Saints’ Episcopal Church by their children, grandchildren and the wife of Dr. John S. Culbertson. As we grow as a parish, let us remember this fitting memorial to those who helped the mission church of Our Savior to become All Saints’ Episcopal Church.
Click on the link below for a more detailed description of our Rose Window.
