From preliminary discussions to a 30-foot high ride in a scissors lift, a three-year process of stained glass creation was completed by Ancient Arts Stained Glass (http://www.ancientartsstainedglass.com).
St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Irvine is nearing the end of construction of their new Parish Center.
One stained glass window has been installed in an opening between the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and the sanctuary. This window depicts the Eucharistic symbols of the chalice and host inscribed with the Chi Rho monogram. Rays of light emanate from the sacred objects.
Two stained glass windows have also been installed in the Library of the Parish Center. The top of each window is 30 feet off the floor.
Facing the direction of the brilliant morning light is a stained glass window depicting the Archangels, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. Opposite, we have created a window depicting Our Lady of Walshingham and the heraldic crest of St. Thomas More, the namesake of the church in Irvine.
The stained glass windows in the Library are made with the finest traditional antique glass, imported from Germany. Every piece has been painted and fired in the traditional manner. Traditional authentic glass techniques of etching and silver staining were also used in these windows.
The original designs were adapted from images provided by the church pastor, Rev. John Janze.
The new St. Thomas More Parish Center is expected to be completed in December and the dedication is tentatively scheduled for January 2010.
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