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Window of the Month
Our Lady of Grace, Dearborn Heights, Michigan

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Window

Building Name: First United Methodist Church

Studio Name: Omnibus Studios

City: Grand Ledge

Window Shape: 3 (arched)

Date of Window: 2001

Subject/Title of Window: James the Less

Brief Description of Subject: From the booklet, "Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, Education Unit Stained Glass Program, 2000-2001," by Dr. C. Bernard Johnson.
YOUTH ROOM
According to legend and the ancient historian Hegesippus, St. James the Less labored diligently in and around Jerusalem and was the first bishop of this city. Appropriately then, the bishop's mitre is the central symbol here. The mitre is reminiscent of the pointed hat worn by the Jewish high priest as a symbol of authority. It is emblazoned with the symbol of the Holy Spirit and the cross of salvation. The stone wall suggests the Wall of Jerusalem.

St. James the Less martyrdom came when he was hurled off the top of the temple. When he did not die, he was stoned, then clubbed to death with a fuller's bat. His body was then sawn in half, thus the bat and saw in the crest. It is believed that this saint was related to Mary, the mother of Jesus.



Condition of Window: Good

Height: 17"

Width: 33"

Type of Glass and Technique: Opalescent Glass, Antique or Cathedral Glass, Enamel Paint, Lead Came, Jewels or Cast Glass

James the Less
James the Less

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