The Windows and Other Art Forms of St. Joseph’s Church: The Annunciation

As the young Mary is meditating over Scripture, she senses a strange figure approaching her. It is the angel Gabriel, bearing God’s message that she has been chosen to be the Mother of our Savior.

Gabriel greets her, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” Note the banner on his staff reads “Ave Maria,” Hail Mary!

Mary, of course, was somewhat taken aback by this sudden announcement by this unexpected visitor. As a faithful Jewish girl, she knew that someday the Lord would send the Messiah, the Savior into the world. Sensing her discomfort, Gabriel spoke the words that Jesus said so many times throughout his time on Earth—“Do not be afraid.”

He then informed her that she would bear a child—a son—and that she would name him Jesus. Though Mary was engaged to Joseph, they had not yet lived together as a married couple—so how can this be, she asked. Gabriel informed her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.” Look at the top of the window and see the artist’s concept of the Spirit—a dove descending toward Mary.

Confident in God’s goodness, Mary declared, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

Mary’s “Yes,” her acceptance of this awesome event, brought about an immeasurable change to the world. At that instant, she became the Mother of God.

The Feast of the Annunciation is on March 25, exactly nine months before the Nativity of Jesus—Christmas Day.

This is the first in a series regarding the sacred space in which we worship. The images in the stained glass windows and other symbols speak to us from the ages—reminding us of major events in the life of Jesus, his family, and his disciples during his time on earth.