St. Stephen Catholic Church
El Paso, TX
Architect:
Alvidrez Architecture, Inc.
Liturgical Design Consultant:
Kenneth J. Griesemer & Associates
Use the links below for complete project information:
Overview | Nave Windows | Altar Cross Window
TOWER WINDOWS
Two windows, each 3’-2” wide by 23’-5” high
German, Polish and French mouthblown glass, domestic rolled glasses, beveled Austrian lead crystal, lead and solder. Tempered protective glazing in lower lites.
The soaring tower topped by its pristine white cross is the first thing noticed as one approaches St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Catholic Church. This landmark proclaims St. Stephen as a place of worship. Surprisingly, upon entering the Nave, the only acknowledgment of the dramatic intersection of vertical tower and cross into the horizontal architectural mass is an understated break in the curved wall where two windows flank the tower’s base. The design of these two Tower Windows serves as a reminder of the towering cross rising outside and acknowledges the visual and symbolic grounding of the Cross above.
The crystalline transparency of the clear, colored glasses with their wing-like flutters symbolize the descending Dove and represent the presence and comfort of the Holy Spirit flowing from above. Located on the axis of the Baptismal Pool, the Tower Windows are reflected in its waters recalling the mystery and wonder of the Holy Sacrament of Baptism and the inflowing of the Holy Spirit.
Between their parting drapery of white glass, the Tower Windows contain the brightest, most intensely colored glass at St. Stephen. The colors become more saturated in the lower sections of these windows acknowledging the transition from the bright, heavenly, spiritual realm of God above down into our physical reality here on earth. Unlike the vision-obscuring white glass, the transparent glasses project afternoon color across the Sanctuary. Three Austrian lead-crystal bevels recall the Trinity. Their unexpected and colorful rainbows radiate onto pews, floors and worshipers symbolizing the unexpected bounty of God’s gifts and the everpresence of the Holy Spirit. These colors, especially the reds, symbolize life on earth and God’s gift of his Son. The reds also resonate with Marian roses in the nearby Nava tapestry, while the blues recall the robes of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Finally, the petal-like shapes at the base of the Tower Windows rely on the traditional use of flowers as a symbol for spiritual growth, rebirth and spiritual growth.
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