The church building has played a primary role in religious tradition for centuries. The church building was understood
not only as a gathering space for worship, but as the very symbol of the people of God, who, as individuals composed the Body
of Christ, just as individual bricks compose a building. In fact, the original name for the church building was the "domus
ecclesiae," meaning literally "the house of the church." It was only for convenience that the building
itself eventually became known as the "ecclesia" or "church."
Art glass windows have
long been associated with places of worship. They lend a warm glow of color and soften the atmosphere of the sanctuary and
contribute to a spirit of worship. They often also carry messages that speak to the mind and heart of the worshipper.