The Windows of Trinity

The Seven Sacraments
(West Transcept)

In contemporary images, this window portrays the seven Sacraments of the Church.

The Center Panel

At the top of the center panel, one sees a dove descending on the Christ. In Christian symbolism, the dove signifies the Holy Spirit.

The lower medallion shows Jesus rising from the waters of the Jordan River after having been baptized by John. Baptism is the first of the two great sacraments.

The larger representation shows Christ as King and Great High Priest. He wears a golden crown and is dressed in Eucharistic (priestly) vestments: the white alb (purity), the stole (priesthood), the chasuble (Eucharist) and over his left arm, the maniple (servanthood). His right hand is raised in blessing, while in his left he holds the chalice. Holy Communion is the second of the two great sacraments.

Beneath the central figure of Christ, two women are kneeling, Martha on the left, carrying a ewer and symbolizing a ministry of service, and Mary, kneeling in prayer, symbolizing a ministry of devotion. The flame which appears in several places speaks of the Holy Spirit present in the life of the Church where the sacraments are faithfully administered.

The lower medallion shows a folded stole and the Holy Bible. These represent the Holy Orders of Deacon, Priest, and Bishop.

The Right Panel

The upper medallion in the right panel depicts Holy Matrimony. In this case, the marriage service has included the Holy Eucharist since the priest is portrayed in Eucharistic vestments. The newly married couple are kneeling for God's blessing on their marriage.

The lower medallion in the right panel represents the sacrament of reconciliation commonly called confession. Here, the priest, wearing a purple stole, symbol of penitence, sits facing the altar. When the penitent has made his confession to God, the priest will pronounce absolution, the words of forgiveness. (For further information regarding the Seven Sacraments, read An Outline of the Faith in the prayer book (pages 857-861) and the individual services as presented in The Book of Common Prayer.)

The Left Panel

The upper medallion in the left panel portrays Confirmation which is being administered by a bishop wearing traditional Anglican vestments including a mitre, representing the flames of the Holy Spirit descending on the Apostles at the feast of Pentecost. He has laid his hands on the head of the confirm and and is praying 'Strengthen, O Lord, your servant . with your Holy Spirit.'

The lower medallion in the left panel represents Holy Unction or the Sacrament of Healing which is often administered in the context of the Holy Eucharist. The priest's right hand holds a container of holy oil, and he is about to place his hand on the head of the woman, anointing her, and praying for healing.