Death: Stained Glass Images

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Life and Death	Pondering death can seem scary, yet sages in many traditions have encouraged followers to use meditation on our fatal fragility as a way of becoming more engaged in life. St. Benedict wrote in his rule, “Day by day remind yourself that you are going to die.” (4:47)
	Talking About Death	Death isn’t always the easiest subject to discuss. Yet many times a person who is dying has things they want and even need to say to those they love.
	Suffering	There is an Ignatian practice that invites us to meditate on Jesus suffering on the cross. Gaze gently at this twelfth-century image from the Chartres Cathedral. Now, feel your own suffering and the way it lives within you.
	Hanging On Before Letting Go	This twelfth-century image of Mary interlacing her hands with those of her dead son’s makes sense viscerally.
	Goodbye	We often do not get to choose when a goodbye becomes necessary. Jesus’s mother and disciples (shown above) certainly had no idea that they would need to bury their beloved son and teacher just days before it was necessary.
	Considering Our Lives	Ignatius of Loyola suggested an important practice for anyone who wants to embody a vital life of faith: Consider your actions as if you were on our deathbed. From that perspective, how would you wish you had made the choice you are facing? Reflection now can help us to live more fully and have fewer regrets.
	Possibilities in Times of Grief	The story is told that after a time of exile, John (the writer of the Gospel of John) returned to his home in Ephesus, and discovered a beloved follower was dead. He asked for Drusiana’s shrouded body be brought to him. When it was, he ordered her to get up and make him a meal (!), which she did.
	Consider This!	Jesus appeared to John (the Gospel writer) a week before his death, telling him of his imminent demise and blessing him.
	Grieving: Then and Now	We grieve the death of those closest to us. We grieve the loss of those whose lives have touched ours. And in a pandenic time we also grieve those we have never met–and now never will.
	The Many Faces of Mourning	Grief has a power of its own, stronger than any effort to control it.
	Water: In Life and Death	“From dust to dust” is no more true than “From water to water.”
	Resurrection	Having lived through two near-death experiences, I relate to Lazarus, who was raised by Jesus. I wonder what it was like for him to “wake up” back in his life, still bound in his burial shroud.
	Welcome As A Blessing	The little naked souls found in medieval windows remind us that we brought nothing into this world and we will take nothing with us.
	The Importance Of A Face	The faces of those we love are precious to us–in life and even after they have died.
	Dying in Community	One of the many tragedies of COVID-19 is that people are dying alone. At the end, we would like those we love and those who love us to be there.
	Your Soul	Have you ever asked yourself, “What is my soul like?”
	Carrying Death	Grief is heavy–even heavier than the casket we sometimes are asked to bear.
	Murder	George Floyd’s murder haunts us all. The residents of my city have been demonstrating, sometimes burning, grieving, soul-searching, filing charges, weeping, chanting, and helping one another.
	Seeing with More Than Your Eyes	Post-modern eyes, a vital part of post-modern brains, have been trained to trust one’s own vision of outer realities. If we can relearn how to look at the inner realities that inform the cells of vision and the decisions that they help us make, we can work for change in ourselves and in our societies. May this medieval image of death help us.
	Meditating with Christ on the Cross	“Gaze meditatively at Christ on the cross,” is a familiar suggestion during Ignatian retreats. Staring at death (literally or symbolically) may not be comfortable, but for the courageous, it can bring deeper meaning to life.
	Resurrection	There are many stained glass images at Chartres of men, women, and children being brought back to life by saints (usually in the presence of witnesses).
	Passage	The death of a friend always involves many passages—for the one who has died as well as for those who are left.

Holy Week at the Chartres Cathedral

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Palm Sunday in Chartres (Remembered)	Remember those you have worshipped with in the past. Pray for them, that this Holy Week might draw them deeper into the heart of Christ. Pray that we will all find new ways to be in community. Ask that you might discover ways to encourage others to walk with Jesus this Holy Week.
	Holy Tuesday in Chartres (Remembered)	The Chrismal Mass on Tuesday evening incorporates three important elements: the blessing of the sacramental oils for the next year, the rededication of the clergy to continued service, and communion.
	Wednesday of Holy Week in Chartres (Remembered)	On Holy Wednesday the choir and ambulatory of the cathedral are reserved for personal reflection, prayer, and confession. Now is the time to examine one’s heart. Now is the time to connect with the heart of God.
	Maundy Thursday in Chartres (Remembered)	Each service draws the worshipper both closer to the deep love of God and the human need for redemption. Beauty–of the cathedral and especially of the thirteenth century tabernacle in which the consecrated elements of communion are placed during the prayer time late at night–helps to soften the sorrow that is a part of what happened to Christ and that inhabits our hearts.
	Good Friday in Chartres (Remembered)	I love the cross because God’s love has never more evident than when God allowed Godself to fully experience the worst of what humans do to each other, as well as horrific physical, emotional, and spiritual pain.
	Holy Saturday in Chartres (Remembered)	There are no lights, no candles, only hushed voices, and relative quiet in the cathedral on Holy Saturday.
	Easter in Chartres (Remembered)	Thankfully, Christ’s rising reminds us of the hope we hold in our hearts.
	Palm Sunday	As Holy Week begins, it is helpful to ask “Who is this Jesus?” What words can I choose to express my faith in God? What do my actions communicate about who Jesus is?
	Mary Prepares Jesus for His Death	Mary had a lot of courage. She was willing to believe what Jesus was saying about his impending death. She took his words seriously enough to do something outrageous and needed. May I be more like Mary, willing to accept what is true, and act on it.
	The Blessing of the Oils	Anointing with oil, one way of affirming the connection between humanity and the Divine during important moments, is an ancient practice. I want to appreciate every gift that God has given, including the gift of my body as a sacred vessel.
	Jesus's Last Meal with His Disciples	When I take communion, I feel grateful for Jesus’ presence, even though he died two thousand years ago.
	Jesus on the Cross	The crucifixion of Jesus is a horrible thing to contemplate. The cross was often shown as green in the thirteenth century, because Jesus’ death also brought life. On this day of sorrow, I am trying to hold the paradox of life-death in my mind, heart, and body with gratitude and peace.
	Holy Saturday	On this day of silence, let us contemplate the love of God.
	Christ Is Risen!	Christ’s resurrection is our hope. Easter services, images, and encounters fill me with its joy.
	Easter & The Road to Emmaus	Christ is truly with us, but like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we don’t see Him. Like them, we are unaware that our hearts, burning within us with the joy of the resurrection, are a sign of His presence.
	Resurrection Joy: Easter	Is resurrection possible? Sometimes God’s choices don’t make any sense.
	Mourning: Holy Saturday	There is grief so big that silence is the only response.
	Jesus on the Cross	The beauty of Jesus’ death is a terrible but essential truth of the Christian faith.
	Following Jesus's Example	What I do is the point of what I believe.
	Judas	Judas appears in the Scripture readings of Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week. Betrayal is a painfully real part of human experience.
	Blessing of the Oils	Valuing the body is part of our Christian heritage–yet we forget. Reminders, like the blessing of the oils remind us how much God values our physicality.
	The Importance of Feet	Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet has always moved me. That Mary cared for Jesus’ feet just six days beforehand moves me too.

Mary & The Chartres Labyrinth

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Mary and Jesus: East Window	While walking and praying the labyrinth in Chartres, images of Mary have reminded me of God’s love. In the coming days and weeks I will be sharing a variety of these depictions of Jesus’ mother with you. Today I start with the image of Mary that is most visible from entrance of the labyrinth and when arriving at its center. Mary, as depicted in the Chartres Cathedral, is a support for Jesus–as his mother, his disciple, and even as in this image, as his throne.
	Gabriel and Mary: The Apsidal Window	I am often surprised by what God communicates while I move on a labyrinth. While walking in God’s presence, it seems easy, even natural, to accept what I “hear.” This is one of the great gifts of praying while using a labyrinth, the turning path seems to support fluidity in me.
	Mary and Elizabeth: The Apsidal Window	Walking with friends through life helps to ground me. Being able to share what God is doing in our lives is a source of deep peace and encouragement.
	Mary in the Tree of Jesse	To feel connected to Mary is to feel connected to her family of physical and spiritual ancestors who sit and stand together in the Tree of Jesse window in the west, watching over the cathedral, reminding us all that we never walk alone.
	The Annunciation of Jesus's Birth	Sometimes God is full of surprises. Mary helps me remember that I can always respond with total honesty.
	The Visitation of Mary & Elizabeth	Friends speak volumes to one another without needing words. My understanding of others sometimes comes from our bodies reveal.
	The Nativity of Jesus	Mary reminds me that as I reach towards those I love with a desire to bless them, I need to hold onto myself too. Healthy caring involves balance.
	Visit of the Magi	Sharing life is richer when I ask those I’m with to tell me about what they are experiencing. Even though we are in the same place, our interpretations of what we are living is likely different.
	Return from Egypt	Fleeing political oppression is almost as ancient as human history. What is new is how I choose to respond to it today.
	Flight to Egypt: Life of Christ Window	Acting on wisdom that arrives from God takes courage, grit, and trust. Joseph inspires me to let the journey of life unfold, no matter where it seems to be heading.
	Mary Throne with Sun and Moon	How often we walk without awareness. Above the labyrinth in Chartres is a twelfth-century image of Jesus blessing. Mary*, the sun (Jesus’ right at the level of Jesus’ heart), the moon (Jesus’ left), and two angels seem to offer support as they surround him. When I look up from the labyrinth I remember that God’s love often seems invisible, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t present.
	Mary Witnessing Jesus's Death	Suffering is interwoven with life. Even God suffers. By remaining present to the pain that others’ experience, God can use me to love.
	Mary Holds Her Dead Son's Hands	When there are no words, touch still speaks. Even death isn’t powerful enough to kill all connection. As long as I am alive, I can reach for what I love or loved.
	The Silence of Mary	When something is so horrible that it is inappropriate to speak, I can follow Mary’s example by keeping my hands and heart open.
	Mary Breastfeeding Jesus	God was willing to depend on a woman, as all humans must do, to be nurtured unto life and nourished unto health. I am grateful to Mary, my older sister, whose example reminds me that maternal love is very precious.
	Mary of the Organ	Changing where I look changes what I find. While walking labyrinth path in Chartres by watching the floor, I would never image that this sculpture of Mary holding Jesus is “watching over me” from above.
	The Bishop's Pulpit	A piece of cloth that Mary may have worn at either the Annunciation or the birth of Jesus is kept with reverence in Chartres. Since this “veil” was kept safely in a locked box throughout the Middle Ages, people thought of it as a shirt. In Chartres there are over 100 depictions of Mary’s shirt, including one on the Bishop’s pulpit in the nave, right above the labyrinth. This wooden symbol of Mary’s care for Jesus, surrounded by roses and lilies, reminds me that as I walk through life God’s fragrant love is never far away.
	Flight to Egypt: John Window	At the bottom of the St. John window is an image of Mary, Jesus, and Joseph fleeing the threat of death. John, persecuted for his Christian faith, was exiled to the Greek island of Patmos, less than sixty-six nautical miles from where today’s hundreds of thousands of refugees make their first stop on Kos. While walking the labyrinth, this scene of suffering calls me to move with the questions, “How I might be contributing to the suffering of others?” and “How may I participate in what God desires for those who are seeking safety in our very broken world?”
	Mary's Deathbed	We are all walking towards death. As I move on the labyrinth in Chartres, this tender image of Mary dying while surrounded by the grief-struck disciples reminds me that as natural as loss is, it hurts.
	Mary's Soul	Being with God involves complete vulnerability and acceptance. As I walk the Chartres labyrinth I look at Jesus holding Mary’s soul and I am reminded that God respects me (Jesus holds Mary in his cloak–in the middle ages one did not touch things considered holy with bare hands) and blesses me (Jesus’ right hand) just as I am (Mary is small and naked).
	Jesus's Disciples Carry Mary's Casket	Carrying our loss is hard. The sharing of grief makes it bearable.
	The Death of Mary	Recalling our intimate connection with the earth and our own mortality is grounding. I orient my life by keeping death in view on the horizon.
	The Assumption of Mary	Transitions involve stretching, openness, and change. The practice of praying using a labyrinth has taught me a great deal about each. This image of Mary’s assumption into Heaven (a doctrine which as a Protestant seems very foreign) comforts me–the angels are there to help!
	Jesus Crowning Mary	“Thee, O God, we praise,” is written in Latin on each side of this image. Christ is placing a crown on Mary’s head. At first glance, this image is hard for me as a Protestant to understand. I look more carefully and notice how Mary is directing attention to her son, the Risen Christ. Above them I see the Holy Spirit (symbolized by a dove) extending red symbols of God’s blessing to both. This image of Mary being crowned by the King of Kings, who wears no crown, expresses His appreciation and respect. I too appreciate and respect Mary for her “Yes,” to God, daily fulfilling the challenge of mothering Jesus, and devotion to her son during his ministry, death, and after his resurrection.
	The Coronation of Mary	“Thy will be done,” is a prayer for all seasons. While walking the labyrinth I often reflect on the highs and lows of my life. Like Mary in this image, I ask God for the grace and courage to accept whatever comes.
	Mary at Jesus's Crucifixion	Many people can walk one labyrinth at the same time, although each lives and integrates the experience differently. This image of Mary mourning below the cross of Jesus reminds me that even in times of deep isolation, the presence of others is a balm.
	Mary & The Resurrection of the Dead	As I walk the labyrinth and look at this image of Mary honoring Christ, Ruler Over All, I am grateful to have an older sister whose example of directing others to God inspires me. May I follow more closely in her footsteps.
	Mary Throne with Jesus on Her Lap	Images of Mary’s strong gaze, extending over Jesus who sits on her lap while blessing, surround those walking on the labyrinth. Mary and her son are visible whether one looks east, west, north or south where this image is found. The two incensing angels remind me that Love is holy and honorable.
	Mary & Theophilus: Miracles of Mary Window	While walking the labyrinth, I can see the images that relate to a thirteenth century miracle play. In it, a priest named Theophilus sells his soul to the devil in exchange for becoming a bishop. Later, realizing how big a mistake he has made, he asks for Mary’s help.
	Miracles of Mary Window	This modern (1927) image of Mary and Jesus, based on the statue of Mary in the crypt (Notre Dame Sous Terre), asks the viewer to consider the value of looking to the past (Mary with her eyes closed) and to the future (Jesus with his eyes open, looking straight ahead). As I walk the labyrinth it also reminds me to gaze within while also seeing what is right in front of me.
	North Clerestory Rose	There are so many ways to pray. Whether on my knees or walking the labyrinth, the important thing is the connection I make with God.
	North Clerestory Rose	We walk the labyrinth under this image of holy gestation. As I look up to it, I ask God to infuse all that I create with the Holy Spirit (the six doves who are sending red light that encircles Jesus in the womb) so that it will be a great blessing to others (just as Christ is blessing with his right hand).
	Bridan Sculpture in the Choir	Mary’s open arms, reaching out to God, inspire me to pray for the ability to abandon myself with trust.

Mary: The Nativity (Jesus's Birth)

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Christmas Love	Christmas is the joy of God’s arrival. Christmas is the joy of sharing our lives and our love with God.
	Touching	The closeness of mother and newborn is a beautiful thing. This representation of the Nativity reminds me that being a new mother has its awkward moments too!
	Pondering Jesus's Birth	God’s ways often don’t line up with how we think things should be done. God’s choice of coming to earth as a baby gives us all something to ponder deeply. How can this be? What does it mean? Who is God–really? Deep questions spring from my heart and mind.
	The Nativity: Animal Companions	Tradition places the a bull and a donkey near the Christ child after his birth. While Mary reaches for her son and Joseph contemplates in this medieval image of the Nativity, Jesus looks towards his animal companions. I wonder what it was like for the Creator to know creation from inside the human experience.
	Touching God	During these twelve days of Christmas I enter the Nativity story through each of its characters, including the animals.
Lunar Eclipse, Supermoon	A Mother's Prayers	Mothers all over the world seek God’s help as we pray. We ask for wisdom to teach our children what is most important, the ability to love them in the ways they need, and for God’s will to manifest in their lives.

Mary: Visions of Mary (Book by Jill)

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	The Blue Virgin Window at Chartres	Where do your eyes go first when you look at this image? Look again, which face is drawing you? Did you focus on Jesus or Mary? We are all conditioned to interpret reality. We can also learn to look at familiar sites and themes with fresh eyes.
	Looking Towards God	Visions of Mary: Art, Devotion, and Beauty at Chartres Cathedral places Mary within the context of her “home” at Notre Dame de Chartres. The stained glass of the cathedral sometimes speaks of her directly, and sometimes reminds those in prayer to look towards God, just as she did.
	Notre Dame de Chartres	Walking around a corner in Chartres, France I came upon two tourists. Their mouths were literally open, their eyes big, and their bodies still. They were seeing the west façade of the cathedral for the first time.
	An Angel's Point of View	Perspective matters. What if you saw from above, instead of from below?
	Mary's Example	Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) wrote, “…never forget the example of Mary’s life.” How does (or how can) the example of Mary’s life inspire you?
	Questioning	The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38) of Jesus’ birth by Gabriel didn’t make sense to Mary. She wanted to understand, so she asked a question. Our faith grows stronger when we engage with God honestly.
	Really?	When caught by complete surprise, I often wonder, “God, are you in this?!” I rarely predict how God is going to manifest in my life.
	Wrapped in Love	Love is communicated through touch, color, word, symbol, even fabric. Imagine the love baby Jesus felt wrapped up in Mary’s “veil,” held securely next to her warm body and beating heart.
	Devotion	A French ecumenical group that studied Mary suggests that if you are Protestant, it may be helpful to ask Jesus to further introduce you His mother. If you are Catholic or Orthodox, it may be useful to ask Mary to help you know Jesus better.
	Lifted	Gothic architecture lifts us heavenward. Even if God isn’t “up” above, Chartres Cathedral’ moves us towards God’s Presence.
	There's More...	There is always more to a story than the central plot line. Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple because it was required of them. God used the experience to reveal far more than they could have imagined.
	Celebrating Life	Life, may I celebrate all that I have lived and all that lives in me.
	Blessing	Contributing to another’s wellbeing is one of the definitions of blessing. In religious art a well-known symbol of blessing involves the right hand with the pointer and middle fingers raised. The loving touch of holding is surely another symbol of blessing.
	Silent Grief	Senseless death can, for a time, leave us speechless. We see Mary with a thumb pressed over her lips in this image of Jesus’s entombment.
	Embodied Support	We find a family fleeing the murderous desire of those with power; they are looking into each other’s eyes and finding the courage to keep going. May we never lose the ability to use our embodied presence in ways that bring courage, safety to the vulnerable, and justice for all.
	New Ways of Looking	What did Jesus see when he looked at his mother for the first time?
	How Are We All Related?	When will we remember that as God’s created children we are part of God’s immense family that includes everyone?
	Generational Love	How was Mary prepared to parent Jesus? Who mothered Mary? Whose love made it possible for her to love her son, the Son of God?
	What Does God Have To Say?	Mary was most likely young, uneducated, and illiterate when Jesus was born. Why then, would the medieval artists at Chartres show her reading a book while at school?

Sculpture: Creation of Humanity

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Loved	To imagine myself resting in the lap of a tender, loving God–what could bring more peace and joy?
	God Loves Adam Into Being	God’s love is in the details: the soft reach of the head, the slight forward tilt of the upper body, the gentle gaze, the caress of the left hand, the supportive holding of the right hand.
	Adam, Safe and Securely Created	To come alive while resting securely on God’s broad lap, I can imagine nothing more full of comfort, care, and connection. No wonder Adam is resting his hand so trustingly on God’s knee.
	God Creates Humanity	God’s touch was the first thing that humans experienced. It brought us to life.
	The Creation of Eve	What was Eve aware of first? The touch of creation, the pull of the midwife, the blessing of life all happened in an instant. She experienced them all in her body.

Sculture: Creation of the Natural World

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Creating the Birds and Fish	Letting our imagination “wander” may be part of the process of creating something that seems unrelated.
	The Sun and the Moon	Male and female energies each have their own beautiful contribution.
	Vegetation Created by God	The power to create is full of potential. How wonderful that God wanted to share it so widely.
	Plants and Trees Created	What fun it must have been to think up things that would begin as a seed, grow, and reproduce, as well as offer shelter, food, and inspiration.
	God Creating the Firmament	The spiritual pulse of the Creator can be experienced in all creation.
	Night and Day Created by God	Why is it harder to see where things don’t touch, than where they do?
	Heaven and Earth Created by God	I can think of the heavens and the earth as separate–or connected. Medieval sculptors held all of reality together; I would like to also.

Sculpture: Drama in the Garden of Eden

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Adam at Home in the Garden	Home for Adam meant standing with a fig and an olive tree. Home, besides being a place, is also relationship with all living companions.
	The Heart of Naming	Naming involves understanding inner character. This involves seeing with the heart.
	Eve and the Serpent	Is it what I fear, or what I am not afraid of that is more dangerous?
	Adam Choking, The Feeling of Alienation	It’s hard to swallow. That’s what rupture in my relationship with God feels like. That and regret.
	Alienation Hurts	Being afraid in a relationship often leads me to a favorite hiding place. Once there, instead of finding the peace I hoped for, I feel sad and lonely.
	Nowhere to Hide from God's Searching Love	Broken relationships hurt in so many ways. Vulnerability, telling the truth, and risky reconnection are the only ways I know to get beyond the pain.
	The Blame Game	Taking responsibility for my choices–mental, physical, and relational–is the only way to stop playing the blame game. Instead of “S/he (or the Devil) made me do it!” I can simply state the truth, “I made me do it.” It may seem hard to say, but it also will cause the least amount of harm to others and our relationships.
	Consequences	Consequences follow the choices I make. Even when they are hard to accept, if I am attentive enough, I can find love in their shadows.
	Being Sent Forth	Leaving what is known for what is unknown can be terrifying, exciting, or an uneventful step in a long process of change. Being sent away has always hurt more than leaving by my choice.
	Guarding	I guard what I don’t trust others to care for as I would.
	Longing for Home	Sometimes, even when it isn’t possible, I want to go home.

Sculpture: God, the Creator

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Hands of the Creator	Of course God doesn’t have hands. But if God did, they would be big and strong enough to hold and bless everything all at once. Thinking about God’s hands makes me feel safe and secure.
	God Holding the Book of Knowledge	Trusting God’s firm hold on Reality is as grounding for me as the firmly planted feet of God in this image!
	God Creating the Garden of Eden	Concentration, ability to see what is not yet visible, and freedom to embody possibility are all precursors to creative expression.
	God Creating the Animals	What a delight to consider possibilities. How exciting to see them realized!
	God Imagining Humanity	The gift of imagination oftens takes us into the realm of the possible.
	Envisioning Creation	Envisioning, the ability to perceive far more than the obvious, is part of creation.
	Deep Consideration	Wisdom fuels meaningful creation. Consideration of possibilities opens the way.
	In the Beginning, God Created...	Creation involves vision and action.
	Inspiration	The thirteenth century sculptors at Chartres depicted God “thinking up” Adam before he was created.

Sculpture: Various

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Seeing the Whole	When viewing a building–or a person–glimpses that hold the inside and the outside together bring greater understanding and appreciation. May I look for the whole without being distracted by what I can easily perceive.
	I Have You In My Heart	When the shepherds came to worship the newborn Messiah, they may have also discovered how deeply God loved them. God’s surprises fill me with wonder.
	Post-Epiphany, Heading Home	God can and does use everything to communicate–even my dreams.
	Guidance	The story of the Magi’s visit to Jesus reminds me of how much guidance I can receive–if I pay attention.
	Peace Be With You	Who can blame Thomas for wanting to see and believe what seemed impossible? I have a lot of respect for Thomas’ willingness to say what he thought, even though others might not have appreciated it. I have even more respect for Jesus who took him seriously.
	I Want To See	Not being able to see the way I want, or knowing that I simply can’t “see” what is right in front of me, often drives me to cry out for God’s help.
	Dreaming Changes	How committed am I to what I think is right? Am I willing to let God change my mind?
	Far or Near	Some imagine that God is far away. Sculptors and theologians of the thirteenth century in Chartres emphasized the nearness of God. They placed statues of Jesus not only on pinnacles rising from the cathedral, but also on the porches, close to the people who came to the church.
	Sculptural Invitations	A sculpture may be just a piece of crafted stone. Or, it may be a window through which I can look to see if Love is home.

Sculptures: Virtues, Vices & Beatitudes

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Who Am I?	What helps us consider who we are and who we want to become? Many medieval buildings and manuscripts showed the virtues and vices for this purpose. During this Lenten season of reflection, I am hoping these images of the best and worst of human potential will lead me more deeply into God’s love for me–and my love for God.
	Beautiful	Who is this woman? What does she represent? One author suggests she symbolizes the love of God, standing on roses as she is. A more trusted scholar says she is Beauty personified. As I look into her face, consider the roses on her shield, and contemplate the buds below her feet, I wonder, “What is God’s beauty in me?”
	Free	Freedom is one of the wondrous gifts of God. Yet so many of us feel bound up, unable to express who God created us to be. By living as one who is truly free, I am more of who God imagined in the first place.
	Honorable	To be full of integrity is my preferred definition for honorable. At Chartres Cathedral Honor stands next to blooming flowers–integrity is accompanied by such lovely blossoms!
	Joyful	Today in Chartres we are saying our final goodbyes to a Père Manuel, a priest who served faithfully for sixty-five years. His dedication, ability to observe everything, and devotion to Mary brought him much joy. Yet I believe his joy is even greater now. That is the message of today’s statue of “Heavenly Joy.”
	Sensual	There are no good answers to the question, “If I had to lose one of my senses, which would I choose?” We are sensual beings, created to enjoy tasting, touching, smelling, hearing, and seeing. I am so deeply grateful for pleasure.
	Agile	Agility and speed have long been understood as a holy combination (notice the halo in the medieval image of Velocity below). Moving in the right way at the right tempo takes practice, concentration, and a willingness to let go.
	Strong	Courage in pain or adversity, that’s fortitude. While life is full of suffering and many things I can’t control, I always have the choice about how I am going to respond.
	Faithful and Unfaithful	None of us are full of virtue or full of iniquity (vice). My longing for faith is greater than my ability to embody it. God knows all this; God accepts me for who I am.
	Hopeful and Despairing	There is always something that invites hope. Likewise, there is always something that invites despair. Sometimes I choose one, sometimes I choose the other.
	Greedy and Giving	Generosity opens doors of connection, meaning, and joy. Greed isolates. Sometimes I believe the lie that I am better off not sharing.
	Humble and Prideful	I remember the first time I heard that women are more likely to practice the sin of humility while men are more likely to practice the sin of pride. I need both humility and pride. Too much or too little of either is not helpful–or Godly!
	Wise and Foolish	Following impulses can make me feel free, even joyous–in the moment. When I think things through and act wisely, I’m happier for longer.
	Gentle and Harsh	Frustration is one trigger. When it rises above a certain level, all the gentleness I feel and love to express disappears. I am horrified to watch myself express harshness.
	Courageous and Cowardly	Even the bravest person can want to run away. Courage is one of my core values, but sometimes I act like a coward. When I refuse to give in to fear I can stand strong.
	Just and Unjust	The world is a very unfair place. In what ways am I a part of the problem?
	Steady and Inconsistent	As challenges test me, I sometimes find it difficult to persevere. Fatigue, lack of perspective, and discouragement are the greatest enemies I face as I seek to live out my faith and values.

Sculpture: West Capital Frieze

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	The Pain of Infertility	There is an extra-biblical story about Mary’s parents. They went to the temple to make an offering, but because of their infertility, it was not accepted. In this visual version, Joachim and Anne arrive with lambs. They priest (with a halo, but missing his head) with an immense right hand stops them. Their feet suggest that they are recoiling.
	Needing To Think Things Over	After Joachim and Anne left the Temple, they turn away from each other. Each carries the burden of grief alone. Joachim went back to his sheep in the fields. His despair is obvious. He seems unaware that an angel has appeared and is standing nearby (with a message that will change his life).
	When Things Change	Anne and Joachim came together after the angel’s message that they would have a daughter. Life followed barrenness. I find it helpful to remember that things can change–even in the most unlikely of situations.
	Mary's First Bath	Birth is often shown in medieval images as a small person being given their first bath. The newborn Mary was sculpted as a small child being washed by two people on either side of tub.
	Mary Taken To The Temple	The apocryphal story of Mary’s childhood includes her parent’s choice to take and leave her at the Temple where she was to be taught. This series of three sculptures (most of the heads have been destroyed) shows Anna and Joachim discussing their decision, taking Mary, and Mary’s climb up the Temple steps. The story reminds me that big decisions involve, thoughtfulness, time to let things unfold, and great courage.
	Mary and Joseph Meet and Marry	Mary and Joseph’s meeting, marriage, return home, and sitting together before the Annunciation appear in the capital frieze at Chartres.
	Mary Greeting Elizabeth	As you think about the spiritual experiences you want to share with a trusted friend, what prayers are emerging in your body, mind, heart, and imagination? Pray them now.
	Mother and Son (The Nativity)	I remember my sons’ births and their small warm bodies next to mine. In the touch of their soft skin I felt God’s love for me and through me in new ways.

Stained Glass: The Apostle Window

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Ascending	We experience limitations; God experiences options. This Feast Day of the Ascension is full of hope.
	Relinquishing Control	What does a person need to experience in order to give her or his life to God? There may be many answers, but the most important is the one God uses in any given life.
	Suffering and Presence	I find a part of myself in each face of a disciple looking at Jesus’ wounds after the resurrection. Their proximity to his wound seems much more important than their various emotional reactions.

Stained Glass: Good Samaritan Window

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	God's Creative Touch	Creation is very personal. It involves relationship that is often manifested very concretely–with love.
	The Breath of God	Breath is the gift of life. Every breath is a gift.
	What Moves You?	Nurturing the “soft spot,” the part of me that sees certain types of needs and wants to respond, is one way to say “Yes” to God’s invitation to love others.

Stained Glass: Life of Mary

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Mary's Birth	Birth is a miracle. It is also a mystery to ponder. Anne’s face in this scene that takes place shortly after Mary’s birth calls me to remember the birth of my sons and to wonder about my birth.
	Mary's First Bath	Our first washing follows birth, our last washing follows death. The loving care of others accompanies us as we arrive and leave this life. Remembering this helps me to breathe more deeply.
	Willing	Mary’s hands express a willingness to trust. At the same time, her face reminds me of the questions I can hold even as I say to God, “Thy will be done.”
	The Word	It is unlikely that Mary went to school, but this image of her reading highlights words–reminding viewers of the Word she later carried within. Looking at Mary, I remember how Scripture study often helps prepare me for the future.
	Surprise!	According to an ancient story Mary was twelve years old when she became engaged to Joseph, a widower with children. Life is full of surprises. I wonder what helps me learn to welcome them?
	Wedding	When I look at the hands of Mary (left) and Joseph at their wedding, I am in touch with how it is both easy and hard to follow God’s will–and how sometimes we need the help of others (the priest’s hands joining theirs in the center) in doing so.
	Yes	When medieval artists wanted to show someone saying “Yes” they placed one of their hands in front of them with the palm open as it faced the viewer. I want a “Yes” person, which isn’t always easy!
	Friendship	I treasure the privilege of being with a friend during one of life’s critical moments.
	The Nativity: Animal Companions	Tradition places the a bull and a donkey near the Christ child after his birth. While Mary reaches for her son and Joseph contemplates in this medieval image of the Nativity, Jesus looks towards his animal companions. I wonder what it was like for the Creator to know creation from inside the human experience.
	Announcement of the Shepherds	Our lives are full of moments that are influenced by things we don’t experience ourselves. Mary wasn’t present with shepherds when the angels appeared, but she thought carefully with her mind and heart about what had happened. Like Mary, pondering leads me to the deep places I long to understand more fully.
	Presentation of Jesus in the Temple	Rituals help us we stay connected with our own lives and the bigger life-story. When I look back on the services in which we dedicated our sons to God, I remember looking at them with love, hope, and a sense of needing God’s help to parent them faithfully.
	Fear	One of the things I love about studying the Bible is that there are often deeper ways to understand familiar texts. While my first reaction may be fear, focusing on what God is doing brings freedom to follow–and joy.
	Caught in the Middle	Life sometimes puts us in the middle of people and situations where we need to discern what is best. In God’s beautiful economy, I’m amazed at how often I am shown the way.
	Looking Carefully	There is so much more to each moment than we will ever know. While I can’t take all of life in, I can try to look closely at what is right in front of me.
	What Makes Life Bearable	Unspeakable things happen–sometimes to us, sometimes to others we care about. Even if nothing can change, being with those I love brings comfort.
	Horror (Massacre of Innocents)	In the face of evil, there is sometimes nothing to say. I know God hears me in the silence.
	Blessing Be Upon You	Jesus, raising his right hand in blessing, is found at the top of many windows at Chartres, including the window dedicated to the life of Mary. The more I remember that God is always present, blessing, the easier it is to see the beauty around me, to have hope, and to reach back in love.

Stained Glass: Miscellaneous

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	To Pray Like An Angel	If I had eyes all over my body how would I pray?
	Looking Up	Looking down seems more natural than looking up. How can we let ourselves miss so much?!

Stained Glass: Notre Dame de la Belle Verriere

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Beauty	How do we recognize beauty? When I look at Our Lady of the Beautiful Window with Jesus on her lap, I feel a tenderness inside. That softness announces beauty’s presence.
	Iconic Love	Icons, created in prayer, connect us with Transformative Love. Medieval images crafted from stained glass can do the same. Coming face to face with Our Beautiful Lady and her Son, I feel loved–and I feel love.
	Seeing and Being Seen	While looking at Notre Dame de la Belle Verrière, one can imagine her looking right back. I wonder what Mary’s eyes might say to me if we could meet face to face.
	Jesus's Message	God’s coming to our world in as a human baby was totally unpredictable. It seems wise to always be open to God’s breaking into our world and lives in unanticipated ways.
	The Holy Spirit	The Holy Spirit’s role in Mary’s life and Jesus’s incarnation are an important part of this image. While I don’t imagine the Holy Spirit as a dove with a halo, I do recognize the beautiful extension of light, color, and even energy that I have experienced in God’s presence.
	Queen Mary	Thinking of Mary as my “older sister” in the faith has helped me to accept God’s sometimes difficult will, as she did when she agreed to carry Jesus. This image reminds me that Mary had a unique role that far exceeds being inspirational–she was the Queen Mother of the King of Kings.
	Throne of Wisdom	Interdependence often goes unnoticed in our modern era. I look at this image and I see Mary. I look again, and see Jesus. If I look with deeper eyes, I see Jesus sitting securely on Mary’s lap. I see Mary’s hands supporting Jesus from behind.
	Halo	Looking at the blue halo surrounding Mary’s head, I long to know God better. There is deep beauty in holiness.
	Like Mother, Like Son	How did Mary “mother” God? Perhaps she just tried to mother Jesus.
	Mary's Veil	There is a piece of cloth at Chartres that Mary may have worn at the Annunciation and/or birth of Jesus. When I am near it, I feel close to Christ.
	Who is Looking at Whom?	How wonderfully mysterious that a two-dimensional stained glass window can help me to feel God looking into the depths of who I am.
	Sky Blue	The twelfth century blue stained glass in this window makes me think of the sky, its moods, and its magnificence.
	Beautiful Change	Around the three original twelfth-century panels of Mary and Jesus are a series of panels added in the thirteenth century after a fire caused its repositioning and “updating.” The title “Beautiful Window” (Belle Verrière) was given to windows like this one that incorporated glass from different periods. While distressing, change can also plant the seeds of new and even lovely possibilities. Reminders like this “beautiful window” help me to feel glimmers of hope–especially when I am feeling loss.
	Angels	The eight angels placed above and beside Mary and Jesus are telling me, “Look to the Center. Praise God!”
	Angels' Support	Four angels holding pillars support Mary, Throne of Wisdom, and Jesus who sits on this throne blessing the world. The scene reminds viewers of The Ark of God’s Covenant with God’s people, and the Holy of Holies where God dwelt. As Advent draws to a close I see Emmanuel, God with us, supported by his mother, Mary, who in turn is sustained by God’s help (angels).
	Stars	Stars shine in the darkness. They beg us to reach toward realities we will never experience. Silently, they open our hearts to hope. As the night to remember angels singing God’s praise in a star-lit sky approaches, I remember how stars have been symbolically linked to Mary, Jesus’ mother. As I look at these flower-shaped stars, I long for the beauty, possibility, and promise of the starry sky to become even more real to me and to our troubled world.
	Mary's Message	The story of Jesus’ first miracle, the changing of the water into wine at the wedding at Cana, is found below the large image of Mary and Jesus in the Notre Dame de la Belle Verrière window. Mary is a key figure in the story, asking Jesus to help. Like many wise mothers, she left a door open for him to respond after he indicated he didn’t want to. Mary’s words, “Do whatever he tells you.” inspire me.

Stained Glass: Noah Window

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Introducing the Noah Window	Blue is what I see when I stand in front of the Noah window without trying to understand its stories. The color transports me to memories involving the water and sky.
	Noah Window (2)	Like the creators of the medieval stained glass windows we often “read” our lives from the ground level up. The five images of carpenters at the bottom of the Noah window remind me of how sacred my work is–even when it feels very mundane.
	The Noah Window at Chartres	When things seem incomprehensible, like the story about the sons of God, the daughters of humans and the Nephilim in Genesis 6, or the images that seem to portray them in the Noah window, I try to look “through” the story, or the image, to a deeper meaning that might be hiding out of sight.
	God Speaking with Noah	God had something to difficult to communicate to Noah, yet Noah wanted to listen. Attentiveness and receptivity are two qualities I am working to cultivate.
	Noah's Family	Families have a way of discussing what is going on. I have learned that in addition to talking things out, praying for discernment is helpful.
	Doing What God Commands	Noah did all that God commanded (Gen. 6:22). I wish that I could say the same!
	The Animals Arriving	I recently read an article in National Geographic about a man who is photographing as many of the animal species on our planet as possible. With a world so full variety, why do I sometimes find it so hard to accept people who are different?
	Noah's Ark Floating on the Waters	n these very troubled times, it is easy to understand God’s discouragement with humanity. I am grateful that God has never been so disheartened as to give up.
	The Victims of The Flood	When I look at the images of the victims of the flood, my heart and mind turn to the victims of the recent atrocities around our globe.
	More Victims (of The Flood)	There is so much violence in our world. So much death. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed. I’m sure we all do.
	What Is Going On?	When we find ourselves in the midst of new situations that don’t make complete sense, we have to figure out ways to test the waters. Noah did it with a dove, in these unsettled times we need to find our own solutions.

Stained Glass: South Rose

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Meeting the South Rose Window	Meeting a stained glass window is similar to encountering someone for the first time. It helps to engage without analyzing too much.
	The Center	Red cries out, seeking my attention. My eyes respond by leading me to the center of the rose window–and as it turns out to the center of all things.
	Symbols That Still Speak	The cup (of suffering and hope). The light (of the world). Blessing (from God’s hand). These thirteenth century images still have the power to touch my life. I bow my head as I honor the beautiful and terrible Mystery of God.
	Angels	Circling Jesus in this rose window are eight angels with censors. My sense of smell is as holy as my sense of hearing, sight, touch, or taste.
	John, The Gospel Writer	An eagle, symbolizing John, the author of the fourth gospel, flies above Christ’s head in this rose. I feel happy seeing Jesus’ friends (the three other gospel writers are also found nearby) so close to him. It never ceases to amaze and delight me that God seeks a relationship with human beings–like John, and me–and you.
	What Is Needed Now	If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.
	Praying For Those Who Suffer	God, who was willing to come to our world and be murdered, understands our grief.
=	Finding Your Focus	When looking at the south rose window, do you see the glass or the tracery? Focusing on both at the same time is possible. We need to gaze at all of reality if we are going to understand what is needed–in our lives, relationships, societies, and world. I want to see what there is to see–all of it.
	Luke, The Gospel Writer	Each of the gospel writers is symbolized by a different animal. Luke is represented as an ox because of his focus on sacrifice in the gospel he wrote. Each of us shares God in our own way, based on our own interests and personality. I am grateful for the diversity in the world God created.
	Mark, The Gospel Writer	The lion is a symbol of strength, courage, dignity–even royalty. Mark, whose symbol is the lion, in part because of his emphasis on Jesus’ kingship, portrays Christ’s royal strength as power to do God’s will. In light of all that is happening in the world today, I am trying to have the courage to follow Jesus by seeking solutions to violence–not participating in creating more.
	Matthew the Gospel Writer	The gospel (book) that Matthew wrote is the focal point of this image. Contemplating its open pages, I become aware of a deep longing to make God’s story available to a world that very much needs it.
	The Worshipping Elders	Singing praise and bringing the prayers of God’s people to God, these are not the “jobs” that I would expect the twenty-four rulers closest to Christ to have. Rethinking the cultural paradigms that I have accepted, this is what God calls me to.

Stained Glass: West Rose

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	Stained Glass Flower	Meeting a stained glass window, like meeting a person, involves getting an initial sense of how it feels to be together. My heart beats faster every time I see the west rose window at the Chartres Cathedral.
	The Center of All	Medieval artists at Chartres depicted Christ the Judge as the One who lovingly understood human suffering. When I contemplate Christ the Judge in the West Window of Chartres, showing us all his bleeding wounds, I don’t feel afraid, I feel grateful, understood and connected.
	Matthew the Gospel Writer	Having one’s closest friends nearby is important. It is not surprising to find the four gospel writers in the closest circles to Christ. Matthew, depicted as an angel, holding his gospel fills the bottom circle. Seeing his proximity to the Risen Christ makes me wonder, how am I expressing my friendship with God?
	Mark and Luke Looking to Christ	Where we look matters. The gospel writers are looking to the Risen Christ. I want to focus my inner and outer gaze on the Center too.
	John the Gospel Writer	John described himself as “the one whom Jesus loved.” Would I describe myself to everyone as “the one whom Jesus loves”?
	Angels	The angels closest to the Risen Christ direct attention towards him. On this day of worship, who or what am I worshipping? Who or what is truly at the center of my life?
	The Bosom of Abraham	The bosom of Abraham, mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, represents divine justice. Like Christ who is found below this image of Abraham holding three souls, a poor man named Lazarus suffered during his life. God did not forget him. As I experience the suffering of those who struggle, may I not despair thinking God is absent.
	The Eyes of the Cherubim	As a child, I feared God’s ability to see everything I did. As an adult, I am grateful that God not only sees, but also knows everything.
	Apostles	The twelve Apostles sit, two by two, on either side of Christ. Their hands to direct attention to their Center, the Center of All. How will I use my hands to draw others to God today?
	Michael Weighing Souls	Every culture acknowledges that what we do matters. Taking time to consider on how I have acted in the past helps me to live with greater integrity and love.

Where is God: Post-Resurrection Appearances

Photo	Link to Blog	Excerpt
	The Road to Emmaus	How can I better see what is right in front of me?
	Eating with the Risen Christ (Emmaus)	Discerning God’s presence has a lot to do with what my heart knows. I want to honor its wisdom better!
	Christ Shows His Wounds	God can appear anywhere, anytime. Why is God’s appearance always such a surprise?!
	Thomas Meets the Risen Christ	As a child it scared me to think that God could “hear” my every comment. As an adult, I find it oddly comforting.
	Baptism	Forgetting that our mission as disciples is linked with Christ’s presence has plagued Christ’s followers since the beginning. It’s still a temptation that yields bitter fruit.