The Rose Window
The Rose Window is located over the east portal to all souls’ church. It is 14 feet in diameter. Below it, on the wall, is a bronze tabled that was not put in place until after the window had been completed and dedicated. It reads “In loving memory of Sarah Woodward Sergeant, 1845-1936." This windows was made possible by the generous gift of her daughter Louise Sergeant, 1872-1940. This window recalls, too, the faithful work of the woman’s association of this church, 1912-1939. Dedicated October 29, 1939”.
The window is called a rose window from its circular shape, not from its color. It is designated as a symbol of the Revelation of St. John the Divine. Its inspiration is found in Revelation 1:11 where the seven churches in Asia are named. Kneeling angelic figures in the central member and the six principal four-lobed sections bear little golden and crimson buildings that are symbolic of the churches to which the saint addressed his inspired message. The churches are named in accompanying scrolls. Thyatira is in the center. The others, beginning with Ephesus at the top, are in clockwise order around the window: Pergamos, Laodicea, Philadelphia, Sardis, Smyrna.
In the outer sections of the twelve flame-shaped members that are in pairs between the panels of the churches, are nimbed, descended doves representing the Holy Spirit (as in the north transept window), yet twelve in number, recalling the twelve apostles. In the inner sections of these members are twelve flames suggesting the passionate zeal of the saints, and twelve stars indicating their steadfast faith. In the six wing-shaped outer members of the design are six cherubim who know and worship God. They are shown symbolically with heads and wings only. The prevailing color of the window is the contemplative color representing divine wisdom.