The sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church of Dunedin, Florida, was originally built in l926, a gift of Mr. and Mrs. L. B. Skinner. The building was completely remodeled in l961, at which time a narthex was added at the Scotland Street entrance, and other changes made to provide a more comodious and beautiful church edifice. During the course of the remodeling, a group of our members requested permission to secure funds for the inclusion of stained glass windows to add beauty and dignity to the church, and also to set forth in significant symbolism the cardinal doctrines of God as proclained in the reformed faith. Permission was readily granted and a special committee was appointed to secure the funds, select the themes of windows, and supervise the entire project. The two pastors were advisory members of this committee, which selected the studios of Joseph D. Meyers Associates of Tampa, Florida as the artists and craftsmen to design and install the stained glass.

The windows installed include eight large windows in the sanctuary, a half circle inset over the Highland Avenue entrance and a medallion over the choir loft. There are also three smaller windows in the narthex.

Listed herewith are the installations of glass with a brief indication of their symbolism, and a record of the donors, and, if a memorial, the names of the persons whose memory is thus recorded.

THE EIGHT LARGE WINDOWS
(Beginning with the North-east corner, in order)

A word should be said about the general design which is carried throughout all eight windows. Within a border of rich cathedral colors there is a background of pastel diamond panes characteristic of the Byzantine type of architecture of the design of the building. Woven into this background there is outlined a Celtic cross, chosen because the cross is the central theme of all Christian faith. These crosses are subdued in design so as not to present a series of marching symbolisms. They also vary in color to add individuality to each window. In the Celtic cross, a circle is found where the horizontal beam crosses the upright and it is within these circles that the symbolic representations are placed. These are all different and add distinction and individuality to each window. In the smaller windows where the cross motif is not found, the symbolic circle is still present.

There are three windows on the East side of the sanctuary, symbolizing in order the persons of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

GOD THE FATHER -- The first symbolic circle represents God as Father and Creator: a hand extends in power from clouds of glory against a background of deep blue. "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." Presented by Miss Edith Grant and Mr. Bert Grant in Memory of their parents, Alfred James and Julia Rebecca Grant.

GOD THE SON -- The medallion of the center window presents Christ as the Lamb of God. Symbolizing the suffering Saviour, the Lamb is portrayed upon the altar, against a background of blood red. "Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world." This window was presented by Doris and Townsend Scanlan.

GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT -- The third window portrays the Holy Spirit in the form of a white dove descending against a blue sky, growing out of the descent of the Spirit in the form of a dove at the baptism of Jesus. "Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." Presented by Mr. Francis L. Skinner in Memory of his father, Lee Bronson Skinner.

The four windows on the West side of the sanctuary portray in symbolism God's revelation of himself to the individual, to the nation, to the world, by his Word.

THE BURNING BUSH -- This representation is pictured by greenery aflame, yet not consumed. This revelation of God to Moses is a traditional part of the seal of Presbyterianism. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." This window was given by Susan Brumby Skinner in Memory of loved ones.

THE COMMANDMENTS -- God revealed hinnself to the nation of Israel at Mount Sinai and sealed his covenant by giving them the ten commandments. These are symbolized by the familiar tables of stone. "Now these are the precepts which thou shalt set before them." This is called the Deacons' window. It was given by a group of Deacons.

THE LAMP -- This is called the congregation's window because it emembraces many gifts both large and small from members who wished to share in this project. It pictures God's revelation of himself through Jesus Christ, the light of the world. The familiar "Chi Rho" (the first two letters in the Greek spelling of Christ) is seen in the background. "No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath revealed Him."

THE SCRIPTURES -- The fourth window presents God's revelation through His Word, symbolized by the Bible. "Thy Word giveth light." Presented by Mrs. Elizabeth Skinner Jackson in Memory of her mother, Mary Eleanor Skinner.

The nine lovely hanging cathedral lights which lend softness and dignity to the sanctuary lighting were given by Mrs. Harrison E. Smith in Memory of her sister, Irene P. Razey.

Many other contributions were made by members of the congregation which were used in making perfect the general plan of beautification of this, God's House. All of these gifts were given by a grateful people to the glory and praise of God, and in humble acknowledgement of His great goodness to us all.

Prepared by Thomas P. Johnston, Former Pastor