As the focus of a parish Lenten Evening of Reflection on the spirituality and iconography of stained glass windows, Joseph Beyer, of The Beyer Studio of Philadelphia, will present a talk March 20 at 7 p.m. on the ancient craft and the stories associated with a particular group of windows from St. Francis of Assisi Church, Philadelphia.

An historic collection of 16 stained glass windows, rescued from St. Francis of Assisi Church in Philadelphia’s historic Germantown neighborhood, is set to adorn the new Holy Cross Church in Rumson. The Beyer Studio of Philadelphia, specialists in the relocation of sacred stained glass windows, has been chosen to perform the restoration.

The recent decommissioning of St. Francis of Assisi Church, the result of changing urban demographics, virtually eliminated any chance that these works of art could ever receive the care they now require.  Approaching 90 years of age, they suffer from many of the problems that threaten old stained glass windows. 

The collection was the work of the renowned designer and mural painter Nicola D’Ascenzo (1871-1951).  A few of his more notable commissions include St. John the Divine Cathedral in New York, the Folger Shakespeare Library and the National Cathedral, both in Washington, and the Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge, as well as numerous churches throughout the United States.  

In addition to the 16 windows from Philadelphia, the Studio will also be restoring three historic windows from the old Holy Cross Church.  The work of John Morgan, one of the earliest stained glass studios in the U.S., these early American windows will represent a direct connection with the local history of Rumson.   

The presentation will be made in the gym at 30 Ward Avenue, Rumson.  A reception will follow the presentation.  For information, call 732-842-0348, ext. 1123.