The three-lancet window in the music room was designed to indicate the role music has played through the ages in the service of religion. At the top of the central lancet is the figure of Christ holding a chalice, the smaller figures of Apostles surrounding Him. This central scene illustrates the essential part music had in the conduct of worship of even the earliest of Christians. The specific instance represented here is that of the Last Supper, when Christ instituted the Sacrament of Communion. 'And when they had sung a hymn, they went out into the Mount of Olives.' (MATTHEW 26:30)

Beneath this, also in the central lancet, are two further references to music in Biblical times. Miriam, sister of Moses, is seen accompanying herself on a timbrel, singing a song of thanksgiving for the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. Her song is, perhaps, the first piece of liturgical music. These words, taken from Exodus 15, are still sung in the synagogue as part of the service. David, the Psalmist, is shown kneeling with his harp. The Psalms, which he authored, are, again, an integral part of our worship service today.

The left lancet pictures the composers of some of the hymns we use in contemporary worship services: Luther, Palestrina, Bach and Wesley.

The right lancet illustrates the music of the First Methodist Church: the organist, choir mistress and the junior and senior choirs that add the beauty of their music to all our worship services.

Through the top of all the lancets are seen the heavenly host, the angels of God, eternally praising Him, playing various types of ancient instruments.

Dr. Luther Reed says in his book, WORSHIP: 'Religion is the deepest concern of the human spirit. Music is the most powerful exponent of human emotion. It is natural, therefore, that music should reach its greatest heights---attain to its purest expressions---in the service of religion.'

 

Notice the name "C. Wesley" inscribed in the glass window by the artist.

In this portion of the stained glass you will notice the artist has inscribed "The Ministry of Music" showing the church organist and choir director with the youth choir.

Information on the stained glass windows comes from the book "The Windows and Symbolism of First Methodist Church, Birmingham, Michigan", edited by Dr. Arnold F. Runkel and privately published by the church for its members in 1966.