The Presentation in the Temple

In loving appreciation of Paul Joseph and Aileen Poole Oeland. Luke 2:22-39

The subject of this window is the presentation by Mary and Joseph of their son to the priest at the Temple in Jerusalem, in accordance with Jewish custom. The little group is framed by columns which form part of a screen. In the left foreground sits a basket with its offering of two young pigeons.

The priest is a splendid figure richly vestured in shades of gold, and Mary again wears white and blue. Joseph's attention is fastened on Mary, who appears to be in the act of handing the Child to the priest for his blessing. She and the priest gaze steadfastly at each other -- perhaps he is telling her something. The Child again looks past the little scene and out at the viewer. The cross within the halo that rings his head is red -- the color of the Holy Spirit, and of sacrifice.

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