• The Agony in the Garden

The Agony in the Garden

Window Description:

The event of the Agony in the Garden is featured in the window to the right of the high altar. For several decades this window and its accompanying one on the other side (Window with the Resurrection of Christ) were concealed in an attempt to simplify the visual program in the sanctuary. In the summer of 2003 Rev. Mgsr. Swetland, under the guidance of special committee assigned to oversee the refurbishment of the Chapel, decided to uncover the windows. Longtime members of St. John's community agree that this set of windows greatly enhances the interior of the church as well as adds to the spiritual life of the Chapel community.

The Gospels tell us that after the Last Supper Christ retired to a garden with his disciples to pray. Each Gospel offers a slightly different account with regards to narrative details. For instance the Gospels of Mark and Matthew describe Christ as "falling flat" on the ground to pray, while that of Luke has him kneeling in prayer and latter ministered to by an angel. As he prays he speaks the quotes found in the banderole above and cartouche blow, "My soul is sorrowful even unto death." (Matt. 26: 38) and "Father if it is possible, let this chalice pass from me." (Matt. 26: 36-46) The presence of the Father is not directly mentioned and only implied indirectly in Christ's speech.

The artist who designed the window did not follow a particular Gospel and instead offers a unique interpretation, one in keeping with the spirit of the Gospels, however. In the window we see Christ in a wooded area on his knees in prayer, his hands resting on a rocky ledge. Golden rays from heaven stream down upon him and make visual the presence of the Father as well as his reception to his son's prayers. God the Father is depicted variously in Christian art: as a hand or rays emerging from clouds; as an old man; or as the Son, Christ. The artist's special contribution to the scene is the visual reference to God.

The Agony in the Garden Window with its image of Our Lord in prayer is a visual reminder to visitors to Saint John's Chapel of the importance of prayer to the Christian life. Its location in the sanctuary, the most visible part of the church, at least for the congregation, makes this message a central one in the stained glass program. All who spend time in prayer in the Chapel will find inspiration in the scene of Christ in prayer.

--Paula Carns, M.S., Ph.D.