The stained glass window that washes our
sanctuary with shimmering light was designed
by noted Chico glass artist Elizabeth
Devereaux. Inspired by drawings in the Book
of Kells, by the qualities of the Tomales Bay
environs and passages from the Bible, she
created a stunning design that, like the fog
on the bay, filters and refracts light in
ever changing ways.
Devereaux says, “When I was commissioned to design
the Pt. Reyes Presbyterian Church eight foot Rose
Window my first thought was of the surrounding
environment which so influences the people, their
work, and their architecture. What are the elements
of this environment? The gentle rolling hills, the
trees, the fog, and above all, the water. The bay
and the sea surround the land; the tides move the
water in and out; Tomales Bay particularly is a
fertile oyster and fishing ground.”
The fish is also an ancient Christian symbol, and
Devereaux employed them to great effect in her
design. Quartered by a central Celtic cross, the
window is encircled by subtly varied fish of
various sizes. “I used intense warm tones of
transparent glass in the center, and lighter
translucent tones towards the outside. When the sun
catches the textures of the center glass it creates
a shimmering jewel effect – some have commented
‘like a kaleidoscope’. Each piece of glass is
handblown European ‘Antique’ glass, individually
chosen for its shading, its varying texture, its
bubbles, its subtle streaks. Each piece was cut to
create the effect of movement and motion. The
colors were chosen to repeat the warm tones of the
room, to act as a dramatic focus, and to create a
sacred light which welcomes, informs, and
inspires.”
from ”Point Reyes Community Presbyterian Church
Stained Glass Notes”, by Elizabeth Devereaux, May
1987.