Sir, - It is heartening to read the sentiments expressed in Kevin Spencer's letter of March 22nd concerning new homes for stained glass windows. In recent years, we at the Abbey Stained Glass Studios have been taking out stained glass windows from convents and churches which are closing down, and altering them to fit in new suitable locations.
The Harry Clarke Studio windows from the Sacred Heart Convent in Leeson Street were restored by us and fitted into St Felim's Cathedral, in Cavan. The windows were designed and manufactured at the very same time that the cathedral was being built, and it was only by a chance meeting with the administrator, Fr John Murphy, that we found the perfect setting for them.
There are windows of high quality throughout Ireland, and hundreds of miles away within the country there is a new home awaiting them in a church setting, either old or new. The stained glass sizes can always be altered whilst retaining the subject matter, and not interfering with the traditional surrounds.
All too often, we hear of religious stained glass falling into the hands of traders whose only concern is to make a fast profit. These religious works of art may end up in a trendy bar or restaurant. Another scenario is where a convent closes and is sold, often to a semistate body, and the new owners naturally respect the stained glass windows whilst they are in their ownership.
However, in time the new owner will sell the building, complete with stained glass windows, and they may end up overlooking a bar, a disco or a billiard hall. We strongly urge any religious orders relocating their stained glass windows to have them removed and put into storage, so that in time they may be re-used, respected and appreciated in another Church setting. - Yours etc
Managing director,
Abbey Stained Glass Studios,
18 Old Kilmainham,
Dublin 8.