Gazing at the stained-glass windows in Old First’s sanctuary is a breathtaking experience. Members of the congregation gave generously to support the cost of creating and placing the expensive individual panels. The world’s most renowned stained-glass artists and studios were engaged, which includes the stunning work of Otto Heinigke, William Willet, and Tiffany Studios.
Because time, weather, and city life have compromised the windows, a restoration process has begun. The first window to be restored: the Samaritan Woman at the Well as she listens to the revelations of Christ. This amazing artwork was created by the Tiffany Studio. Restoration of all of the windows will be long term, and we’ll be sure to keep you posted.
The Three Seasons of Life triptych is a prime example of late nineteenth century American stained glass. Created by Otto Heinigke of the Heinigke & Bowen studio. The parables from left to right illustrate “The Sower” in memory of Oscar Schenck, “The Good Shepherd” in memory of Mary Jane Gaul Van Orden, and “The Vineyard” in memory of James Ray Lott. Photo: 2017 Vera Nieuwenhuis
Single window, “Christ Healing the Sick”, an early William Willet design made by Heuser and Hausleiter studio, donated in memory of Dr. Theodore I. Mason by his children. Photo: ca 2009 Jane Barber
The Carroll Street triptych was created by three studios. From left to right the windows are “The Prodigal Son” by Otto Heinigke donated by the Suydam family, “The Parable of the Talents” from the Tiffany Studio given in memory of Jacques Cortelyou, and “The Empty Tomb” given in memory of Margaret T. Spence, a possible early William Willit glass made by Heuser and Hausleiter. On the far left the single window was created by the Tiffany Studio, “The Samaritan Woman”, donated by Phebe Ryerson Kissam in memory of her husband George Kissam. Photo: 2006 Jane Barber
Window elements, beginning upper left and rotating clockwise: “The Samaritan Woman” memorial panels showing classic Tiffany style typography; two details of Otto Heinigke’s “The Prodigal Son”, the first revealing triple layers of glass within the robe motif and below, memorial panels of the same window showing decorative work that includes glass “gemstone” rocks, photos ca 2009 Jane Barber; closeup of “The Parable of the Talents”, Tiffany Studio, photo 2017 Vera Nieuwenhuis.
Closeup of the Great Rose Window over the Seventh Avenue entrance, Old First. Photo: 2006 Jane Barber
Welcome
Old First Reformed Church is a community of Jesus Christ in Brooklyn, offering a space of unconditional welcome, a practice of worship and service, and a vision of God’s love and justice for all. All are welcome!
Whether you’re looking for a church home or just visiting, join us anytime.
Opportunities
The Remembrance and Racial Justice Working Group The working group meets every other Sunday, please refer to the church calendar. Learn more here.
HousingPlus
Old First supports HousingPlus who provides housing and services for women to overcome poverty, homelessness, addiction, trauma, and effects of incarceration. Find out more here.
CHiPS
On the second Saturday of every month we gather to cook and deliver a meal to CHiPS. Learn more about Old First and CHiPS here.
