Call #4, Fall 2008
Trinity Church, Cliffside Park
Rose Window Preservation
No one remembers exactly why Trinity Church, Cliffside Park decided to install plastic coverings over several of their stained glass windows sometime in the 1970s. Everyone was doing it. “Experts” convinced congregations all over the country that these coverings would provide easy maintenance, be more soundproof, prevent water damage, lower heating bills, and deter vandalism. But as Clare Boothe Luce archly commented, no good deed goes unpunished. When Trinity leaders removed the unvented and now yellowed acrylic covering from their north facing rose window this year, they discovered that the wood frame, integral to the window, had deteriorated so badly, the glass was in danger of falling out. “One good nor’easter, and this window will be blown in all over the altar,” says Jim Caputo, diocesan property manager.
It happened like this: The space between protective glazing and a stained-glass window is like a greenhouse. Moisture condenses on the window and drips onto its frame, causing it to rot. The window's seals, putty, and cames are attacked by bacteria that thrive in the warm moisture. The damage is hidden behind the protective covering. By the time the problem becomes visible, the window and frame are in terrible shape. Fortunately Trinity’s lead cames are still in good condition making a repair less expensive that it might be.
The Rev. Willie Smith, Trinity’s rector, and the vestry have decided that the upwards of $50,000 cost of full restoration is not feasible right now. They do, however, want this beautiful and valued part of their church to be reinstalled at some point after other more pressing building issues are resolved.
This BCEF call # 4 will allow Trinity to carefully crate the rose window for future restoration and replace it with a clear window. One third of the $14,000 cost will be borne by Trinity, the rest by the generosity of BCEF members. Without our help, it is only a matter of time before a storm will eliminate this object of devotion and beauty forever.
In Peace,
The Rt. Rev. Mark M. Beckwith
Bishop of Newark
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