“From the Archives” — “Bull’s Eye” Windows

Throughout the Basilica of Saint Mary, near the ceiling, are a number of small, round or “bull’s eye” windows. Installed at various points in the history of the parish, the windows are not dedicated to specific parishioners but are interesting because of their symbolism.

Windows on the left (north) side, from the main entrance to the church: 1. White rose. A symbol of purity. The thorns are reminders of guilt since there are no thorns in Paradise. The white rose symbolizes Mary. 2. Chalice, bread, grapes and wheat. All symbols of the Holy Eucharist. 3. The Keys to the Kingdom. They symbolize Saint Peter and the papacy. 4. Heart with thorns. Symbolizes the Sacred Heart of Jesus, as described by Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque.

Windows on the right (south) side of the church, from the main entrance: 1. House of Gold. A title of Mary from the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Child she “housed” in her body was Jesus, more precious than gold. 2. Lamb with banner and cross. Symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus and the Eucharist, representing Christ’s victory over sin and death. 3. Chalice and grapes. Symbols of the Eucharist. 4. Pelican. According to ancient tradition, a mother pelican would nourish her young by feeding them with her own blood. This sacrifice symbolizes Jesus, who shed His blood for our redemption.

Windows on the north gallery: 1. IHS. The Greek letters iota, eta and sigma, the first three letters of the name of Jesus in Greek (Iesous). The Jesuits, who served Saint Mary parish in its early years, used IHS as an emblem. 2. IHS, again. This window is in the confessional. 3. Dove. In the Old Testament, the dove symbolizes peace and purity; in Christianity, it symbolizes the Holy Spirit.

Windows on the south gallery: 1. Sheaf of wheat. Symbol of the Eucharist. 2. Grapes within a cross. Symbol of the Eucharist, the blood of Christ. 3. “MA” with a background of stars. Ancient Latin monogram of Mary, Matera Amabilis. A Mary also is often called “Star of the Sea.” 4. Red roses within a cross. Red signifies martyrdom, loss of life, a symbol of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

Windows on the sides of the sanctuary: 1. Dove descending. Refers to Pentecost and the descent of the Holy Spirit. 2. Heart pierced with a sword, encircled by roses. A symbol of Mary; the sword refers to her seven sorrows.