About The Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CORAOPOLIS

The history of the Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis is tied to the history of Coraopolis, Moon Township, Forest Grove, and other surrounding areas, as well as, to the history of changes within the US Presbytery.

Many people are puzzled that Coraopolis had two very large Presbyterian congregations with churches on opposite corners of Fifth avenue. One of the reasons was that after the Civil War, there were disagreements within the churches over topics such as Darwinism, racial segregation, roles of women, and other progressive ideas. This resulted in divisions with the church. In addition, Presbyterian membership was high enough to support two large churches. 

The Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis was created in April of 1990 when the congregations of Greystone Church and Mt. Calvary merged and held their first worship service together.  Declining membership numbers were one factor in the merger – in 1960, combined membership was 1,860. By 1990 it was 545.  Another factor was changes within the Presbytery.

Prior to 1882, the Methodist Episcopal Church was the only church in Middletown (Coraopolis). Presbyterians had to make what was then a tiresome trip to Sharon Church in Moon Township or to Forest Grove Church in Robinson Twp. Both trips could be impossible in bad weather. Occasionally the minister from Sharon Church would hold services in the old schoolhouse which was located at State and Main.

History of the First Presbyterian Church of Middletown (Coraopolis)/Mt. Calvary

The First Presbyterian Church of Middletown (former name of Coraopolis) held its first organizational meeting on December 21, 1882. The meeting was held in its newly constructed wooden church, located at Fifth Avenue and Broadway, on the site donated by James Harvey McCabe, Sr. The funds to build the church were raised by Sarah Russell McFadden, the daughter of a riverboat captain. Sarah started a bible class and personally raised about $2,000 ($51,000 in 2021 dollars) by taking donations at her class. This money was used to construct the wooden church. Persons from the Forest Grove Presbyterian Church, Sharon Presbyterian in Moon, and 6 others were received into membership. Many of these original members’ names can still be found on streets in the area or memorialized on the beautiful stained glass windows in the current building.

From the Forest Grove Presbyterian Church:

Ferrees - J. F. Ferree, Mrs. Nancy Ferree, Mrs. Mary Ferree, William A. Ferree, Harry W. Ferree, Miss Sadie L. Ferree

Keifer, Miss Maria

Knopff, H.A.,Mrs. A. Knopff

Lighthill, James K. (Civil War Veteran) & his wife Angelina

McCabe, Alfred, Mrs. Margaret McCabe, W.P. McCabe, J. H. McCabe, Mrs. Dorcas McCabe. J.D. McCabe, Miss E.F. McCabe

McCague, Mrs. Mary J.

McConkle, Dr. R. F. , Mrs. Sarah McConkle

Nesbit, William K. , Miss E.A. Nesbit & Miss Nettie Nesbit

Sharp, Mrs. Nancy

Stoddard, A.L., Mrs. C. Stoddard,

Watson, Miss Mannie A.,

Woods, J.M., Mrs. Sarah Woods

From Sharon Presbyterian Church:

Curry, Mrs. Rebecca L.

Kendel, Mrs. Sarah O.

Lashel, Mrs. Sarah A.

McFadden, Miss Sarah & her sister Miss Ann McFadden

Neely, Mrs. Sarah

Reiter, Mrs. Eliza J.

Torrence, Mrs. Mary

Watson, Mrs. Amanda

White, Mrs. Margaret

In 1892, a membership of 200 created the need for a larger structure, and the wooden building was moved to the corner of the property and sold to the Episcopalians. A new red brick structure was built and dedicated in 1892. In 1896 it was renamed The First Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis.

By 1914, the membership approached 800, and steps to fund a larger building were initiated. After services on May 25, 1929, the brick church was dismantled. The members were without a church building for the next 16 months. They met with the First United Presbyterian Church for a few months, then in the Coraopolis Theatre for worship and the YMCA for Sunday school. In 1930, the new church was opened.

In 1958, with the merger of the United Presbyterian Church of North America and the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A., the church was renamed for third time as the Mt. Calvary United Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis.

History of the First United Presbyterian/Greystone Church

In September 1886, the First United Presbyterian Church was formed.  Nineteen members were received, and the congregation met in the small, wooden Methodist Episcopal Church at the corner of Fifth and Main streets. In 1888, the first church building was erected of wood at 848 Fifth Avenue. It was destroyed by fire in 1895.

A second brick church was built in December of 1895 on State Avenue opposite School Street with a capacity of 300. In 1914, membership reached 400, and a new building was constructed between State and Fifth Avenue next to Broadway. This stately building was damaged by a major fire on May 10, 1945.

In 1958, with the merger of the United Presbyterian Church of North America and the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A., the church was renamed as the Greystone United Presbyterian Church.

First members included:

Hendrickson, William and Mrs. Hendrickson

Hicks, Mr. and Mrs. John Hicks

Johnson, Mrs. Kate

Marshall, Samuel and Effie L.

McAdams, G. W. and Mrs. Maggie McAdams

McElravy, Miss Sarah

Phillips, Mrs. Martha, Miss Annie Phillips, Miss Maggie Phillips

Stoops, William and Miss N.W. Stoops, Miss Bessie Stoops

Watt, Mr. and Mrs. J.M.

In 1991 a merger of two congregations/two Presbyterian churches occurred.  The old Greystone Presbyterian Church congregation (across the street) merged with (the former) Mt. Calvary Presbyterian Church congregation.  The Mt. Calvary church building is the building we are currently worshipping in.  The ‘merger’ of these two congregations further resulted in a new unifying name, “The Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis.

The merger was quite peaceful and helped strengthen both congregations.

Our current church building was constructed between 1927-1931.  Amazingly so, this was also during our nation’s ‘Great Depression’ era.

Our church’s stained-glass windows communicate a solid and sincere Christian faith from the time of Jesus Christ forward.

Our pastor, Reverend Doctor Thomas Petrosky. was called to be our full time, ordained, and installed pastor in June 2003.

Our pastor is the moderator of our governing board known as ‘The Session.’  The members serving on Session are known as ‘Ruling Elders.’  This remains our executive governing board.  Members of our church may contact our Ruling Elders and/or our Pastor with any inquiries regarding the life and ministry of our church.

The Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis is faith based, Biblically grounded, Presbytery responsive, musically inclined, mission minded, and truly enjoys sharing in Christian fellowship.

Our members are to take seriously their “calling” from God as they seek to live their lives practicing Christian standards and maturing in faith at church, at work, and especially with their respective families.

Members are expected to know and respond to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, assemble together for worship, pray for one another, and pray for our pastor.

Members are requested to contribute to our church through gifts of their prayers, sharing their abilities and talents, areas of service, financial offerings, and most importantly, through loving and serving God by further loving and serving others.

There remains an abiding reverence for God here at the Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis.  You are invited to come grow with us.  Welcome Home!

"The Ascension and Great Commission”

The balcony window is composed of five vertical panels. The far left and right panels contain two separate inserts which depict appearances of Jesus following his resurrection. 

Matthew 28:20 LO I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS is the theme of this window.

The left panel’s top insert depicts Jesus in a red robe blessing a man in a purple robe. This represents Jesus’ post resurrection appearance to Peter. Luke 24

The left panel’s bottom insert shows Jesus (red robe) blessing two men (one in green, one in purple) sitting at a table with a chalice. 

Mark 16 & Luke24: 14-18 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”

The second panel from the left shows 2 men kneeling, one with his back to us and three men looking skyward toward Jesus in the center panel. LO I AM is at the bottom

Mark 16:19 So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.

The center window (3rd from left) shows Jesus in white ascending to heaven. A man and woman are kneeling at his feet.

Luke 24:51 While He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven.

The fourth panel from the left shows a woman in red and three men looking upwards toward Jesus in the center pane.

Acts 1:9 And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.

The fifth from the left top panel shows Jesus with a sail boat, fishing net and fish. A young and older man are with him.

John 21:1–2 After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself. There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.

The fifth from the left bottom panel shows Jesus in the center (red robe) blessing a man in purple on the left and another man and woman.

John 21: 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

The brass plate below the window reads: 

Given in loving memory of Charles Benton Ferguson (1873-1929) and Charles Benton Ferguson Jr. (1909-1928)

A son of this church

A loyal disciple of the strong son of God.

This window was donated by Mr. and Mrs. F.W. Harmon (grandparents of Charles Jr.) and Mrs. C.B. Ferguson in memory of C.B. Ferguson and Charles Ferguson, Jr.

Charles Ferguson Jr. (1909-1928) was the son of Charles Benton Ferguson (1873-1929) and Rosetto Harmon Kelso Ferguson (1878-1962). Rosetto was the daughter of Frederick William Harmon and Emma Sophia Wickenhouser. Charles Ferguson Jr. died at a young age of encephalitis. His father, a banker, died the next year. His mother Rosetta later remarried Dr. John C. Kelso.

Narthex (Entry way) Windows

Two windows face each other in the entry way from Broadway.  These windows are 17 feet tall and continue into the balcony area. The fruit and vines theme continues in these windows. They represent two of the Beatitudes, a series of Bible verses in which Jesus pronounces blessings upon people either because of who they are (“the poor”) or because of what they do (“the peacemakers”). For example, he says, “Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth” (Matt 5:5). The word “beatitudes” comes from a Latin word for “blessing.

The window on the left when you enter indicates “Blessed are the Merciful”. A pomegranate plant is in the center. 

In Christianity, the pomegranate is a symbol of the resurrection and the hope of eternal life. Because of its abundance of seeds, it can also symbolize royalty and the church, where the seeds represent the many believers who make up the one universal church. 

Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”

There is no dedication under this window.

The window on the right when you enter indicates “Blessed are the Pure in Heart”. A large lily is in the center.

In Christianity, the lily is a symbol of chastity and purity.  It is portrayed in the art forms of early Christian paintings, typically resting in a vase. The flower is also associated with Mary.

Matthew 5:8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. ”

The brass plaque under this window states:

In memory of Elizabeth D Byers long time teacher and friend of youth

Elizabeth D. Byers (Lizzie) (1852 - 1921) was the daughter of Samuel J. Byers (1820-1887) and Elizabeth Shoop (1824-1909). Elizabeth had a brother Addison Zeno (1854 – 1909) who died in a sanitorium. Lizzie came to Coraopolis in 1883 and immediately aligned herself with Sunday school work which she continued for 35 years. Elizabeth was a professor of music and vocal coach (as was her father).  She lived at 1126 State Avenue.

Chancel (Altar) Windows

Five “lancet” windows representing four of the apostles who authored the Gospels and Jesus face the congregation over the altar under the Rose window.  These windows convey the idea that Christ is the “Word” and that the Word has been narrated by the 4 evangelists.

The first window on the left represents the apostle Matthew. Matthew is shown wearing a green robe and is holding a pen and tablet.

The apostle Matthew, also called Levi, was the son of Alphaeus and the brother of the apostle James the Less, or, James, son of Alphaeus. By profession, Matthew was a tax collector before being called by Jesus to follow Him. As a tax collector he would have been literate in Aramaic and Greek. His fellow Jews would have despised him for what was seen as collaborating with the Roman occupation force. He witnessed the Ascension of Jesus.

Matthew 9:9 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Matthew got up and followed him.

The second window from the left represents the apostle Mark.  He is shown in a purple robe holding a stone tablet. 

In Luke : 13-16 Jesus called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. John and Matthew were included, but the remaining two authors of the Gospel – Mark and Luke – were not. Mark the Evangelist is believed to be the 'John Mark' referred to in the Acts of the Apostles, the history of the early Church found in the Canon of the New Testament. He was the son of Mary of Jerusalem (Acts 12:12) whose home became a meeting place for the apostles. He is also the cousin of St. Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), a Levite and a Cypriot.

The center window represents Jesus. He is depicted in a white robe, pointing skyward with his right hand and holding a book with the Greek letter A for alpha on the left and O for Omega on the right.

Jesus proclaimed Himself to be the “Alpha and Omega” in Revelation 1:8, 11; 21:6; and 22:13. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the beginning and the end.

Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Revelation 21:6 He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.”

Revelation 22:13  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

The fourth window from the left represents the apostle Luke.  Luke is shown in a red and purple robe holding a quill and tablet.

Luke was born in Antioch and was highly educated. His studies included Greek philosophy, medicine, and art in his youth. He was also a professional physician. St. Luke came to Jerusalem where he came to believe in the Lord. He and Cleopas met the resurrected Lord on the road to Emmaus. After Pentecost, Luke returned to Antioch and worked with the Apostle Paul, traveling with him to Rome, and converting Jews and pagans to the Christian Faith.  He had become a disciple of the apostle Paul and later followed Paul until his [Paul's] martyrdom. The Early Church Fathers ascribed to him authorship of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, which would mean Luke contributed over a quarter of the text of the New Testament, more than any other author.

The fifth window from the left represents the apostle John. John is shown in a green robe and is the only apostle of the four shown without a beard.

John the Apostle was the son of Zebedee and the younger brother of James, son of Zebedee (James the Greater). According to Church tradition, their mother was Salome which made him a cousin of Jesus. He was thought to be first a disciple of John the Baptist. John is traditionally believed to be one of two disciples (the other being Andrew) recounted in John 1: 35-39, who upon hearing the Baptist point out Jesus as the "Lamb of God", followed Jesus and spent the day with him. John was known as an apostle, author and the only apostle who did not die from martyrdom. John wrote 5 books in the New Testament – the Gospel according to John, First, Second and Third John, and the book of Revelations.

These windows were donated by Mrs. Henry G. White in memory of her parents and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Robert B Kendall and Miss Lilian C. Kendall.

Helen Kendall White (1881-1944) was the daughter of Robert B. Kendall (1820-1908) and Sarah Obey Rankin Kendall (1842-1920) and the sister of Lillian C. Kendall (1871-1903). Helen married Henry Graves White, a real estate agent born in New York. Helen’s mother lived with Helen and her husband on Main Street in Coraopolis in 1910, after the death of her daughter and father. They later moved to Hiland Avenue with their daughter Lillian.

Chapel Windows– Broadway facing

Three windows, each with two panels, grace the chapel on the Broadway facing side. These windows represent the Reformed and Presbyterian church heritage. The six side window medallions carry the historic seals of the six communions of the Reformed family.

First window on the left, left pane

Central medallion - a candle, surrounded by stars on a gold background.

LVX LVCET IN TENEBRIS (Light shines in the Darkness) in inscribed in a ring around the candle. 

FERT - Another circular band around this repeats the word FERT. This word seems to be a derivation of an archaic Latin word meaning He Suffers.

Waldesian is inscribed below the medallion. The Waldensians are an ascetic movement within Christianity, reputedly founded by Peter Waldo in Lyon around 1173. The Waldensian movement first appeared in Lyon in the late 1170s and quickly spread to the Cottian Alps in what is today France and Italy.

First window on the left, right pane

Central medallion features a bird with a crest on the left and a key on the right. The bird and key are from the flag of Geneva. The eagle symbolizes loftiness, justice and protection. The key symbolizes ecclesiastical rule, treasuries, and responsibility (and one of the two keys of St. Peter -the "keys of heaven").

Post Tenebrus Tux with IHS below is above the bird and key. Post Tenebrus Lux is translated from Latin as light after darkness.  

Constitoire de leglise nat protest de Geneve – loosely translated from French as the National Protestant Church of Geneva

GENEVA is below the medallion.

Center window, left pane

Central medallion features a representation of the burning bush with the image of the four letter Hebrew word Yahweh (יְהוָֹה ) over it. The date AD MDLIX (1560) is below it in commemoration of the Protestant’s revolt in France, where they seized catholic Churches and held Protestant services in them.

FLAGNON NON CONSUMOR (It burns without being consumed) is inscribed above the medallion.

ECCLESTAE IN GALLIA REFORMATAE (Reformed Churches in France) is inscribed below the medallion.

HUGENOT is inscribed below the medallion. Hugenots were French Protestants of the 16th–17th centuries. Largely Calvinist, the Huguenots suffered severe persecution at the hands of the Catholic majority, and many thousands emigrated from France.

Center window, right pane

Central medallion features a chalice, a book and a laurel sprig and the phrase EV.RFF.KOLINSKI PECET CIRKVE (Seal of the Evangelical Reformed Church).

 An eagle with a crown (the St. Wenceslas’ eagle) is on the left. 

A lion with a crown and a double tail (the symbol of Bohemia and whole Czech lands) is on the right.

A banner with VERITAS OMNIA VINCET (Truth Conquers All) is below the medallion.

CZECHO – SLOVAKIAN is at the bottom.

Right window, left pane

Central medallion features a representation of the burning bush with a small dove above it.

NEC TAMEN CONSUMEBATUR (Yet it was not consumed) surrounds the bush. This is the motto of the Church of Scotland

SCOTTISH is printed below.

Right window, right pane

Central medallion features an open Bible. The left page says The Word of God 1Peter 1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.   

The right page contains “the figure of a brazen serpent suspended from a cruciform pole uplifted in a wilderness”.  Upon the background of the field and behind the central figure, a miniature of the emblem upon the seal of the Kirk of Scotland, namely a burning bush within a radiating circle of rays of light. A decorative wreath of palm upon the lower margin of the oval field, and in corresponding position upon the upper margin, the motto, “Christus Exaltatus Salvator,” (Christ the Savior be Praised) and upon the upper margin of the page itself, the Scriptural reference, “John 3:14.” The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. A semicircular wreath of branches of palm are placed upon the upper margin of the circular field, and in corresponding position below the Book, a wreath of olive and oak combined.

The Seal of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the United States is written around the medallion.

PRESBYTERIAN USA is below.

A large window facing Fifth Avenue honors 5 men who were important to this church.

John Calvin (1509 – 1564) was a French theologian, pastor and reformer in Geneva during the Protestant Reformation. He was a principal figure in the development of the system of Christian theology later called Calvinism, aspects of which include the doctrines of predestination and of the absolute sovereignty of God in salvation of the human soul from death and eternal damnation, in which doctrines Calvin was influenced by and elaborated upon the Augustinian and other Christian traditions. Various Congregational, Reformed and Presbyterian churches, which look to Calvin as the chief expositor of their beliefs, have spread throughout the world.

John Knox (c. 1514 –1572) was a Scottish minister, theologian, and writer who was a leader of the country's Reformation. He was the founder of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland.

John Witherspoon (1723 –1794) was a Scottish-American Presbyterian minister and a Founding Father of the United States.  Witherspoon embraced the concepts of Scottish common sense realism, and while president of the College of New Jersey (1768–1794; now Princeton University), became an influential figure in the development of the United States' national character. Politically active, Witherspoon was a delegate from New Jersey to the Second Continental Congress and a signatory to the July 4, 1776, Declaration of Independence. He was the only active clergyman and the only college president to sign the Declaration. Later, he signed the Articles of Confederation and supported ratification of the Constitution.

John McMillan (1752 – 1833) The Rev. John McMillan DD was born in Fang's Manor, Chester County, Pennsylvania in1752; died in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania in 1833. He was a prominent Presbyterian minister and missionary in Western Pennsylvania when that area was part of the American Frontier. He is known as the father of Presbyterianism in Western Pennsylvania. The Reverend John McMillan is also hailed as "The Apostle of the West" because of his efforts to bring Presbyterianism to the western frontier before and after the Revolutionary War. He was known for his endurance, booming voice and dominating will. After graduation at Princeton in 1772 he studied theology, was licensed to preach in 1774, and performed missionary service in Maryland, western Virginia, and western Pennsylvania. His early efforts began in Chartier’s Valley about 1775 and continued until 1787 or 99 when the first log church was built and called “Montour’s Meeting House”.  Robert Vance, one of the founders of what is now Coraopolis, was a member of this church. He founded the first school west of the Allegheny Mountains, which is now known as John McMillan's Log School. He is one of the founders of Washington & Jefferson College. He is buried at Chartier’s Hill United Presbyterian Church.

Samuel C. Jennings (1803 – 1885) – Dr. Samuel Carnahan Jennings was a physician and minister who served at Sharon Presbyterian church for over 50 years. He was born near Burgettstown, PA to Ebenezer and Mercy Chidester Jennings. He was orphaned at age 5 and was raised by his uncle Rev. Jacob Jennings, MD. (He had 2 uncles who were both MDs and ministers.) He graduated Jefferson College (now Washington and Jefferson) in 1823. He entered Princeton Seminary in 1824. In 1829 he became pastor of Sharon Presbyterian Church. He also organized a church on Neville Island. He resigned from Sharon in 1879 but then preached at the Riverdale church in Shousetown for 2 years. At one time he was preaching at multiple churches. He preached candlelight services at the schoolhouse at Main and Fifth. He also preached the first sermon at the first Coraopolis Presbyterian church that was built on the existing property.

On the brass plaque below the window:

Chapel windows and furnishings given for the glory of God and in memory of James Harvey McCabe, charter elder, his wife Dorcas Reed McCabe, charter member, and son William Reed McCabe, deacon and church treasurer.

James Harvey McCabe (1814-1891) was born in Coraopolis to James E. and Jane (Vance) McCabe. He was the grandson of Robert Vance, one of the founders of Coraopolis.  He donated the land that the church now occupies. He married Dorcas Reed of Clinton in 1839. They lived in Moon Township and were the parents of 9 children. William Reed McCabe (1846-1922) was their eighth child. He never married and lived with his parents in Moon, then with his younger brother John on Chestnut St. He worked in the oil industry. They are all buried in the Coraopolis Cemetery.

The six 17 feet tall windows that line the sanctuary describe important happenings in the life of Christ in chronological order. These windows, and the others in the church, have stone tracery with leaded art glass. These windows use a 14th century style grisaille background. The windows have common components with 3 scenes. Themes important to the church, such as vines and fruit are found throughout all the windows. The head of the Lord is always surrounded with a halo of white light called a nimbus. The story begins in Window 1, which is the first window on the left facing Fifth Avenue. This window depicts three stories in the very early life of Jesus. 

The scene on the left shows an angel with three shepherds below. The angel is announcing the birth of Christ.

Luke 2:8-12  And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the LORD appeared to them, and the glory of the LORD shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

The center scene includes Joseph, with Mary holding the baby Jesus.

Isaiah 9:6 – For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

The scene on the right includes Joseph, with Mary riding a burro and carrying Jesus. This refers to their flight to Egypt.

Matthew 2:13-21 When they had gone, an angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt.

The brass plate below the window reads:  

To the Glory of God and in loving memory of Harry Woods Ferree, a charter member

Harry Woods Ferree (1858 – 1928) was the son of Jacob Forbes Ferree (1824 – 1895) and his wife Nancy Jane Phillips. Jacob was a farmer in Moon Township. Harry had 5 siblings - William, Walter, Robert, Sadie and Lillie. Harry married Nettie A. Nesbit in 1886 and lived at 1644 State Avenue. He worked as a foreman in a car works. Harry and Nettie had one son, Eugene Clare. When Harry died, his wife Nettie moved to Colorado and lived with Eugene and his wife (Elise P. Bellmore). Harry is the grandson of Jacob LeFevre Ferree (1750-1807), a revolutionary war veteran and early settler of Coraopolis. The DAR branch in Moon is named after Jacob. Ferree Street in Coraopolis abuts his original farm. Jacob is buried in a small, private cemetery near where Ridge Avenue ends at rt 51. Harry is interned in Coraopolis Cemetery.

This window was donated by Mrs. Harry W. Ferree in memory of Mr. Ferree on their 40th anniversary.

The story of Jesus continues in Window 2, which is the second window on the right facing Fifth Avenue. This window depicts three stories of when Jesus was a young man.

The scene on the left shows young Jesus in the center, holding a cross in his father’s carpentry shop. Joseph is beside him (red robe) and Mary (Blue robe) is in the background.

Matthew 13:55 Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas?

The center scene shows young Jesus (about 12), surrounded by Mary, Joseph and a bearded man in the Temple.  

Luke 2:41-52 Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the festival, according to the custom. After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”

 “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”[ But they did not understand what he was saying to them.

Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

The scene on the right includes Jesus and a man in purple (John the Baptist) pouring water on his head to baptize him. They are standing by a river.

Matthew 3 13:17 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

The brass plate below the window reads:

In memory of Ada Nesbitt Ferree, William A. Ferree and Virginia Ferree Pool

Ada Nesbit Ferree (1861-1919) was the daughter of William Kerr Nesbitt and Margaret Kelso (See window 4). She married William A. Ferree (1855-1924) (brother of Harry Wood Ferree in window 1). They resided at 1512 State Ave. They had one daughter, Madeline who married E. Dexter Pool. Ada died of influenza during the flu epidemic. Her granddaughter Virginia Ferree Pool died at age 14 in 1930 of bone cancer.

This window was donated by Dexter Pool and his wife Madeline Ferree Pool (parents of Virginia Ferree Pool).

The story of Jesus continues in Window 3, which is the third window on the right facing Fifth Avenue. This window depicts three stories from the Bible.

The scene on the left shows Jesus (seated in a red robe) on the right of the Pharisee Nicodemus (purple robe).

John 3:1-21

Now there came a man of the Pharisees whose name was Nicodemus, a member of the council. He came to Jesus at night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could do the miraculous signs that you do unless God were with him.” Jesus replied, “I tell you the solemn truth, unless a person is born from above, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother’s womb and be born a second time, can he?” Jesus answered, “I tell you the solemn truth, unless a person is born of water and spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows wherever it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus replied, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you don’t understand these things? I tell you the solemn truth, we speak about what we know and testify about what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I have told you people about earthly things and you don’t believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven—the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” For this is the way God loved the world: he gave his one and only Son that everyone who believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

The center scene shows Jesus at Jacob’s well in Samaria with a Samaritan woman.  

John 4:7-17 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”

“Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”

Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life. ”Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

The scene on the right includes Jesus (red robe), Mary, sister of Martha sitting at his feet (blue robe) and Martha (purple robe).  Jesus is at Bethany, teaching Mary and Martha a lesson in service.

Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the LORD's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "LORD, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the LORD answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed-or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

The brass plate below the window reads:

In loving memory of Mrs. Emma Jane Moore Teacher and exemplar of God's word

Emma Jane Phillips Moore (1849-1919) was the daughter of Robert Phillip and Sarah Donaldson. She married James Neely Moore (1842-1936) who is listed in the census as a Commissioner of the Jury. They lived on Ridge avenue and had 4 children – Jessie K Moore Aiken, Anna Moore Speer, Robert P. Moore and Alice Darling Moore.  Emma in buried in Coraopolis cemetery.

This window was donated by the Emma Jane Moore Bible class.

The story of Jesus continues in Window 4, which is the third window on the right facing Pine alley. This window depicts three stories from the Bible.

The scene on the left shows Jesus (standing in a red robe) blessing a kneeling Peter (gold robe) after Peter’s confession.

Matthew 16:13-20 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

The center scene shows Jesus in the center with his arms raised on the Mount of Transfiguration. On the left is a man in a blue robe (Moses) holding the stones with the 10 commandments. On the right is another man in purple (Elijah). Three disciples (Peter, James and John) kneel below Jesus praying to him. This represents the Transfiguration – the Law, the Prophets, and the Gospel.  

Matt 17:1-9; Mark 9:2-9; Luke 9:28-36. After six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John up onto the mountain to pray. He suddenly became transfigured in glory, and Moses and Elijah appeared talking to him about his death.

The scene on the right features Jesus (red robe) riding a donkey. He is surrounded by 5 people waving palm fronds. This denotes Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem on the Sabbath before his crucifixion..

 Matthew 21:1-7 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the LORD needs them, and he will send them right away." This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: "Say to Daughter Zion, 'See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'" The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on.

The brass plate below the window reads:

In loving memory of William Kerr Nesbit a charter member and Margaret Kelso Nesbit

William Kerr Nesbit (1830 -1890) married Margaret Kelso (1838 - 1873) in 1860 at the First Methodist church in Clarion, PA.  William was the son of John Allen Nesbit (1792–1857) and Elizabeth McDermott (1809 - ?) Margaret was the daughter of Mark Kelso (1803-1867) and Mary Borland (1809-1867).  In the 1860 census William and Margaret were living on a farm in Moon Township with William’s mother Elizabeth Hannah McDermott Nesbit who had been widowed. Their oldest daughter was Ada Eliza Nesbit (see window 2). Margaret died in 1873 and William remarried Hannah Ewing (1846 - ?)  in 1879 at the Forest Grove Presbyterian Church.  They lived in Moon but death dates and burial are unknown.

This window was donated by Mrs. Harry Ferree (daughter of Wm. K. Nesbit).

The story of Jesus continues in Window 5, which is the second window on the right facing Pine alley. This window depicts three stories from the final days of Jesus.

The scene on the left shows Jesus (kneeling) on the right washing the feet of Peter (gold robe) while 4 disciples look on. They are observing before the Passover and instituting the Lord’s supper.

John 13:7-17 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet? ”Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet. ”Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

The center scene shows Jesus in a red robe with his hands bound on the left. A Roman soldier is in the background behind standing man and the high Sanhedrin priest Caiaphas in purple. This depicts Jesus coming before the Sanhedrin.

Matthew 26:57 Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled.

Matthew 26: 62 -67 Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” “You have said so,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” “He is worthy of death,” they answered. Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him.

The scene on the right features Jesus (red robe) with his hands bound being brought before Pontius Pilate (seated). A Roman soldier is in the background.

Mark 15: 1-15 Very early in the morning, the chief priests, with the elders, the teachers of the law and the whole Sanhedrin, made their plans. So they bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate. “Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate. “You have said so,” Jesus replied. The chief priests accused him of many things. So again Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” 5 But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed. Now it was the custom at the festival to release a prisoner whom the people requested. A man called Barabbas was in prison with the insurrectionists who had committed murder in the uprising. The crowd came up and asked Pilate to do for them what he usually did. “Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate, knowing it was out of self-interest that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead. “What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked them. “Crucify him!” they shouted. “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”  Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

The brass plate below the window reads:

In grateful remembrance of Jacob Forbes Ferree a charter elder and Nancy Phillips Ferree a chartered member

Jacob Forbes Ferree (1824 – 1895) and his wife Nancy Jane Phillips (1826-1902) farmed in Moon Township. They had 6 children; Harry (see window 1), William, Walter, Robert, Sadie and Lillie. Their children were baptized at Forest Grove Presbyterian Church. Jacob is the son of Jacob LeFevre Ferree (1750-1807), a revolutionary war veteran and early settler of Coraopolis. Jacob and Nancy are interned in the Coraopolis cemetery.

This window was donated by Mrs. Harry (Annetta N “Nettie” Nesbit) Ferree in memory of her parents.

The story of Jesus continues in Window 6, which is the first window on the right facing Pine alley and the last window in the series. This window depicts three stories from the resurrection.

The scene on the left shows Jesus (kneeling) before an angel, surrounded by olive trees. The angel has a cup in his hands.

Luke 22: 39-46 And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done .And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

The center scene shows Jesus rising from the earth. Two Roman soldiers in the foreground cover their faces from the sight.

Matthew 28:1-4 The day after the Sabbath day was the first day of the week. At dawn on the first day, Mary Magdalene and another woman named Mary went to look at the tomb. At that time there was a strong earthquake. An angel of the Lord came down from heaven, went to the tomb, and rolled the stone away from the entrance. Then he sat on the stone. He was shining as bright as lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The soldiers guarding the tomb shook with fear because of the angel, and they became like dead men.

The scene on the right features an angel in front of a tomb talking to three women (Mary Magdalene, another Mary and what appears to be Jesus’ mother Mary in blue robe)

Matthew 28: 1 The day after the Sabbath day was the first day of the week. At dawn on the first day, Mary Magdalene and another woman named Mary went to look at the tomb.

Matthew 28: 5-7 The angel said to the women, “Don’t be afraid. I know that you are looking for Jesus, who has been crucified. He is not here. He has risen from the dead as he said he would. Come and see the place where his body was. And go quickly and tell his followers, ‘Jesus has risen from the dead. He is going into Galilee ahead of you, and you will see him there.’” Then the angel said, “Now I have told you.”

The brass plate below the window reads:

In Remembrance of Sarah McFadden. Charter member, and untiring workers for the organization of the church and the erection of the first building given by the Ladies Society

Sarah Russell McFadden (1826-1897) was the eldest child of Thomas McFadden (B: 1793 Ireland – 1865 Moon) and Jane (Janet) Russell (1796-1875). Thomas was a riverboat captain and landowner. Sarah had 5 siblings – Ann, Jane, James, Thomas and Catherine.   Sarah started a Bible class in her home on the riverbank which was the nucleus of the First Presbyterian Church of Middletown (Coraopolis). She passed around a silver bowl and collected $2000 for the first building (equivalent to $50,000 in 2019). This was enough to build the first church. She was one of the 10 charter members from Sharon Church. She was known as a woman with an indominable will. She never married and is buried with her unmarried sister Ann (1828-1895) in Sharon Presbyterian Church cemetery. She left 10% of her estate to the missions of the Presbyterian Church.

This window was donated by the Ladies Aid Society in memory of Sarah McFadden.

The church is blessed to have three, large 9-foot round “Rose” windows in the main sanctuary. The windows are in the “Flamboyant Gothic” style. They are identical except for the center medallion. White crosses are seen throughout the windows. The windows are unusual as they have 5 divisions. The number 5 symbolizes God's grace, goodness, and favor toward humans and is mentioned 318 times in Scripture. The center medallions include:

Descending Dove - North Transept – left side facing Pine alley

The descending dove is a symbol of the presence of God as the Holy Spirit and peace, new life, and purity. The use of the dove as a symbol of peace and new life comes from the story of Noah and the flood, where Noah sent a dove forth to find out if the waters had subsided.

Luke 3:21-22 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."

Above the dove are the letters “IHS” – this is a common monogram of the name of Jesus taken from first three letters of the Greek name of Jesus, ΙΗΣΟΥΣ, iota-eta-sigma, or ΙΗΣ.

The North Transcept Rose window was given in loving memory of Mrs. Anna Ferree Dunlap, a member for 28 years.

Anna (Westanna) J. Ferree (1869-1921) was baptized in the Forest Grove Presbyterian Church in the presence of her parents George Mason Ferree (1830-1906) and Rachel Onstott Curry Ferree (1833-1919). Anna married William McClintock Dunlap in 1891 at the same church. Anna and William lived on State Avenue. Anna kept house and William worked as a bookkeeper at a glass factory. There is no evidence of children. Both are buried in Coraopolis Cemetery.

Cross and Crown – South Transept - right side facing 5th Avenue

This emblem is often interpreted as symbolizing the reward in heaven (the crown) coming after the trials in this life (the cross). It is meant to urge Christians to accept and bear the cross and be rewarded with the crown of righteousness.

James 1:12 12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Matthew 27: 29 And they twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head. They put a staff in His right hand and knelt down before Him to mock Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”

South Transept Rose window was given in member of S.S. Jordan, charter elder and Sarah Frances Jordan.

Samuel Stewart Jordan (1854-1925) was the son of Samuel Alexander Jordan (1807-1897 and Margaret White (1817-1895). He and his wife (Sarah Frances Phillips) lived on the “Clinton Turnpike” in Moon township where they farmed along with their 6 children. Samuel’s family were early settlers of Allegheny County, which is documented in the History of Allegheny County. SS and Sarah are buried at Sharon Community Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

This window was donated by Ellsworth Jordan in memory of his parents Mr. and Mrs. S.S. Jordan.

 Lamb of God - Chancel - front of the church over the Communion Table (altar)

The lamb is the symbol of purity and innocence; its sacrifice restores the balance of sin.

John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

The rose window in the Chancel area was donated by relatives of Mr. William H. Watson (1854-1929) and his wife Anna Zella Watson (1858-1925). William and Anna married at Forest Grove Presbyterian Church in 1880. They lived on Fourth Avenue where William was a building contractor.   Anna’s parents, D.K. and Elizabeth Clever lived in Stowe Twp. William’s father was from England. Both are buried in Coraopolis Cemetery.  

The scene on the left shows Jesus (red robe) over a child in a bed with a woman in the background. This panel depicts Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter.

Luke 8:40-56 Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying. As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,[a] but no one could heal her. She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore.” Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child’s father and mother. Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep. ”They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.

The scene on the right shows Jesus (red robe) holding a loaf of bread and surrounded by people.

Mark 6: 41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.” 

The brass plate below the window reads:

In loving memory of all the little children who the savior has called from our fold to the heavenly home

This window was donated by the primary department of the church school.

There are three windows on the wall behind the bell ringer station. 

The left window depicts a man in a red robe (Jesus) knocking on a wooden door.

Matthew 7:7  Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

Revelations 3:19 -21 Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me. To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.…

The center window shows Jesus in red robe holding a lamb and tending a flock of sheep.

John 10: 7-11 Then Jesus said to them again, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

The right window shows Jesus holding a child while other children reach up to him. A man in a gold robe is on the left, a woman is to the right.

Mark 10:13-16 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

The brass plate below the window reads:

In grateful remembrance of the long loving service of Mrs. Sarah Stephenson for 25 years primary supt. of church school

Sarah (Sadie) Watson Stevenson (1854-?) was the daughter of John Watson (of England) (1838-1900) and Amanda McMillen (1833-1908) who grew up in Moon Township. She married Samuel Stevenson and moved away from the area. Her daughter Anna Grace (1885-1964) was born in Pleasantville, Pa. After the death of her husband, she returned to the area. By 1900 she was a widow who lived with her daughter Anna Grace on State Avenue. Her siblings include William H. Watson, Agnes Jane (Phillips), Amanda, and Olive (Fulton). In 1910 Sarah and Anna moved to Main Street. Anna married Archibald McKibbon of Kentucky and eventually moved to New Jersey. 

This window was donated by the Church School.

South Transept – Right window facing Fifth Avenue

This window contains a left and right pane. 

Both scenes tell of two of Christ’s miracles. The scene on the left shows a portrayal of Luke 5, when Jesus urged Peter to cast his fishing net in an unlikely area.

Luke 5:1-11  One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.

The scene on the right is a representation of the type of event described in John 9, “The giving of sight to the blind.”

John 9:1-11 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.”

The brass plate below the window reads:

In loving memory of William Henry Fowler, Jr., 1925-1930, “I want to be Jesus and heal everybody.”

Chancel Window

The beautiful stained- glass window in the chancel of the old Greystone Presbyterian church is titled “The Window of Divine Invitation”. It is dedicated to the honor of the men and women of the congregation who served the cause of freedom in World wars I and II. It depicts the bible verse Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

The window was dedicated on May 12, 1946. 

The central window shows Jesus standing with his hands outstretched. Additional symbols in the window include:

Hand – symbol of the father

Dove – symbol of the Holy Spirit

Lamb with a banner – symbol of the Risen Christ

Cross – symbol of Christ’s suffering and death

Crown – symbol of Christ’s victory and kingship Revelations 2:10 “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”

Winged man, winged lion, winged ox, and eagle – symbols of the four gospels

Dove and Font – symbol of Christ’s baptism

Bread and cup – symbol of Holy Communion

Vine and grapes – symbol of the union between Christ and the Church. John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit.”

Oak leaves and acorns – symbols of strength

The Chancel window is the work of the Pittsburgh Stained Glass Studios, Pittsburgh, PA.