Stained Glass Image of the Day: Birse Church, Aberdeenshire
The image I was working on yesterday was sent digitally to me by Michael Zapppert. I asked Michael if he would mind sharing a few words on the panel, and I have attached his e-mail below.
“I was recently asked to investigate and repair some minor damage to a clear leaded glass quarry window and took the opportunity to take photos of the only two stained glass windows in Birse Church, Aberdeenshire.
One set in the north elevation, depicts Christ with two fishermen and the head section title ‘Follow me’ suggests they are Simon (later called Peter) and Andrew. An apt memorial to three members of the Middleton family who all became clergymen.
The window is unsigned but I believe it may be by Gordon Webster (1908-1987) and we would appreciate feedback from anyone who may be able to confirm this.
The second window, set in the east gable, depicts Christ on the road to Emmaus and although unsigned is by Douglas Strachan (1875-1950).
Following the merger with neighbouring Finzean and Strachan churches, Birse is no longer the parish church and the building has been acquired by the Birse Community Trust and used occasionally for musical events, weddings and funerals. It is notable that this building, set in a corner of rural Aberdeenshire should contain just two stained glass windows that were created by two of Scotland’s outstanding stained glass artists.”