top of page

Let in the Light: Restoring the Beauty of Holy Trinity Church’s Stained Glass Windows

frrussell5

Updated: Dec 13, 2024

Are you passionate about preserving history and supporting the restoration of cultural heritage? Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Johannesburg is currently undertaking a vital project to restore its historic stain glass windows, and we need your help to make it happen.

At the heart of Braamfontein, Holy Trinity Catholic Church stands as a beacon of faith, history, and community service. Its iconic stained glass windows, considered among the finest in South Africa, have illuminated the lives of countless worshippers for decades. These windows, with their vivid colours and intricate designs, do more than decorate our sacred space – they tell stories of faith, hope, and divine love. Yet, time has taken its toll, and these masterpieces are now in urgent need of restoration.


Preserving a Legacy of Faith and Art

The stained glass windows of Holy Trinity Church, designed by the renowned F.X. Zettler of Munich and installed in 1939, are more than works of art; they are an enduring legacy of faith. Each window captures moments from scripture, the lives of saints, and the beauty of God’s creation, serving as a powerful medium for prayer and reflection. However, decades of exposure to sunlight, pollution, and weather conditions have caused significant damage.

The intricate leadwork is deteriorating, panes are buckling, and cracks threaten the integrity of the glass. Without immediate intervention, these sacred treasures could be lost. The “Let in the Light” restoration project aims to conserve and restore these windows to their original brilliance, ensuring their light continues to shine for generations to come.


A Community United in Service

While our windows are the visual highlight of Holy Trinity, the heart of our church lies in its mission to serve. We are more than a place of worship; we are a cornerstone of community outreach. Through programmes like our soup kitchen and Trinity Health Services, we provide essential care to the homeless, offering meals, clothing, and free medical services in collaboration with volunteer students and practitioners. Our initiatives are not just about meeting physical needs but restoring dignity and hope to those we serve.

In addition to this, Holy Trinity is a hub for spiritual formation and education. From faith lectures to sacramental preparation, we offer opportunities for growth and learning for people of all ages and walks of life. Organisations like the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the Association of Catholic Tertiary Students work tirelessly to support both our parishioners and the broader community.


How You Can Help

Restoring the stained glass windows is a costly and delicate process, requiring specialised artisans and months of dedicated work. Your support is vital to preserving this rich heritage. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to achieving our goal.

By donating to the “Let in the Light” project, you’re not just preserving the beauty of Holy Trinity Church; you’re ensuring that our mission to serve the community continues to grow. The light that streams through these windows reflects the love and care that flows from our church into the world around us.


Join Us in Letting the Light Shine

We invite you to join us on this journey of restoration and renewal. Your generosity will help us restore these windows to their original splendour, safeguarding their legacy for future generations. Together, we can let the light of Holy Trinity shine brighter than ever before.

To make a donation, please visit our donation page. Thank you for being part of this vital effort to preserve beauty, faith, and community service.

Commentaires


bottom of page