WINDOW TO ST. CHARLES BORROMEO. (West elevation - 4th window) He is regarded as the Father of Seminaries and is portrayed in the performance of public atonement and humility. Barefoot and with a coil of rope around his neck, he bears in one hand the reliquary containing the Holy Nail and in the other he carries a taper.
In the medallion to the right, the Saint is helping plague-stricken people of Milan. The subject at the left commemorates St. Charles administering Holy Communion to St. Aloysius. In the base of the window is depicted the establishment of the Oblates Society, with St. Charles issuing appointments to Seminaries. |
The following symbols are worked into the design: above and adjacent to the head of the main figure is displayed the cardinal’s hat and tassels. His previous appointments as abbot and bishop are acknowledged by the pastoral staff seen in one of the shields in the field of the design. Opposite this is the official cross of a prince of the Church, denoting his office as Archbishop of Milan.
Other aspects of his career are suggested by the arms of the Carmelite Order whose patron he was, as also the Knights of Jerusalem whose badge of the cross, crosslet and four smaller crosses signify the five Wounds. The portable organ symbolizes his love of music and his efforts to raise the standard of chant. The final emblem in this set is the word Humilitas, surrounded by a crown. At either side of the main figure may be seen Ecce venio, said to be his last utterance. In the base border is shown a water pitcher and a loaf of bread, suggesting his austerities. |