God’s Glass

The Stained Glass of Washington Memorial Chapel

The Vision

Faith, Freedom & the Founding of a Nation in Glass

Step into Washington Memorial Chapel and witness a vivid story told in stained glass. Conceived by The Rev’d W. Herbert Burk and crafted by Nicola D’Ascenzo, these thirteen windows illuminate the intertwined legacy of Christianity and American liberty. Each window offers a rich visual and spiritual journey through history, theology, and nationhood.

Explore stained glass as a window into faith, sacrifice, and liberty.

God's Glass - Stained Glass Windows at Washington Memorial Chapel, Valley Forge
God's Glass - Stained Glass Windows at Washington Memorial Chapel, Valley Forge

These windows are glorious with the colors of heaven and they record the story of faith and hope and love….back of them are the miracles of Providence more wonderful by far than anything which man has planned or wrought.

—The Rev’d W. Herbert Burk (1929)

Nicola D’Ascenzo

Stained Glass Master

From immigrant apprentice to renowned stained glass visionary, Nicola D’Ascenzo brought beauty, history, and faith to life through the windows of Washington Memorial Chapel and beyond.

Discover the Visionary Who Brought God’s Glass to Life

Featured Window:

The George Washington Window

The George Washington window honors the enduring legacy of our nation’s first president, depicted in reverent detail and vibrant stained glass. A symbol of leadership, faith, and resilience, the window connects visitors to the spirit of Valley Forge and the birth of American freedom.

Explore God’s Glass

  • Martha Washington

  • Bishop White

    Bishop White

  • Alexander Hamilton

    Learn More

  • Benjamin Franklin

  • Nathanael Greene

  • Marquis DeLafayette

  • Anthony Wayne

  • Robert Morris

  • John Paul Jones
    & Richard Dale

  • John Houston

    John Houston

  • Thomas Jefferson

    Thomas Jefferson

  • Benjamin Lincoln

    Benjamin Lincoln

  • George Washington

    George Washington

    Learn More

Make a donation.

allow the light of history and faith to shine through every pane.

The beauty and history portrayed in the stained glass windows of the Washington Memorial Chapel lives on through the generous contributions of donors. Please consider making a donation to the Washington Memorial Chapel Window Restoration Fund and including it in your estate planning.

How to Donate

Donate Online

To donate online using the QR code or Donate button:

  1. Enter the amount you wish to donate.

  2. Click on the Fund dropdown menu.

  3. Scroll to the bottom of the list.

  4. Select “Stained Glass” to ensure your gift is directed correctly.

Donate by Check

Donations can also be made by personal check:

  • Make payable to “Washington Memorial Chapel”

  • Include “Stained Glass” in the memo section

  • Mail to PO Box 98, Valley Forge, PA 19481

Estate Planning

For assistance with estate planning naming the Washington Memorial Chapel, please contact treasurer@wmchapel.org.

God’s Glass Committee — Washington Memorial Chapel

Washington Memorial Chapel gratefully acknowledges the dedication and contributions of the God’s Glass Committee, whose efforts have made the Stained Glass Restoration Fund possible:

Diane Custer Smith, MD, DFAPA – Chair
Gardiner Pearson – Co-editor
Kenneth R. Dauscher – Co-editor
Nathan K. Hillanbrand
David R. Smith, MD
Frederick P. Smith
John R. Wallace

© Text copyright of Washington Memorial Chapel and courtesy of the God's Glass Project.
© Photos copyright of Sam Cornwall, licensed exclusively to Washington Memorial Chapel and courtesy of the God's Glass Project.

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