If it sounds too good to be true...   It probably is. That is what I was always told. But, that is not always the case.

During Michigan Art Glass Month 2009, there will be a whole array of glass activities throughout the state. Pictures In Glass, Stained Glass Studio, is taking part in the activities by offering a number of opportunities.

First, to churches. It is very sad to see old churches with glass broken out, warping, and in general disrepair. Often the congregation is not in a position to maintain them. As a way of giving back to the community, Pictures In Glass is looking for churches who are in that position. They will restore one stained glass window for free (up to 20sf ). They will also, during April, be creating one new stained glass window for a church in need (10sf ). There are some guidelines, but any church in the state of Michigan can apply for this opportunity. It is important for the churches to contact the studio prior to March 10, 2009 for more information.

If you missed out on the opportunity for 2008, be sure to apply in 2009. If you are out of state, send us a note and we may be able to make an exception.  The church chosen for free restored glass was Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hudson were 50sf of stained glass was restored.  These windows were in unbelieveably good condition considering their age.  A portion of the window was completely releaded, and a portion was repaired where needed and cleaned.  For 2009, Pat will give a similar opportunity to churches and add a participatory guideline for the chosen churches.

MORE DETAILS...

As an individual glass studio, I know I cannot change the world. But, I can provide one window at a time to make a difference where I can.  April is Art Glass Month. Each year I try to provide some kind of interesting subject matter for glass enthusiasts.

This year, and each year after for as long as I am able, I am going to provide one free restored stained glass window and one new stained glass window to a church. The chosen churches will be provided with up to 20 square feet of restored stained glass and up to 10 square feet of new stained glass (given to two separate churches). If your window is larger than that, a reasonable quote for the additional square footage will be provided.  As a chosen church, you will agree to have several volunteers who are willing to put in several hours each to help with the process.  Details can be received from the studio.

The churches for this year will be chosen prior to March 15, 2009 so the design on the new window can be drawn and the restored window can be removed prior to April (if possible). How they will be chosen will be decided on once all applications have been received.  Churches for 2008 were chosen for different reasons.  Sacred Heart had already put a large amount of money into their facility which they are trying very hard to maintain.  Because of the amount they already invested and the amount of work still left to do, they were chosen for restoration work in 2008.  If there are several that we cannot choose between, the names will be put in a drawing box and chosen randomly. The information we will need in order to consider your church for inclusion in this give away is: