Munich-style stained glass windows epitomize the glory of Gothic architecture, providing the ultimate touch of refinement and splendor. Their manufacture differs from traditional stained glass in that detailed images are painted onto larger pieces of colored glass that have been cut to fit the image. When fired at high heat, the transparent lead-based paint fuses with the glass achieving an intricacy and blending of colors unattainable in traditional stained glass.

Once fired, the painted glass is assembled into larger units using lead channel and reinforcing bars, and the units are sealed with lead caulking “to keep the wind and rain out.”

The windows of Nativity Church were built of hand-blown German stained glass, and designed, painted, and installed by master craftsman Jesse Earl Fink of the American Glass Company, Los Angeles, CA.

The windows were shipped to Flagstaff by rail and, as recalled by Jesse’s nephew Howard Parker, “on the day the windows were to be installed, typical Flagstaff weather set in with high winds and snow. Jesse, standing on a ladder without assistance, installed all the stained glass windows in that weather in two and half days.”

“His hands would get so cold he’d just about get a window in place but could not feel the glass. Afraid of dropping the glass, he would take the window down the ladder, so he could warm his hands to start over again.”

In 1974, after many years of building stained glass windows and working with lead, Jesse Fink died of complications from lead poisoning.

“The central front window is a daring and magnificent piece of work, generous in broadness and height, delicate in every detail.” (The History of the Catholic Church in Flagstaff, by M.J. Riordan)

The Assumption depicts Mary as she is raised into heaven by cherubs. The Apostles mourn her death. Some kneel by her stone sarcophagus while others look upward witnessing the glory of her Assumption.

It was generally assumed the name of this - the third Nativity church in Flagstaff - would be as before, “The Church of the Nativity” (of Jesus). However, a new name as depicted in the window above the main entrance was given, “The Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary.” St. Anne is portrayed holding the baby Mary, as St. Joachim and two attendants kneel nearby. White lilies at the top of the throne are a traditional symbol of Mary’s purity, while the throne and purple curtain signify royalty. Other details such as the fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily in the lower left corner, “Ave Maria,” and the letters BVM honor the Virgin Mary.