Stained Glass Windows in Saint Rochus Shrine in Osiek: the Question of Perception and of Social Communication

Abstract

Arrangement and adaptation of church interiors often include the introduction of elements related to history, functionality and art into the sacred space. Installation of stained glass windows is one of the hardest decisions to make. Taking into account many cases of “sacred kitsch” designed and produced in the field of the stained glass windows, the article is an attempt to present some essential guidelines, which should provide the parochial decision-makers with the basic information in the process of choosing the correct, long-lasting and non-controversial solutions. No matter how noble your motives are, you should take into account the social perception and the interpersonal communication. In many cases both can become a very useful argument in favour of carrying out even the most complicated tasks. In addition to this, the factors concerning the social perception and communicaton could help to eliminate – as early as in the design stage – all the reservations and obstacles that might arise and consequently to avoid quarrels and negative feelings, which, for pastoral reasons, should never divide the parish community. What serves as a good example is the stained glass project for St Rochus Church in Osiek. Thanks to his personal experience of cooperation with the designer and the contractor, the author was able to present the advantages of the social communication as a vital aspect of the contemporary pastoral ministry.