Santa Monica (CA) Ward: Stained Glass Details

This window was donated by Alfred W. McCune and his wife (a Utah resident who supported the Church). A similar window can be found in the nearby Redondo Beach Ward. Those are the only 2 examples of stained glass that I am aware of that depict this event.

The window is naturally lit. Since I visited in the morning, it wasn't as brightly lit, especially at the top. (The chapel faces west.) It was still lovely to view.

 

Santa Monica (CA) Ward: Interior

 This chapel has a beautiful setting. At the front is an art glass window depicting Joseph Smith receiving the gold plates from the Angel Moroni.

 

 At the back of the chapel is a large mural of the pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley. The Salt Lake Temple rises above them.

The window and painting are too significant to not have their own posts, so keep an eye out for their highlights.

Santa Monica (CA) Ward

Originally known as the Ocean Park building, this meetinghouse in downtown Santa Monica was dedicated in 1922 by Heber J. Grant. (You can even see him in this picture, along with members of the ward.)

(Image Source: Church History Library)

(Image Source: Church History Library)

The building looks much different now; a renovation in the late 1950s completely changed the exterior. It was built in the mission style; I'm not sure what I'd call this style.

The good news is that they didn't move the art glass window, and many of the chapel's details remain intact.

The chapel had some additions built on in later years, creating an open courtyard that is common to many chapels in this area.

The plague that was originally on the exterior of the building is now on display in the lobby.

More pictures to come!

Midvale Second Ward

Built in 1928, this meetinghouse has some beautiful features. Unfortunately, some of the details have been lost over the years. The building is in an L shape, with the chapel in one wing and the cultural hall in the other.

Image Source: Church History Library

The building was sold at some point, and it now houses an evangelical church. The original stained glass windows, and details in the moldings at the front of the building and along the roof, have been removed and simplified.

The newer brick is apparent at the front of the building:

 Still, some details remain here and there.

I particularly like the dome over the main entrance.