Historic stained-glass windows at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tamaqua are being restored.

A special project to preserve the colorful 19th century windows began this week, according to the Rev. Dillon Epler, pastor of the church.

“During this time, the protective exterior panels will be carefully removed and the stained glass professionally cleaned,” he said. “New clear protective panels will then be installed to replace the old frosted and clouded coverings, allowing more natural light to enter and better showcasing the beauty of these treasured windows.”

The windows are on the Pine Street side of the church, as well as a portion of the Mauch Chunk Street side.

“These stained-glass windows are among the most precious features of our congregation,” Epler said. “Installed as part of the original 1895 church building, they have illuminated our sanctuary and borne witness to generations of baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals and weekly worship.”

The project both ensures that the faith and generosity of previous generations are honored, and that the church’s heritage is safeguarded for future generations.

Epler said the project is possible thanks to the generosity of three church families. Because of their donations, none of the congregation’s operating or memorial funds are being used for the project.

“May these windows, which have proclaimed the light of Christ for more than 130 years, continue to inspire worship and devotion for generations to come,” Epler said.