Church of the Covenant, Boston

Located at the intersection of Newbury and Berkeley Streets, just beyond the smaller Emmanuel Church of Boston, stands this masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, a designated National Historic Landmark. Often, pedestrians are too engrossed in window shopping to notice the church's soaring steeple, which happens to be the tallest in all of Boston. It received high praise from Oliver Wendell Holmes, who described it as "absolutely perfect". So, remember to look upward before venturing inside.

The church's interior is renowned for housing one of the most extensive collections of liturgical windows crafted by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the entire country. Some of these stained glass creations are an impressive thirty feet in height. Once you step inside, you'll also be captivated by the 14-foot-high Tiffany lantern suspended from the awe-inspiring 100-foot ceiling. This lantern was originally designed for the World's Columbian Exhibition in Chicago in 1893.

Although the church is currently affiliated with the Presbyterian and United Church of Christ denominations, its architectural and artistic significance transcends its religious ties. Within its chapel, you'll find Gallery NAGA (Newbury Associated Guild of Artists), which ranks among Boston's largest contemporary art spaces. The gallery regularly hosts new exhibitions featuring the works of artists hailing from both Boston and New England. Additionally, the church's acoustically rich interior serves as a splendid venue for chamber music performances, including the founding location of the Boston Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra.

Why You Should Visit:
Among the many notable churches in the vicinity, this particular one stands out due to its remarkable collection of 42 Tiffany stained glass windows, the largest such assemblage anywhere. These windows are said to incorporate at least nine types of specialty glass and employ up to five layers, resulting in a stunning interplay of light and color that creates truly mesmerizing and painterly effects. To describe them as simply "beautiful" would be an understatement.

Tips:
If you plan to visit, consider taking a guided tour, which is offered daily during the season. Donations are typically accepted for these tours. Additionally, make sure to pick up a free brochure, as it can provide valuable insights into the artistry and symbolism behind Tiffany's glasswork. Alternatively, if you're fortunate, you may have the opportunity to be guided by a docent who can highlight the most captivating aspects of the windows.
For those who arrive early on a Sunday, attending the 10:30 AM service can be a special experience. The congregation is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, and you'll have the chance to hear the restored Welte organ, a true delight for organ enthusiasts.