Church of the Covenant, Boston

The Church of the Covenant (a merger of Central Congregational Church and First Presbyterian Church) is a Boston landmark, built in 1865-1867 by the Central Congregational Church and now affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and the United Church of Christ.

Built of Roxbury puddingstone in Gothic Revival style, it was one of the first churches to relocate in the new Back Bay and was built largely with funds donated by Benjamin E. Bates, an industrialist who founded Bates College. Designed by Richard M. Upjohn, the son & partner of Richard Upjohn, who insisted on "a high Gothic edifice ... which no ordinary dwelling house would overtop." It has a 240-foot high steeple, that overtops the Bunker Hill Monument. In the 1890s the sanctuary was redecorated by Tiffany Glass and Decorating Co. with stained-glass windows and mosaics and an electric-light chandelier designed by Tiffany's Jacob Adolphus Holzer for the World's Columbian Exhibition, Chicago, 1893.

Why You Should Visit:
While there are several famous churches in the neighborhood, this one is distinguished by its 42 Tiffany stain-glass windows, the largest collection anywhere.
It is said that these paintings include at least 9 types of specialty glass and up to 5 layers that allow for creative, painterly effects. Beautiful is an understatement.

Tip:
Tours are given daily in season; donations accepted. Be sure to get a free brochure that will bring the Tiffany glass to life. Or if you are lucky, you may have a docent to show you the highlights.
If you arrive in time for the 10:30 service on Sunday and are so inclined, you can feel welcomed by the very friendly congregation and the restored Welte organ, a must for organ fans.