Photo by Pandora-no-hako on flickr · · · A series of stained glass windows in the curved outer wall of the sanctuary depict each of the nine orders of angels. The windows are original to the church at the Monastery Immaculate Conception, completed in 1924. The Sisters of St. Benedict estimate that there are at least ninety angels throughout their church, embodying St. Benedict's belief that angels are always watching over us, especially when we pray. The windows are tall and narrow, conforming to the "arrow-slit" style windows typical in Romanesque architecture. The colors are rich and bold jewel tones, and I love that each angel has a unique face and expression. The second window depicts an Archangel, St. Michael. St. Michael is seen as the protector of the Church, and he led the heavenly army in the battle against the fallen angels. Michael's shield bears the inscription "Quis ut Deus", which means "Who is like God", a literal transl...