Composed between 1925 and 1926, Church Windows is subtitled “four symphonic impressions”, and the composer sought to evoke old church music by setting modal tunes. The movements depict four old stained-glass windows with Biblical and Catholic-tradition stories. The first, Flight into Egypt is a contemplative, melancholic series of variations on a simple tune. The second, Saint Michael the Archangel, depicts a dramatic battle scene. The third, the Matins of Saint Claire, is once again introspective, depicting the story of Saint Claire who was too ill and carried to mass by angels. The fourth, Saint Gregory the Great, pays homage to Pope Gregory and the plainchant that bears his name.