Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

St. Martin of Tours Church in Southeastern Meade County is undertaking a campaign to raise $256,000 for restoring its 130-year-old stained glass windows. The church has been described by its parishioners as a vital historic link.

“These windows were built and installed with donations from the ancestors of many of St. Martin’s current parishioners,” said Sherry Vowels, a lifelong parishioner. “They are a beautiful link to the past and a prominent feature of the church.”

The restoration initiative involves Sherry Vowels, her husband Norman Vowels, Billy Vowels, Rhonda Thompson, and Randy Padgett, who emphasized the parish's strong community ties. “The church is a connection for all of us. We’re not rich people but we try to keep this church looking as best as it can,” Sherry Vowels stated.

Located in Flaherty, Kentucky, St. Martin of Tours was first dedicated in 1848. The present red brick church with 32 stained glass windows and an 86-foot steeple was dedicated on November 14, 1894.

Billy Vowels recounted that storm windows installed to protect the stained glass have caused deterioration due to lack of ventilation. He explained, “The windows are collapsing on themselves as the lead and solder are weakening.”

Rhonda Johnson, part of the windows committee, explained the restoration process: “Each individual piece will be taken apart, cleaned and re-soldered. They’ll make molds to put them in (for transportation). They’ll recycle the lead.” Repairs will also include work on the wooden frames and installing new ventilated storm windows.

Lynchburg Stained Glass, a Virginia company, has been contracted for the restoration. A team of 25 artisans is scheduled to complete the project within four to five months while the church’s windows remain boarded.

The campaign, launched in September, has already raised $150,000. An initial GoFundMe collected $32,000. Parishioners are hosting raffles and inviting monthly pledges to reach their goal. Padgett expressed optimism about the campaign's success, citing the dedication of parishioners: “I’ve never met more dedicated people in any parish.”

Additional campaign details are available through the parish office. Interested donors can also contribute by mail to the parish’s address.