The War Memorial Window was created by A. Ballantine and Son of Edinburgh, Scotland and placed in the sanctuary and dedicated on May 28, 1922. James Ballantine, principal of the stained glass company, travelled to Newfoundland to help install the window. “A Veteran of the Great War himself, and a good friend of one of the young men the window commemorates, Mr. Ballantine had a particular interest in seeing that the window was a fitting memorial.” The most likely friend of James Ballantine from St. Andrew’s was Gilbert Thomas Gordon.
The window was funded by generous donations from members of the congregation of St. Andrew’s. In the first, or left light our attention is immediately drawn to the figure in the forefront - a boy reading at a desk, with a teacher and angel above him. It is that of one upon whose features the fresh bloom of youth still rests. In his hands he holds the ‘Book of Books’, which he has been thoughtfully reading. He has been pondering deeply over the part he may soon be called upon to play in the great struggle, the fires of which have already been lit. As he listens to the words of a wise counsellor, the sudden gleam in his eyes suggests to us that he has made his great decision. He will be true to himself and the Christian principles he has been taught. He will grasp firmly the torch of duty and by its light he will step bravely along that difficult path which stretches out before him.
In the center light is an image of an angel and a kneeling knight in armour with broken sword. An angel holding a laurel wreath is above the knight. Our soldier, has returned tired and worn from the conflict. We see him on his knees, but not as one defeated. He has cast aside his helmet and with uncovered head and with the hand which held his now broken sword, symbol of duty done, uplifted he looks up to receive the victor’s laurel wreath.
In the third light is an image of a knight in armour, wearing helmet, standing with sword and spear in hand, an angel is behind the knight’s Red Cross banner. Our youth has accepted the challenge and goes forth in the pride of young manhood, to answer the call of duty. Fully clad in the armour of a Christian Soldier, with sword in hand, and the banner of the Red Cross held high, with face set he goes out to meet unknown dangers, and perhaps death itself.
The wording through three small windows above the main window states, "Be thou faithful unto death.” Which is from Rev. 2:10 and is followed in the text, but not the window by - "And I will give thee a crown of life."
