Union Church of Pocantico Hills

Painter and sculptor Henri Matisse was unwell when he accepted a commission from the Rockefeller family in August 1954 to create a rose window in the Union Church of Pocantico Hills in honor of Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. On November 4 came the startling news that Matisse had died, the fate of the rose window unknown. Belatedly, a final letter arrived from Matisse, revealing the design and his pleasure with it. The stained glass memorial to Mrs. Rockefeller turned out to be his last work of art.

Seven years later, David and Peggy Rockefeller approached Marc Chagall about a second memorial window for the church, this time dedicated to the memory of Historic Hudson Valley founder John D. Rockefeller, Jr. The resulting masterpiece, The Good Samaritan, became the first of an expanded commission for all of the nave windows. The story of the Union Church and its 10 breathtaking stained glass windows is the history of distinguished art patrons and great artists, but a visit to the sanctuary may be enjoyed on many levels. Visitors today seem to leave with their spiritual and emotional batteries recharged – an effect no doubt intended by the artists and patrons who created this special place. 
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