A Glimpse into the Divine: The St. Charbel Church Qatar Project

Martine Boutros
Lebanese Artist & Iconographer
Martine Icons | Vibrand Studio

The Journey Begins: From Anticipation to Artistry

It’s been an incredibly long, yet profoundly rewarding journey. For over two years, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the green light to begin the preparatory sketches and digital drawings for the ten magnificent arches at the Church of Saint Charbel in Qatar. The design process, meticulously led by Bishop Mgr Joseph Naffaa, was a truly collaborative effort. Working alongside Abouna Charbel Mhanna M.M.O., the dedicated church team, and the amazing architect team, we poured over every detail. Each element was carefully weighed to ensure these windows would not only be visually stunning but also deeply resonant with the rich Lebanese Maronite and Catholic heritage they represent.

Bringing the Vision to Light: The First Printed Glass

Finally, in May 2023, a significant milestone arrived: I was able to see the first printed glass. This marked the exciting transition from anticipation to tangible creation. What will become a breathtaking series of printed-glass windows, each measuring an impressive 4 x 4 meters, began its journey. The very concept for these windows was inspired by the Byzantine mosaic effect—a style deeply characteristic of the civilizations that influenced the Lebanese Christian era. This unique approach allows for a rich, textured appearance, bringing historical depth to our contemporary creation.

A Desert Oasis: The Harmony of Colors

One of the most striking aspects of this project’s design is the deliberate use of color. Blue became a main reflection, chosen specifically to give a cool ambiance. Imagine the vast, warm desert surrounding the church; the predominant blue in the windows creates a beautiful contrast between warm and cool, specifically between the desert’s yellow tones and the windows’ calming blue. This thoughtful color palette is designed to offer a serene and welcoming atmosphere within the church, a true oasis in the heart of the desert.

Stories in Glass: Lives of Saints Unveiled

The windows themselves are designed to tell a powerful story: the Lives of 10 saints in the Lebanese Maronite and Catholic church tradition. Imagine the vibrant hues, the intricate details, and the profound narratives that will soon fill this sacred space. Each saint’s story will unfold across these arches, bringing their virtues and legacies to life for generations to come.

This is when the very first piece of glass was cut.  

The Art of Creation: Cutting the First Piece

And then, a moment I had been truly looking forward to arrived: January 2025. This is when the very first piece of glass was cut. This isn’t just about cutting glass; it’s about giving form to a vision, about transforming light into narrative, and about imbuing a space with spiritual beauty. It’s the moment when all the planning, sketching, and digital drawing begin to materialize into something tangible and permanent.

Each saint’s story will unfold across these arches, bringing their virtues and legacies to life for generations to come.  

A Profound Honor: Illuminating Faith

This project is more than just a commission; it’s a profound honor. To contribute to the spiritual landscape of the Church of Saint Charbel in Qatar, to depict the lives of these revered saints, and to bring light and color to such an important place is truly humbling. I look forward to sharing more updates as these monumental windows progress from my studio to their final home, illuminating the church and inspiring all who enter.