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In medieval times, religion controlled daily life. Cathedrals were fancy churches. They were built to honor God. Each town wanted their cathedral to be the most beautiful cathedral possible. A new art form was designed - the stained glass window. 

Stained glass windows were made of colored glass. They let in filtered light in many beautiful colors. Each window showed a religious scene. These scenes told a story about the lives of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the saints. 

Since most people could not read, the use of stained glass windows did more than add light and beauty. The church used them as an effective way to teach people about religion.