Christian significance

We are lucky at St. Helen’s to have some very beautiful stained glass windows. These not only fill the church with vivid colours, especially when light pours through them, but also illustrate stories from the Bible and several saints’ lives. In the distant past, when few people could read, this was an important resource for teaching the faith. However, all of our current windows date from the  nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with a few pieces of medieval glass incorporated into those here in the Lady Chapel. You can find more information about the individual windows in the printed guidebook.

Take some time to look at the windows. Do you recognize any of the Bible stories they depict? Which is your favourite?

Many of our windows were given in memory of various members of the church. You can read the dedications underneath.

If you were to have window made in your memory, what would it show?

Architectural / historical

Through the plain windows wave the patterns of the ever changing trees. In the coloured windows are the stories and incidents from the Bible which extend their invitation to be deciphered, and repay attention with a glow of recognition in the viewer, so reinforcing their memory in mind and soul – or maybe causing puzzlement, and subsequent enquiry. 

Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. 

Matthew 5.16