History - Stained Glass Windows

First World War

The subject of the Memorial Windows in the Chancel dedicated to the men who died in the First World War is “The Ascension of our Lord” and ‘While He blessed them, He was parted from them and carried up to Heaven” — St. Luke 24 V.51.

The figure of the Lord is shown in the upper part of the centre window, robed in pale yellow and crowned. Looking downwards and with his hands outspread in blessing; on either side are angels.

Below are the Eleven Apostles mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles - each can be identified by a little drawing of the symbol he became to be known by in the history of the Christian Church a few centuries later.

In a piece of white glass, rear:
St. Peter’s head is a pair of keys (gold and white).
St. Andrew is recognised by a transverse cross.
St. Matthew, by a purse.
St. James, the Elder, by a pilgrim’s staff.

On the left:
St. John, the divine, by a cup with a serpent issuing from it.
St. Philip, by a crozier surmounted by a cross.
St. Jude by a halberd.

On the right:
St. Bartholomew, by a knife.
St. James (the less) by a club embroidered on his shoulder.
St. Thomas, by a builder’s rule.
St. Simon, by a saw.

Some of these are said to have been old men at the time of the Ascension. St. Matthew and St. Simon can easily be distinguished by their white hair and beards. St. Peter, James (the less) Andrew, Jude, and Philip were all in their prime. Two only are shown to be quite young and beardless — St. John and St. Thomas.