A striking new stained-glass window at St James, Norton (on the edge of Worcester) has been blessed and dedicated by Archdeacon Mark and Dean Stephen. The project, which began many…
The project, which began many years ago when Mark was serving in the Severnside Parishes, has finally come to fruition and has been dedicated in memory of a much-loved local man, Nick.
The window was designed by Devon based artist Amy McCarthy in collaboration with Nick’s close friend John Hodges, and reflects Nick’s love of nature, art and the Worcestershire landscape. At its heart are the Malvern Hills, which can be seen from the churchyard and were a place that held many special memories for Nick and those who knew him.
The design also takes inspiration from the famous Rose Window of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, incorporating rich colours that fill the church with light. Great care was taken to create something contemporary while sitting comfortably alongside the church’s Victorian stained glass. The result is a beautiful addition to the building that feels both fresh and timeless.
Archdeacon Mark said:
“More than simply a memorial, this window celebrates the beauty of God’s creation. As sunlight streams through the glass, it offers a reminder of the wonder of the natural world and the faith that inspired its creation.
“Nick was himself a talented artist and had a deep appreciation for creativity and beauty. Friends and family believe he would have loved the finished design. Living close to the church and within sight of the Malvern Hills, he was closely connected to this place, making the window a particularly fitting tribute.”
The project is a wonderful example of how churches continue to tell the Christian story through art while also celebrating the lives of those who have helped shape their communities. For years to come, the window will bring colour, light and inspiration to all who visit St James, while keeping alive the memory of a much-loved son, friend and neighbour.
At the recent Clergy Conference, the diocesan stewardship team launched a Boomerang offering, to help activate generosity across the Diocese. Each person was given a £5 note to take home, pray with and see what act of generosity God was calling them towards. We also asked them to share their stories of how the money was used.
Many of our churches hosted ‘light parties’ at the end of October as a popular alternative to Halloween. Some of our renewal churches hosted the biggest celebrations.
Our diocese has been awarded £3.6 million to continue to support churches as part of phase two of our programme to ensure our churches are healthy and sustainable for the future.
Kelly Gordon is a member of Wordsley Parish in Greater Dudley Deanery. She has recently been selected as one of only three people in the UK to be part of the Leaders Europe programme within the Obama Foundation.
St Peter’s CE Academy and St Peter’s Church in the Saltway Team have been awarded a silver Church and School Partnership Award recognising the close relationship between the church, school and local community.
This year’s Church of England Advent and Christmas theme focuses on the first and greatest Christmas gift of all: the gift of God being born as one of us in Jesus Christ.
An article from Archdeacon Mark for December editions of parish magazines.
The Muslim-Christian dialogue group in Lye, Stourbridge, arranged a litter pick on 31 October to clear up two local streets.
A new singing group for children will launch at St Peter’s Centre at Pedmore Church on 15 November, 10 years after Singing Angels originally began at St Andrew’s Church on the Straits.
Bishop Hugh visited Cropthorne with Charlton C of E First School on 3 November to share in their collective worship and meet with the children.
