This three-light stained glass window, dated 1877 and designed by Frederick Preedy, illustrates the Works of Mercy as set out in Matthew 25, presenting Christian charity as the visible expression of faith in daily life. The window forms a moral and devotional counterpart to the Passion and sacramental imagery elsewhere in the church.
Main lights (the Works of Mercy)
Each light pairs two acts of mercy, accompanied by scriptural text drawn from Christ’s discourse on the Last Judgement.
-
Left-hand light:
Feeding the hungry and giving drink to the thirsty, with the inscription:
“Hungered and ye gave me meat. Thirsty and ye gave me drink.” -
Centre light:
Sheltering the stranger and clothing the naked, accompanied by the words:
“A stranger and ye took me in. Naked and ye clothed me.” -
Right-hand light:
Visiting the sick and visiting the prisoner, with the text:
“Sick and ye visited me. In prison and ye came unto me.”
The scenes are set in recognisably contemporary surroundings, a characteristic feature of Victorian narrative glass, encouraging direct identification between biblical teaching and modern Christian duty.
Tracery and theological focus
In the upper tracery, Christ is seated in majesty, holding an orb and identified by the Alpha and Omega, symbols of his eternal authority. Angels flank the central figure, bearing scrolls with the summarising text:
“Ye have done it unto me.”
This inscription unifies the window’s message, affirming that acts of mercy performed for others are, in Christ’s words, acts done to himself.
Interpretation and style
The window reflects Frederick Preedy’s distinctive style, marked by clear narrative structure, expressive but gentle figure drawing, and a rich yet harmonious palette. The emphasis on moral action over doctrinal complexity aligns closely with Victorian Anglican concerns for social responsibility, philanthropy, and visible Christian witness.
By combining scriptural quotation, everyday imagery, and a strong Christological conclusion, the window presents the Works of Mercy not merely as charitable ideals but as a theological imperative, placing compassion and service at the heart of Christian life.
