The Stained Glass Windows

In centuries gone by stained glass provided a kaleidoscope of colour, artistry and ‘visual aids’ for people who could not read nor understand the Latin of the Scriptures and church services. Sadly, none of the rich mediaeval glass which would have filled the windows of the church has survived.

St Michael’s does however possess some excellent 19th century glass, by Messrs Heaton, Butler & Bayne, of Covent Garden, London — a firm with a prolific output and a reputation nationally for work of the highest quality.

The Great East Window

This massive seven light window, has an amazing array of Church teaching in visual-aids! The centre light shows Jesus the Good Shepherd, with Michael, our Patron Saint beneath carrying his scales, for weighing souls

In the six flanking lights are eighteen episodes form Our Lord’s life – from the Annunciation to the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

In the tracery above are the Twelve Apostles, with their emblems, the Instruments of Christ’s Passion and the company of Angels. The glass which cost £500, was given in 1887 in thanksgiving for 50 years of Queen Victoria’s reign.

South Chapel, East

In the four lights we see the Sermon on the Mount, the Healing of the Leper, Jesus with the Children and the Good Samaritan. In memory of Dr William Edward Crowfoot (d.1887) and his wife Ellen (d.1870). The Crowfoots were a prominent Beccles medical family and generous benefactors to this church.

South Chapel, South-East

The three lights show Dorcas (from the Acts of the Apostles), the Blessed Virgin Mary visiting her cousin Elizabeth, and Jesus with Mary of Bethany and her sister Martha. In memory of Mary Crowfoot (d.1891).

South Chapel, South-West

Jesus inviting the people, including the sick, to ‘Come unto me’. In memory of Canon John Rowsell, rector from 1882-1909.

North Chapel (now a vestry), East

The Sacrifice of Isaac, Jesus calming the Storm, the Raising of Lazarus and Jacob’s Dream at Bethel. Interestingly one section of the text beneath the Isaac scene, quoting James 2.22 (KJV), has been inserted upside-down! In memory of the Revd John Rustat Crowfoot, vicar of Wangford and Reydon (d.1875).