Bath Abbey is calling on the community to help raise an additional £90,000 to complete a remarkable stained glass tribute to Saint Alphege, a native son and revered Christian martyr. The appeal hopes to secure full funding by the end of the year to bring this long-awaited project to life.
Designed by renowned Bath-based artist Neil Ireson, the window celebrates Saint Alphege, who was born in Bath in 953 and later became Archbishop of Canterbury in 1006. Before that, he served as Abbot of Bath Abbey in the early 980s, remembered for his enduring messages of peace and generosity.
Already, 40 percent of the funding has been raised, with early donations including generous support from The Friends of Bath Abbey. If fully funded, the window will be installed in 2026 within the Abbey’s Saint Alphege Chapel — a serene space frequently visited by international pilgrims for personal reflection.
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The vivid window will become the chapel’s centerpiece, symbolically incorporating Bath’s iconic waters—the River Avon and the Roman hot springs—alongside the Christian “Fountain of Life.” Its intricate border subtly references international flags, reinforcing Bath Abbey’s mission as “A House of Prayer for All Nations.”
Reverend Canon Guy Bridgewater, rector of Bath Abbey, expressed hope that the artwork’s powerful themes of holiness and international mission will inspire visitors and pilgrims alike. “This contemporary interpretation of ancient truths will deepen our community’s connection to Saint Alphege and renew the Abbey’s call to be a place of prayer and peace worldwide,” he said.
Neil Ireson shared his excitement about the commission, calling it the culmination of his life’s work. “Creating this window for the Saint Alphege Chapel, a church that holds deep personal meaning for me, is an extraordinary honour,” he said.
The Abbey invites supporters to contribute online, participate in Shoppers Carols during November and December—where half of the retiring collection will support the appeal—or attend the Jethro Tull concert on December 18, with all profits aiding the campaign.
Donors will receive thank-you messages, project updates, and invitations to exclusive Abbey events. Efforts are also underway to secure additional grants from trusts and foundations to reach the funding goal.