Shining Light on Saint Alphege: A New Stained Glass Window for Bath Abbey
Supporter Newsletter: February 2026
More than a thousand years ago, Saint Alphege was born in Bath. From his early life as a humble monk, he rose to become Abbot of Bath Abbey and later Archbishop of Canterbury, before his untimely death at the hands of Danish invaders.
Throughout his life, Saint Alphege was guided by generosity, a commitment to social justice, and a pursuit of peace. He remains a figure of profound significance in the history of both Bath Abbey and the City of Bath, beloved by thousands around the world. Yet, despite his enduring legacy, his story has not been widely celebrated in his home city, until now…
Thanks to your generous support, we’ve reached our fundraising goal!
Bath Abbey is delighted to announce the successful completion of the Saint Alphege Window Fundraising Appeal, which has raised £90,000 towards the creation of a new stained glass window commemorating Saint Alphege, Bath’s local saint. Before the public appeal launched last July, 40% of the total needed had already been raised thanks to generous supporters, including The Friends of Bath Abbey.
Now, thanks to your generosity, Bath Abbey will honour Saint Alphege’s legacy where it all began.
By shining new light on Saint Alphege through the creation of a glorious stained glass window, Bath Abbey will commemorate this beloved saint and share his extraordinary story with the world.
Because of your support, the Saint Alphege Window will be cherished in our lifetimes and for generations to come, carrying forward Saint Alphege’s enduring message of generosity and peace.
Bath Abbey has commissioned renowned Bath-based stained glass artist Neil Ireson to design and create the new Saint Alphege Window for the Alphege Chapel. This chapel is a sacred space where thousands of international visitors come to pray for their loved ones, for the wider world, and for peace. Neil Ireson’s breathtaking design for the Saint Alphege Window can be seen above.
A Message of Thanks from The Revd Chantal Mason, Acting Rector of Bath Abbey
“We give heartfelt thanks to all who have donated to the Saint Alphege Window Appeal – we are so grateful for your support. Saint Alphege’s life of peace, principle, and courage still speaks powerfully to our time, and Bath Abbey’s new stained glass window will carry his story into the future - in vibrant colour and light, for generations to come.
Bath Abbey does not exist simply to preserve the past; it exists to serve the future - to be a place where spiritual life, culture, and community meet. Because of the vision and generosity of our supporters, the Saint Alphege Window will be more than just a fitting memorial to this beloved saint; it will stand as a symbol of hope and a testament to what we can achieve together.”
The Saint Alphege Window: Next Steps…
Neil Ireson, pictured right, will start production of the Saint Alphege Window in March, with installation planned for winter 2026.
During this time, Abbey visitors will have the rare opportunity to watch the Saint Alphege Window being installed by Neil Ireson and his expert team. Alphege-inspired tours, family trails, and engaging learning activities are planned, which will weave the story and values of Saint Alphege into Abbey life, enhancing worship, enriching the visitor experience, and offering fresh interpretation of Bath Abbey’s fascinating heritage.
As a valued supporter of the Saint Alphege Window Appeal, we look forward to sending you regular updates as Neil Ireson creates the new window, along with invitations to exclusive events, including a special celebration to mark its installation in Bath Abbey.
If you have any questions regarding this newsletter or the Saint Alphege Window, we’d be delighted to hear from you. Do just get in touch with Cath Foxwell, our Fundraising & Development Manager, using cfoxwell@bathabbey.org or Tel: 01225 303314 (Direct Line).
Appeal Sponsor
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REGISTERED OFFICE: The Abbey Office, 9 Kingston Buildings, Bath BA1 1LT TEL: 01225 422462 EMAIL: office@bathabbey.org WEB: www.bathabbey.org Charity registration number: 1134081