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. 1