ABINGER STAINED GLASS | AMANDA WINFIELD

All Saints Church, Woodham, Surrey

This is a remembrance window for the armed services. This stained glass window is especially dedicated to the memory of Lieutenant Commander Richard Smith, Royal Navy, beloved son of Judy and Mike Smith, members of the congregation of All Saints Woodham. The colours within the window-green, blue, red and gold-evoke land, sea and sky, thereby honouring the three services remembered: The Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force. At the centre of the design is the sun: the Father is seen in the sun itself, Christ in the light that radiates from it, and the Holy Spirit in the warmth which sustains all life. The golden tones, created with amber glass and silver staining , signify the kingship of Christ on earth.

The acid etched blue glass suggests the movement of water, with gentle waves in the middle third of the panels and clouds forming above. Depth and motion are brought forth by a combination of etched and streaky glass. Ruby red poppies, carefully etched and painted cascade throughout the window-small at the top, growing larger as they fall to eye level. The red poppy, ever a symbol of remembrance and of hope, thus finds its place at the heart of this work. As light passes through this south facing window its strength changes with the hours of the day. The colours silently move across the church floor and pillars calling each of the congregation to reflection, remembrance and prayer.

The window was dedicated by The Right Reverend Peter Hancock on Remembrance Day 9th November 2025.

Written By Adrian Vincent