Irlam, Manchester, St John the Baptist C of E

Title: 'The Four Elements'

Date: 2003

Design by: Roy W. Coomber

Size of each light: 600mm wide x 1500mm

Description: The brief was to reflect the place of St John's at the heart of the community through the passage of time, a community which has undergone huge change since the church was dedicated in 1866. Local community groups including students from the High School, members of the Local History Society and the Church Council worked with ourselves to produce ideas for the four windows.

The elements earth, air, fire and water are represented, unified by a rainbow. Irlam's agricultural heritage is illustrated, the Manchester Ship Canal, the Steelworks and lastly the community bound together by the love of God.

Earth - agriculture, ploughing, reaping, countryside, Lancashire rose. 

Water - ship canal, lock gates, countryside, Irlam Heraldry.

Fire - steel working, iron works, furnace heating metal, electric pylon. The arms of the Diocese.

Air - The spirit of God binding the community together, represented by a group holding hands, with children at the front representing its future. The church and high school logo at the top.