Read, St John's Church

Title: 'St John and St George'

Date: 2017

Design by: Deb Lowe

Size of each light: 610mm wide x 2130mm

Description: This window was commissioned by Lord Waddington during his lifetime and now serves as a memorial to him. A proud son of the village, his motto Deus Noster Refugium Et Virtus (“God is our refuge and strength”) is reflected in the saints and symbols chosen.

Left Light – St John the Evangelist
St John, one of Jesus’ first disciples, is shown with a staff for his journey of faith and a gospel for his writings. The eagle on the gospel cover is his traditional symbol. At the top is Lord Waddington’s Coat of Arms, showing the coronet of a baron and the Grand Cross of the Victorian Order. At the base is St John’s Church, surrounded by red roses, the symbol of Lancashire.

Right Light – St George
St George, patron saint of England, carries a lance and shield with the red cross, recalling the legend of the dragon and the fight against evil. Above is the Coat of Arms of Bermuda, where Lord Waddington was Governor from 1992 to 1997. Below is his childhood home, the Old Vicarage in Read, framed by oak branches — a symbol of strength, endurance, and heritage. Each light includes a personal inscription at the base.