A serious attack on one of our stained glass windows took place overnight between 7pm on Wednesday and 10am on Thursday morning. This 1891 window in the South Porch, which anyone entering the church via the usual main entrance sees, has been very badly damaged.
The window, which depicts the baptism of Jesus, was given, as the inscription puts it, “In memory of the Revd John James DD, for 17 years Vicar of Peterborough (1833-1850), given by his son Francis James”. The window dates from 1891 and the glass is by John Hardman & Co.
Police CCTV footage of the area has not given the police any useful leads. Anyone who witnessed anything that may be relevant is encouraged to contact the police quoting crime reference 35/18864/22.
Coming just days before we welcome our new vicar, the Revd Michelle Dalliston, to the parish on Sunday afternoon, this shocking vandalism is especially upsetting now, but it will not discourage us from our vision of St John’s as a faithful and inclusive Christian presence in the heart of the city centre, striving to love and serve the whole community.
Please pray for Michelle as she prepares to begin her new ministry with us, and for all the many people who will be there on Sunday to welcome her and commit themselves to support and uphold her in that ministry.