Stained Glass Window – Staircase

Staircase Window
Designed by Arthur E. Buss and installed in 1968, the staircase window is divided vertically into seven parts.  The faceted glass is set in epoxy resin and follows the “Dalle de Verre” method, pioneered in the U.S.A. in 1954.  According to its designer, the window symbolises “the progress of the soul, from doubts and difficulties, through fire and light”.  
The fragmented glass may be seen as a symbol of brokenness brought together.  
The colours of the window gradually change from fiery reds and oranges to lighter yellows, blues and purples. 

Cardinal John Henry Newman’s poem, “The Dream of Gerontius,” was written in seven parts and set to music by Sir Edward Elgar, in Worcestershire. The window evokes phrases from the poem.

“Be with me, Lord, in my extremity!” 
“But hark! upon my sense
Comes a fierce hubbub, which would make me fear, Could I be frighted.”
“O happy suffering soul! for it is safe,
Consumed, yet quickened by the glance of God.” 

Why not look at the window from the first-floor landing!