LIGHTERMEN AND CITY VISTAS
Strong and colourful men once plied the river between ocean-going cargo boats and Thames wharves. They are no more.
Dominant and inspiring was St. Paul's Cathedral, giant symbol in a low-rising city. It is now almost dwarfed. The window shows a view that is gone.
The 1959 windows indicate relatively slow change, they were sponsored by Marshall's Charity and illustrate general trades, the occupations of local residents. The 1984/5 windows are each sponsored by a specific institution.
In the 1950s and 60s the throbbing business of the river ebbed and pleasure boats or tourist-craft became the major water-borne activity. But the new economic enterprises on the river bank and in the now towering city represent rapid and accelerating change, which can both perplex and inspire.
Therein lies a challenge to the living church and to all who aspire to faith in the love of God. Can we see in Jesus the Christ a model of our human contribution to his Father's kingdom in our city?
The 1984/5 windows illuminate something of the change and of its challenge to the interpretation of faith.
Taking up the theme in these windows on the world of work, how do we human instruments' use the 'resources of nature' to 'give worth to God through responsible service to our society'?
