Behind the font a window shows Jesus who, during his life, broke many social conventions. This made him popular with some people but very unpopular with others. We are told stories of him spending time with 'disreputable' people and social outcasts. These included tax collectors, prostitutes, lepers and even children, who in those days were of very low status, preferably not seen as well as not heard! Jesus was showing that there is a place for everyone in God's Kingdom and among his disciples.


Stained glass window showing
Jesus blessing the Children

‘Little children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. His disciples spoke sternly to those who brought them; but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and don't stop them; for it is to such as these that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs.” He laid his hands on them and then went on his way.' ( St Matthew chapter 19, verses 13 to 15)

A picture of Jesus blessing children is often found in churches near the font. For over one hundred years infants and young children have been brought by their parents and godparents to be baptised in our church.

Also behind the font, in another window, we find Simon Peter. His brother was Andrew. They were among the first of Jesus' disciples.

As Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew, casting a net into the sea - for they were fishermen. And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.' Immediately they left their nets and followed him. (St Matthew, chapter 4 verses 18-20)

Peter was well-meaning, impulsive and headstrong but he sometimes lacked courage. Once he even denied knowing Jesus. Jesus forgave him. Jesus can do the same for us.


Stained glass window showing St Peter

Jesus knew what Peter was really made of. He prepared him to lead his disciples:

‘ You are Peter,' Jesus told him, ‘and on this Rock I will build my Church ... and I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven'. (St Matthew, chapter 16 verses 18-19)

That is why Peter is pictured carrying keys. Peter did become a leading figure in the earliest days of the Church, the name given to the whole company of people who follow Jesus. A simple fisherman became a great teacher and preacher. He was probably the first Bishop of Rome , or Pope.

 

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