Latin was originally the universal language of the Western Roman Empire and the Western Church but as time passed it became the language of the few. The Reformation of Henry VIII in the 16th century ordered the use of English in churches throughout his realm. English translations of the bible had to be imported from the reformed churches of Geneva. St Mary Redcliffe possesses one of these bibles and it can be found in the north ambulatory. It was not for another century that King James authorised the publication of a new English translation of the bible, making its texts accessible to all. The lectern dates from this period and follows the common medieval style of an eagle above a glove with the bible resting on its wings, symbolising the Word of God being proclaimed all over the world. The pulpit, where the preacher teaches on the Word, was carved in the 19th century. The figures of the twelve apostles hold a symbol by which they are identified; mostly these are the instruments of their execution at their martyrdom. St Bartholomew holds a knife as he was flayed alive for preaching the Gospel, the Good News that God had provided a way of salvation for all peoples. He is now the patron saint of butchers and surgeons!
A fragment of glass with the opening words of St John's Gospel written in Latin IN PRINCIPIO...in the beginning.
Harry Stammers took from the Magnificat the Virgin Mary's response to God, the words 'Allgenerations shall call me blessed' as the theme for this window in the Lady Chapel