Extensive Vandalism damage to stained glass window

We are St James, Sussex Gardens, the much-loved parish church of Paddington.

Our community is a vibrant, hospitable, and welcoming home for many people and community groups – of Christian faith, other faiths, and of none – who view it as a vital part of their lives in this part of West London. Many migrants and asylum seekers have found a home with us, alongside people who have been worshipping with us for decades.

We are truly a family of the nations.

In the week after New Year, our beautiful post-war east window – known as the Te Deum window – was badly damaged by vandalism.

Over the course of five nights, an individual repeatedly attacked the church, damaging virtually every panel of the window. Some panels have been completely destroyed, others badly damaged.

St James needs urgent help to make safe the windows, carry out replacement/repair work, and then protect them for the future through the installation of grilling. As a result of this hate crime, we are also looking to protect our beautiful and irreplaceable late 19th century stained glass windows.

We are looking to raise an initial amount £35,000 and we hope that you will respond generously to our appeal.