Sacred Heart of Jesus
On the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 12 June 2026, a new stained glass artwork depicting the Sacred Heart of Jesus was unveiled in the Church of the Holy Child, Whitehall. A handmade gift from local artist and parish volunteer, Jackie Noonan, this unique installation draws parishioners to the Sacred Heart Shrine. Below, read something of the spirituality behind the work in the words of its designer:
The artwork is composed as a circular panel set within a lightbox, signifying Christ as the Alpha and Omega, the centre of all creation. The central element is the Sacred Heart, rendered in deep red glass with textured leadwork to convey the reality of Christ’s suffering and love.
Surrounding the heart are twelve thorns, symbolizing the Crown of Thorns and the weight of sin borne by Christ. Behind the heart, twelve golden rays represent the Apostles, called to carry His message to the world. Above the heart, a white cross is surmounted by a flame composed of twenty-one pieces of orange and red glass, signifying the Holy Spirit and the fire of divine love. Descending above is a dove, also composed of twenty-one pieces, representing the Holy Spirit present at the moment of Christ’s sacrifice.
The structural composition of three main panels reflects the mystery of the Holy Trinity. The restrained palette of white, gold, orange, and red directs focus to the central mystery of redemption.
The icon is designed not merely for aesthetic enhancement but as an aid to prayer. It invites the faithful to contemplate the Passion of Christ and to respond in love and service, deepening their participation in the liturgical and devotional life of Christ.