This radiant image of the Nativity, designed and created in stained glass by parishioner Jackie Noonan, visually unites our three churches. It stands as a visual expression of the unity shared by the Holy Child Nativity Parishes — the faith communities of The Holy Child (Larkhill / Whitehall / Santry) and The Nativity of Our Lord (Beaumont).
At its heart is the mystery of the Incarnation — Christ, the Holy Child, cradled in the embrace of Mary and Joseph. The flowing, interwoven lines and the circular composition draw us into this moment of stillness, love, and divine presence.
Each figure is formed from seven curved lines, including those shaping the Holy Child. The number seven, rich in biblical meaning, evokes themes of divine grace, completeness, and sacred design.
The colours are symbolic and carefully chosen:
- Blue, green, and white represent our two parish communities and the beauty of our shared humanity.
- The harmony of blue and white also reflects the mystery of Christ’s divinity and humanity, inseparably united in the one person of Jesus.
- The area of clear glass at the centre reflects the purity of Christ, his inner light, and his ability to see into the very heart of every person.
The three golden halos denote sanctity and suggest the presence of heaven, made visible in this earthly scene — a vision realised at every altar where Christ is made known.
The surrounding circle speaks volumes:
It represents the circle of life, the embrace of God’s eternal love, and the wholeness that comes when Christ is truly at the centre.
It also suggests the ongoing journey of unity between our two parishes — distinct, yet drawn together in shared faith and purpose.
The gestures of the figures express tender reverence:
- Mary, clothed in blue, turns lovingly toward her Son and leads us to do the same.
- Joseph, in green, stands protectively alongside them, a quiet guardian and sign of strength.
- Jesus, the Holy Child, is placed at the very centre — not only of the image, but of our lives, our parishes, and our mission.
The absence of detailed faces allows the image to speak universally. It leaves space for each viewer to find themselves in the scene — to be drawn in, recognised, and loved.
Above the main doors of Holy Child Church are inscribed the words from the Gospel of Luke:
“Et erat subditus illis” — “And he was subject to them.”
These words remind us that the Son of God entered fully into the ordinary rhythms of family life, humility, and obedience. The image captures that same truth: the God of majesty made himself small, held in the arms of Mary and Joseph, and placed at the centre of human life.
This is not merely decoration, but a prayer in glass — a shared icon for the Holy Child Nativity Parishes, and a reminder of the truth we proclaim:
That the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us — and still does.