Bradford Cathedral

Submitted by Alan Marsden on Wed, 10/12/2025 - 23:00

Bradford Cathedral occupies a site which has been used for Christian worship since the seventh century. It has a violent history; previous buildings have been burnt down by invading Scots and woolsacks were hung about its tower in the civil wars to protect it from Cavalier canons. It was a large and stately parish church until it was elevated to cathedral status after the Great War and extended accordingly.

Its large, West Window is famous for its dedication to the various women of scripture. Included in its panes are:

Elizabeth

the Virgin Mary

Mary of Bethany

Martha

Eve

Miriam

Hannah

Ruth

Naomi

Esther

Joanna

Anna

Dorcas

Mary Magdalene

The woman at a well

The women at the empty tomb.

We sometimes think that women are overlooked in the Biblical record, and in the wider, historic faith. This window might therefore fill many with pleasure. Yet God made women and desires relationship with them. This is the most dignified and honourable status to have: friends with God. Window or not, the God of heaven values women and sent His Son to procure their eternal salvation. In these days when womanhood is being undermined by radical feminism on the one hand and transgenderism on the other, it needs to be defended and safeguarded.