The Church of Saint Stephen-in-the-Fields has launched a fundraising campaign to save its historic stained glass windows. One of Toronto’s oldest buildings, the Anglican church at 103 Bellevue Ave. in Kensington Market was built in 1858. The impressive stained glass windows date from 1878, and were built by one of the leading stained glass studios in Canada at the time.

Experts have assessed the state of the windows and believe the windows are in extremely poor condition due to their age, which means they are at risk of glass failure at any time.

The parish is particularly keen on preserving the window depicting Mary Magdalene, which is a stained glass piece that is valued by the church and community alike. Saint Stephens is working with Eve Guinan Design-Restoration, a prominent stained glass conservationist.

It will cost over $150,000 to save the windows. Heritage Toronto has promised $75,000, contingent upon the church raising matching funds.

Saint Stephens launched its fundraising campaign on June 1. You can make a donation through the church’s website at saintstephens.ca, or send a cheque to the church. Charitable receipts will be issued for donations over $10.

—Billy Wilner/Gleaner News