The walls of St. Aidan’s Chapel are adorned with ten embroidered canvas tapestries created by Betty McLeod, each depicting a moment from the life and ministry of St. Aidan of Lindisfarne. Rich in colour, texture, and historical detail, the works bring to life the story of the seventh-century monk and bishop whose compassion, faith, and missionary work shaped Christianity in northern England.
The series begins with Aidan’s commissioning at Iona in 635 A.D. and follows his ministry through scenes of preaching, teaching, generosity, prayer, and leadership. Other embroideries portray moments such as King Oswald’s Easter generosity to the poor, Aidan calming stormy seas through prayer, and his care for the people of Northumbria. The final tapestry depicts the death of Bishop Aidan on August 31, 651.
The embroideries were given in memory of C. F. (Fred) MacKewn Sr. by his wife and family. Fred MacKewn was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Cathedral, where he was baptized, confirmed, and married. A respected London businessman, he also served on the Cathedral’s Board of Management and held a deep affection for St. Paul’s throughout his life.
Together, these tapestries remain one of the Cathedral’s most treasured artistic features, creating a beautiful and contemplative visual journey through the life of one of the great saints of the Celtic Christian tradition. Scroll below to read the story that goes along with each tapestry.
The story of St. Aidan begins with his commissioning from the monastery at Iona in 635 A.D. In this embroidery, the young monk Aidan is sent by the Abbott of Iona to bring the Christian faith to the people of Northumbria. King Oswald, himself a Christian, supported Aidan’s mission by providing land and resources for churches throughout the region. The monks are shown in traditional linen, wool, and leather garments, while the rich textures and layered fabrics bring warmth and depth to the scene.
Now serving as Bishop, Aidan travels from village to village throughout Northumbria, preaching and baptizing. This embroidery reflects the heart of his ministry and visually expresses the message of Christ crucified. Betty McLeod’s imaginative use of fabric gives movement and energy to the scene, capturing Aidan’s dedication and tireless mission.
During an Easter feast, King Oswald learns that the poor are gathered outside his hall in need of food. Without hesitation, he gives away his meal and even breaks apart his silver platter to share with them. Deeply moved by this act of generosity, Aidan blesses the king, praying that his hand may never wither. Tradition tells that after Oswald’s death in battle, his hand remained untouched.
This embroidery portrays Bishop Aidan teaching twelve English boys the Christian faith. Clothed in traditional garments of the period, the students reflect the lasting impact of Aidan’s ministry. Several of these boys would later become influential bishops themselves, carrying on the Christian mission throughout England.
This piece depicts Lindisfarne, the small tidal island off the northeast coast of England chosen by Aidan as the center of his ministry. From this peaceful yet remote place, Aidan guided and taught the people of Northumbria for seventeen years, building a strong and lasting Christian community.
One of the most visually striking embroideries in the series, this scene tells the story of Bishop Aidan calming stormy seas through prayer. Before setting sail to bring Princess Eanfled safely to King Oswy, the priest Utta asks Aidan for guidance. Aidan gives him holy oil and instructs him to pour it upon the waters during the storm. As foretold, the seas are calmed and the journey ends safely. The embroidery beautifully captures the glowing sunset, the movement of the sea, and the delicate detail of the small vessel.
King Oswyn gifts Bishop Aidan a fine horse so he will no longer need to travel on foot. Yet when a poor man asks for help, Aidan immediately gives away the horse. When questioned by the king, Aidan reminds him of the greater value of human life over material possessions. This warm and memorable scene reflects Aidan’s humility, generosity, and compassion.
This embroidery depicts the siege of Bamburgh by King Penda and his army. As flames rise against the city walls, Aidan — watching from Lindisfarne — prays for deliverance. Suddenly, the wind changes direction and drives the fire back toward the attackers, forcing them to retreat. The dramatic scene is filled with vivid historical details and striking imagery.
Bishop Aidan is shown teaching the noblewomen Heiu and Hilda within a seventh-century manor house. Heiu became the first woman in Northumbria to take religious vows and later founded the Monastery of Hartlepool. Hilda would go on to become one of England’s most beloved abbesses and saints, known for founding monasteries and encouraging learning and faith.
The final embroidery portrays the death of Bishop Aidan in 651. Resting in a small shelter beside his church at Bamburgh, Aidan’s passing is marked with deep solemnity and reflection. The darker tones of the piece convey both sorrow and gratitude for a life devoted to faith, compassion, and service.