Westminster Abbey

An Easter Day Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 19:00:00 +0000

'Turn to the back of the book, read the last sentence too soon, and you spoil the story. It is a mistake we can make at Easter. ‘The day of resurrection, earth tell it out abroad’. That’s a marvellous beginning. Easter Day is a great proclamation, but then we’re tempted to rush headlong, up from earth into the sky. It’s Easter and we are all going to heaven. ‘from earth unto the sky, our Christ has brought us over’ we sing in that famous Easter hymn. We have turned to the last page. Our telling of the story ends too soon.'

Listen to a reflection for Easter Sunday by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster.

After spending Lent exploring the life and work of Jesus through the 'I Am' statements in John's gospel, we now move to the events of Holy Week. From Palm Sunday to Easter Day, our reflections now focus on the meaning behind each significant day of Holy Week. Thank you for joining us as we've followed the story of Jesus – from triumph to tragedy, from the cross to the empty tomb. We wish you a very Happy Easter.

A Holy Saturday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

'To talk of ‘descent’ is, of course, a metaphor – the closest we can get to understanding what is going on. But Holy Saturday is when this metaphor must yield to another; of rising, of being raised. The descent into the human condition; into suffering and death and into the furthest alienation from love and life, reaches its limit today.'

Listen to a reflection for Holy Saturday by the Reverend Mark Birch, Canon Rector at the Abbey.

After spending Lent exploring the life and work of Jesus through the 'I Am' statements in John's gospel, we now move to the events of Holy Week. From Palm Sunday to Easter Day, our reflections now focus on the meaning behind each significant day of Holy Week. Join us as we follow the story of Jesus – from triumph to tragedy, from the cross to the empty tomb.

A Good Friday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

'Throughout Lent we have considered Jesus through his own statements of who he is: the I Am statements that fill us with metaphor and meaning as we contemplate Christ. But here, on Good Friday, we seem to gaze upon a frightening emptiness made more excruciatingly obvious by Pilate’s perhaps-ironic inscription: the King of the Jews. There are no loaves nor fishes here, no vine nor sheep, just a broken body nailed to a cross.'

Listen to a reflection for Good Friday by the Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Sacrist at the Abbey.

After spending Lent exploring the life and work of Jesus through the 'I Am' statements in John's gospel, we now move to the events of Holy Week. From Palm Sunday to Easter Day, our reflections now focus on the meaning behind each significant day of Holy Week. Join us as we follow the story of Jesus – from triumph to tragedy, from the cross to the empty tomb.

A Maundy Thursday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

'Jesus kneels in front of them. This is the posture of an incarnate God; Jesus does not seek to control or coerce, there is no manipulation here. Simply the demonstration of loving, tender service, and a command to do as he does. That is the heart of the new commandment – the mandatum from which we get our word Maundy – to love one another, as Christ has loved us.'

Listen to a reflection for Maundy Thursday by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian and Almoner at the Abbey.

After spending Lent exploring the life and work of Jesus through the 'I Am' statements in John's gospel, we now move to the events of Holy Week. From Palm Sunday to Easter Day, our reflections now focus on the meaning behind each significant day of Holy Week. Join us as we follow the story of Jesus – from triumph to tragedy, from the cross to the empty tomb.

A Palm Sunday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

'It is often said, but if we just skip from Palm Sunday to Easter Day, we will have missed all the important bits. We might be more inclined to think that this is some magical happily-ever-after story, rather than the deep Divine engagement in rejection and suffering and death that we discover through Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday. These are the days that explore why the resurrection of Jesus might be good news for all of us, not just good news for him.'

Listen to a reflection for Palm Sunday by the Reverend Mark Birch, Canon Rector at the Abbey.

After spending Lent exploring the life and work of Jesus through the 'I Am' statements in John's gospel, we now move to the events of Holy Week. From Palm Sunday to Easter Day, our reflections now focus on the meaning behind each significant day of Holy Week. Join us as we follow the story of Jesus – from triumph to tragedy, from the cross to the empty tomb.

Lent V: I Am the Resurrection and the Life

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

'The keeping of passiontide, which we begin today, is a kind of spiritual marathon. And as with any marathon, we need to hold the end in our mind’s eye. It is not just that we will remember the events of Jesus’s passion, death and resurrection, over these next weeks. It is also that we will be re-membered by them. Our fragile humanity has been put back together by the death and resurrection of Jesus, so that we need no longer fear death.'

Listen to a reflection for the Fifth Sunday of Lent by the Reverend Dr Jamie Hawkey, Canon Theologian and Almoner at the Abbey.

Each week during Lent, the lectionary explores the life and work of Jesus of Nazareth from the perspective of the Gospel of John. One of the ways that John’s gospel identifies what Jesus is like is through his ‘I Am’ statements. From ‘I am the bread of life’ to ‘I am the Good Shepherd’, these seven statements help us learn who Jesus is, and what it means to follow Him as disciples. Our reflections will explore these statements throughout the forty days of this season.

Lent IV: I Am the Light of the World

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:30:00 +0000

'Jesus said: “I am the light of the world.” Sometimes, that light is pretty literal. At the Transfiguration, Jesus shone so brightly that the disciples had to look away. But Jesus is never just something to look at - to observe. Jesus is also the light by which we see. The light that shines in the darkness, so that we might see all that he has made. And that light is not always as flattering as we might want it to be...'

Listen to a reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Lent by the Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Sacrist at the Abbey.

Lent III: I Am the True Vine

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

'Of course, ‘body ‘and ‘vine’ are both metaphors, used to help us imagine a truth, the depth of dependency on each other in Christ, that we would otherwise find impossible to grasp. Precisely how we are one body, branches of the one true vine, is deeply mysterious to us, but it is like this; like a body, like a vine. Baptism and Holy Communion enact this spiritual truth, not just as an idea, but as something practical, physical; to do with bodies and not just our minds.'

Listen to a reflection for the Third Sunday of Lent by the Reverend Mark Birch, Canon Rector at the Abbey.

Lent II: I Am the Good Shepherd

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

'In John’s Gospel, we are reminded again and again that this Good Shepherd is not only a pastoral figure working with those in his immediate orbit around Galilee and Jerusalem – he is also the Eternal Word of the Father, the One through whom all creation came to be, whose life is the light of all people, and who shall come to be their judge. This shepherd reaches right into the heart of things, gathering us together. '

Listen to a reflection for the Second Sunday of Lent by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian and Almoner at the Abbey.

Lent I: The Bread of Life

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:30:00 +0000

'Every Eucharist, we are brought face to face with this abundance that does not operate on our own terms. At the altar, we are not given what we want or a vision of God which conforms to our own devices and desires, but instead we are given the bread of life.'

Listen to a reflection for the First Sunday of Lent by the The Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Sacrist and Minor Canon at Westminster Abbey.

Ash Wednesday: The Way, the Truth and the Life

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

'Ash Wednesday, Lent begins and we think hard about our failings. Why do I keep going wrong? We think in fact about temptation and a pattern of failure. Why is it that I keep chasing after the wrong things?'

Join us for a reflection on Ash Wednesday by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle.

Feast of the Epiphany Reflection: Gifts of the Magi

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Reverend James Hawkey explores the gifts the Magi brought to Jesus, and asks what we might lay at Christ's feet in this new year.

This reflection for the Feast of the Epiphany is the last of a series of reflections from the seasons of Advent and Christmas. To explore other reflections from the season, visit our website at www.westminster-abbey.org/christmas/

Christmas I Reflection: God of refuge

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Canon Mark Birch explores the story of the Holy Family's flight into Egypt, and God's welcome of all.

Join us during the Christmas season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and remember what this gift means for us and the world today. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey have explored the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through Advent and into Christmas. You're invited to continue the journey with us as we celebrate Christ's coming, and make room for him in our hearts. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your faith journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/christmas/

Christmas Day Reflection: The beginning of everything

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Merry Christmas from Westminster Abbey! In this reflection, the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle explores the good news of Jesus' birth through the Gospel of John.

Join us during the Christmas season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and remember
what this gift means for us and the world today. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey have explored the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through Advent and into Christmas. You're invited to continue the journey with us as we celebrate Christ's coming, and make room for him in our hearts. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your faith journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/christmas/

Advent IV Reflection: God's faithfulness to us

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Abbey's Sacrist, the Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, discusses the meaning of Zechariah's prophecy, and how God remains faithful to us even when we doubt.

Join us over the Advent season as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey explore the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through the prophet Isaiah and the Gospels. You're invited to journey with us as we examine and reorient our lives in hope in this season, looking forward to the celebration of Christmas and awaiting Jesus' promised return. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your Advent journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/advent/

Advent III Reflection: God's judgement of love

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian at the Abbey, explores Mary's Magnificat and what her prophetic words tell us about the great and mighty wonder of God's love.

Join us over the Advent season as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey explore the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through the prophet Isaiah and the Gospels. You're invited to journey with us as we examine and reorient our lives in hope in this season, looking forward to the celebration of Christmas and awaiting Jesus' promised return. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your Advent journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/advent/

Advent II Reflection: What are we hoping for?

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 00:15:00 +0000

The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, talks about the traditional themes of Advent and how Isaiah helps us identify our hopes for God's future.

Join us over the Advent season as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey explore the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through the prophet Isaiah and the Gospels. You're invited to journey with us as we examine and reorient our lives in hope in this season, looking forward to the celebration of Christmas and awaiting Jesus' promised return. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your Advent journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/advent/

Advent I Reflection: Looking Back and Looking Forward

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Listen as the Reverend Canon Mark Birch reflects on words from the Book of Isaiah, exploring how during Advent we look back at the life of Jesus and look forward to His coming again.

Join us over the Advent season as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This year, clergy from Westminster Abbey explore the 'great and mighty wonder' of God's promise through the prophet Isaiah and the Gospels. You're invited to come along as we examine and reorient our lives with hope in this season, looking forward to the celebration of Christmas and awaiting Jesus' promised return. Discover more resources from the Abbey for your Advent journey at www.westminster-abbey.org/advent/

An Easter Sunday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, reflects on the meaning of Easter, and how Jesus Christ's resurrection shows us what it means to be perfectly human.

Join us in the observance of Easter Day, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/easter/

A Holy Saturday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Today, the Church sits in silence, remembering Christ's body being laid in the tomb. The Reverend Catherine Williams considers the meaning of this day of prayer and reflection. We welcome Catherine Williams - an Anglican priest, spiritual director, and writer - as a guest contributor to our reflections throughout this season.

Join us in the observance of Holy Week, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/easter/

A Good Friday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Why is Good Friday good? The Reverend Dr Ishaya Anthony, Commonwealth Theologian at Westminster Abbey, reflects on Jesus' death.

Join us in the observance of Holy Week, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/easter/

A Maundy Thursday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Catherine Williams considers the meaning of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet on Maundy Thursday in this Holy Week reflection. We welcome Catherine Williams - an Anglican priest, spiritual director, and writer - as a guest contributor to our reflections throughout this season.

The Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Minor Canon and Sacrist at the Abbey, reflects on the Arma Christi, the symbols of Christ’s passion, on the High Altar’s Lenten array.

Join us in the observance of Holy Week, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/easter/

A Palm Sunday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival, Minor Canon and Sacrist at the Abbey, reflects on the Arma Christi, the symbols of Christ’s passion, on the High Altar’s Lenten array.

Join us in the observance of Holy Week, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/easter/

Repentance as Self-Examination

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Catherine Williams reflects on Jesus and Mary’s interaction at Bethany, as we move towards Holy Week and the events of Christ’s passion and death. We welcome Catherine Williams - an Anglican priest, spiritual director, and writer - as a guest contributor to our reflections throughout this season.

Join us in the observance of the Lenten season, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/lent

Repentance for a New Life

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian and Almoner at the Abbey, examines Jesus’ beloved parable of the prodigal son, with its reminder of the new life that repentance can bring.

Join us in the observance of the Lenten season, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/lent
Receive these reflections and more in your inbox each week: https://westminster-abbey.org/subscribe

Growing through Repentance

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Catherine Williams discovers the meaning of Jesus' parable of the fig tree, and how we grow in faith through our repentance. We welcome The Reverend Catherine Williams - an Anglican priest, spiritual director, and writer - as a guest contributor to our reflections throughout this season.

Repentance Made Possible

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The Reverend Mark Birch discovers how our repentance is made possible through Jesus, bringing us closer to God.

Join us in the observance of the Lenten season, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/lent
Receive these reflections and more in your inbox each week: https://westminster-abbey.org/subscribe

Entering the Wilderness in Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Explore Jesus' journey through the wilderness, and how this inspires our Lenten journey of repentance. We welcome The Reverend Catherine Williams - an Anglican priest, spiritual director, and writer - as a guest contributor to our reflections throughout this season.

Join us in the observance of the Lenten season, wherever you are, through online resources and streamed services. Find out more at: https://westminster-abbey.org/lent
Receive these reflections and more in your inbox each week: https://westminster-abbey.org/subscribe

An Ash Wednesday Reflection

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Join The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, as he explores the significance of Ash Wednesday, and how it helps us enter into the season of Lent.

Feast of the Epiphany Reflection: God made manifest

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Join The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, on the Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord, as he explores why Christ’s birth matters. Listen to his reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/

Feast of the Holy Name : God who is revealed to us by name

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Discover how the Feast of the Holy Name and the Abbey's Islip Chapel are connected, in this reflection from The Reverend Canon James Hawkey. Listen to his reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/

A Reflection for the First Sunday of Christmas: God who is being revealed to us

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Ponder the meaning of young Jesus' teaching in the temple with The Reverend Amanda Bourne in a reflection for the First Sunday of Christmas. Listen to her reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/

Christmas Day Reflection: God who dwells with us

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Hear the good news of Christ's coming with The Very Reverend David Hoyle in this Christmas Day Reflection from Westminster Abbey. Listen to his reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/Advent/

Advent Reflection 4: God who has promised

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Explore Elizabeth and Mary's response to God's promise with The Reverend Canon Jamie Hawkey on this Fourth Sunday of Advent. Listen to his reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/Advent/

Advent Reflection 3: God who keeps faith for ever

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Join The Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival as she explores the psalm, reminding us of why we should 'rejoice in the Lord always'. Listen to her reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/Advent/

Advent Reflection 2: God who wants to be known

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

"God wants to be known in history" says The Reverend Canon Mark Birch, as he reflects on the Luke's gospel for the Second Sunday of Advent. Listen to his reflection and find out more about Advent and Christmas at Westminster Abbey at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/Advent/

Advent Reflection 1: Who are we expecting?

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Listen as The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, reflects on Luke’s gospel passage as we begin Advent and the new church year.

Hymns as Poetry: Charles Wesley’s Rejoice, the Lord is King

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Hear staff from Westminster Abbey as they reflect on the context and the meaning of popular Christian hymns and anthems that came from poetry.

In this episode, The Reverend Amanda Bourne gives a potted history and a personal reflection about the celebratory hymn Rejoice, the Lord is King.

Listen to the full track, and the rest of the album recorded by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Hymns as Poetry: Henry Francis Lyte’s Abide with me

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Hear staff from Westminster Abbey as they reflect on the context and the meaning of popular Christian hymns and anthems that came from poetry.

In this episode, The Reverend Helena Bickley-Percival contextualises the hymn Abide with me – from its origins and Biblical inspiration to its miraculous powers for solders in the First World War.

Listen to the full track, and the rest of the album recorded by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Hymns as Poetry: Edmund Spenser’s Faire is the heaven

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Hear staff from Westminster Abbey as they reflect on the context and the meaning of popular Christian hymns and anthems that came from poetry.

In this episode, sub-organist of Westminster Abbey Matthew Jorysz talks through how poetic lines about heaven and angels were turned into a double-choir anthem in Faire is the heaven.

Listen to the full track, and the rest of the album recorded by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Hymns as Poetry: John Milton’s Blest Pair of Sirens

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Hear staff from Westminster Abbey as they reflect on the context and the meaning of popular Christian hymns and anthems that came from poetry.

In this episode, Stuart O’Hara, a bass lay vicar in the Abbey Choir examines John Milton’s Blest Pair of Sirens and how careful composition is used to turn his words into a glorification of God.

Listen to the full track, and the rest of the album recorded by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Hymns as Poetry: William Blake’s Jerusalem

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 23:05:00 +0000

Hear staff from Westminster Abbey as they reflect on the context and the meaning of popular Christian hymns and anthems that came from poetry.

In this episode, The Reverend Mark Birch talks about William Blake and the context in which he was writing to produce the well-known verses of Jerusalem.

Listen to the full track, and the rest of the album recorded by the Choir of Westminster Abbey.

Sermon for Ascension Day 2024

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 11 May 2024 23:05:00 +0000

In his Ascension Day sermon, Acting Minor Canon Ralph Godsall talks about the significance and importance of the day and the different truths it offers. Ascension Day occurs forty days after Easter Day and it marks Christ’s Ascension into heaven. It is a celebration of the power and authority of the lordship of the risen Christ and the commissioning of his disciples to continue his work. The Ascension is closely connected with the theme of mission and anticipates the birth of the worldwide Church.

Address by The Dean of Westminster | ANZAC Day 2024

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 20:21:53 +0000

The Dean speaks about those who died at Gallipoli and those who have died in conflict since whilst drawing upon ideas the Book of Revelation wants to offer us: We should be known not forgotten. We belong together not apart. The Dean also tells a personal story about his Grandfather, who was saved by his bible and a cigarette case during the First World War. ANZAC Day is the anniversary of the landings on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey by allied forces on 25th April 1915. What followed was one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War. In Australia and New Zealand, ANZAC Day not only commemorates those first landings at Gallipoli, but also all Australians and New Zealanders who have given of themselves in the service of their countries and communities in the years since. Westminster Abbey has been closely associated with ANZAC Day commemorations from the very beginning. Services of Commemoration and Thanksgiving continue to be held regularly at the Abbey.

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Easter Day

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

On Easter Day, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle reminds us that Thomas needed proof of Jesus’ Resurrection, before reflecting upon what it means to be a Christian. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Holy Saturday

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Beginning with the Gospel according to Matthew 27:57-66, The Reverend Dr James Hawkey talks about the day of stillness, the reality of Jesus’ death and the significance of it today. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Good Friday

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

On Good Friday, The Reverend Mark Birch focuses on the distinction between the cross and the crucifix, and how we remember Jesus’ death as a perversion of justice. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Maundy Thursday

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle considers the Gospel according to John on Maundy Thursday, comparing the atmosphere in the city of Jerusalem to the words Jesus is sharing with his disciples. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Palm Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Beginning with a reading from the Gospel according to Mark, The Reverend Dr James Hawkey discusses the sentiment of Palm Sunday in relation to the story and legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Fifth Sunday of Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

On the fifth Sunday of Lent, the pivot between Lent and Passiontide, The Reverend Mark Birch considers the significance of pivotal moments. The reflection begins with a reading of John 12:20-33. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Fourth Sunday of Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Following a reading of John 3:14-21, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle reminds us of tales of snakes within the Bible and ponders the idea of temptation during Lent on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Third Sunday of Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 03 Mar 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Beginning with John 2:13-22, the reflection by The Reverend Dr James Hawkey on the third Sunday of Lent explores how people respond to sacred space as part of their worship. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Second Sunday of Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 00:05:00 +0000

On the second Sunday of Lent, The Reverend Mark Birch reflects on Peter’s denial of Jesus and how it is represented visually on the altar of the Lady Chapel with a crowing cockerel statue. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: First Sunday of Lent

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 00:05:00 +0000

On the first Sunday of Lent, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle considers the imagery of the shifting season and the role of nature within Lent, following a reading of Mark 1:9-15. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Ash Wednesday

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:05:00 +0000

Beginning with Matthew 6:16-21, The Reverend Dr James Hawkey explores the significance of the cross of ash being marked on foreheads on Ash Wednesday. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Lent and Easter reflections 2024: Trailer

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Join the Westminster Abbey community from wherever you are in the world with this upcoming series of reflections, including a Bible passage and a prayer from Abbey priests. Sign up to the newsletter to get reflections directly to your inbox: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/about-the-abbey/contact-us/sign-up-to-our-new-newsletter

Symposium: Dignity and Hostility

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 13:49:14 +0000

Archbishop Bashar Warda of Erbil and Tim Livesey, Chief Executive, Embrace the Middle East discuss discuss dignity and hostility Archbishop Bashar Warda is Archbishop of Erbil. Ordained a priest in 1993, he joined the Redemptorist order of Flanders in Belgium two years later. After receiving his MA at the Catholic University of Louvain in 1999 he returned to Iraq. In 2009 the Synod of Bishops of the Chaldean Catholic Church elected him for service as a bishop. Bishop Warda was consecrated in July 2010. Tim Livesey is Chief Executive of Embrace the Middle East, a medium-sized UK charity which works with 50 civil society and church affiliated partners helping to sustain Christian social witness in Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Israel and Iraq, including the Chaldean diocese in Erbil.

Dialogue: Dignity and Imprisonment

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 09:57:20 +0000

Lord Hastings of Scarisbrick CBE discusses dignity and imprisonment with a guest speaker from the Prison and Probation Service.

Symposium: The End of the Elizabethan eras

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 15:52:41 +0000

This discussion focuses on exploring the clash of cultures in Tudor and Modern times

NHS 75th Anniversary: Address by Amanda Pritchard, Chief Executive of NHS England

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:14:00 +0000

Amanda Pritchard, Chief Executive of NHS England, discusses the NHS.

'We come together today not to celebrate an idea, but to celebrate all those who have breathed life into it, who have made it mean something real to tens of millions of people over three quarters of a century, and who continue to give us hope for the future.'

NHS 75th Anniversary: Sermon by the Dean of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:07:29 +0000

The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle talks about the history, significance and importance of the National Health Service.

Institute Symposium: Harnessing technology

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 11:14:00 +0000

A discussion regarding the potential use of technology to heal divisions in public life. Featuring Rory Cellan-Jones, former BBC technology correspondent; Chi Onwurah, Labour MP for Newcastle and Dr Michael Burdett, philosophical theologian and Assistant Professor, Nottingham University.

The Bishop of Kensington Tribute

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:41:14 +0000

Read from the Nave Pulpit

Imran Khan - Grenfell Memorial Tribute

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:34:51 +0000

Read from the Nave Pulpit

Jon Snow Grenfell Tribute

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:26:15 +0000

Read from the Nave pulpit

Desmond Tutu Choral Evensong - Address by The Reverend Nontombi Naomi Tutu

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 09:26:49 +0000

The Reverend Nontombi Naomi Tutu, daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, gives the Address at a Choral Evensong with Thanksgiving for the life and work of Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Benefact Group service - Testimonial by Jay Blades

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 14:18:00 +0000

Television presenter Jay Blades MBE gives a the testimonial at the Benefact Group Service of Thanksgiving. The service celebrated that over £100 million has been raised for good causes by the Benefact Group.

The Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture 2022: Securing a Europe of peace, freedom and justice

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 24 May 2022 15:39:42 +0000

Lord Adonis gives the 36th annual Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture at Westminster Abbey. Money has long been associated with moral danger and the deliberate parting with it is generally seen as something to be honoured and encouraged. But globalisation of markets, environmental degradation and the rise of technology have created new geographies of ethical risk which national governments find it hard to tackle. Knowing how money talks and that much change is needed, how do we work out where it is now safe to stand?

Florence Nightingale Service 2022 - Address given by Lord Sentamu

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 12 May 2022 11:40:53 +0000

The Rt Reverend and Rt Hon the Lord Sentamu of Lindisfarne and Masooli gave the Address during the service to commemorate the life of Florence Nightingale.

ANZAC Day Service 2022 - Dean's Address

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:51:35 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, gives the Address during the the Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark ANZAC Day 2022.

Service of Thanksgiving for The Duke of Edinburgh - Address by The Dean of Windsor

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:36:53 +0000

The Right Reverend David Conner, Dean of Windsor, talks about The Duke of Edinburgh in his Address.

Service of Thanksgiving for The Duke of Edinburgh - Tribute by Doyin Sonibare

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:17:00 +0000

Doyin Sonibare, a Gold Award holder from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, gives a Tribute, talking about how the Duke of Edinburgh's Award has benefited her.

Audio: Serving as a Leader? lecture

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 12:42:31 +0000

Audio of the conversation with the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick as she draws on her long experience in the police force and now as its most senior leader to discuss the meaning of serving as a leader.

In conversation: Serving as a Leader? discussion

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:31:50 +0000

A conversation featuring Director of Westminister Abbey Institute, Claire Foster-Gilbert about the Serving as a Leader? talk.

The Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture: Money, Bias and the Geography of the Heart

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 10:42:04 +0000

Loretta Minghella gives the 35th annual Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture at Westminster Abbey.

Money has long been associated with moral danger and the deliberate parting with it is generally seen as something to be honoured and encouraged. But globalisation of markets, environmental degradation and the rise of technology have created new geographies of ethical risk which national governments find it hard to tackle. Knowing how money talks and that much change is needed, how do we work out where it is now safe to stand?

Sung Eucharist for The Feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey - Sermon

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:02:14 +0000

The Reverend Canon Carl F. Turner, Rector of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, gave the sermon for the Feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey

Sermon at Sung Eucharist for the Feast of The Translation of St Edward the Confessor 2021

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:06:00 +0000

The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, gave the sermon at Sung Eucharist for the Feast of The Translation of St Edward the Confessor on 13th October 2021.

Judges Service - Sermon

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 15:05:27 +0000

The Venerable Sheila Watson, Preacher of Lincoln's Inn, gave the sermon.

Abbeycast - Sermon at the Florence Nightingale Service 2021

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 May 2021 15:44:55 +0000

Listen to the Sermon delivered by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London during the Florence Nightingale Service 2021.

The Reverend pays thanks to nurses and healthcare workers on the front line during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Sermon was delivered on what would have been Florence Nightingale's 101st birthday.

Abbeycast - ANZAC Day service: Sermon by the Dean of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 15:45:27 +0000

Listen to the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle's sermon given during the ANZAC Day service on Sunday 25th April 2021.

Abbeycast - A podcast for the Feast of the Annunciation

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 09:00:00 +0000

This 32-minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Abbey’s magnificent Chapter House.

Introduced by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Address by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: Sarah Clarke OBE, Lady Usher of the Black Rod

Ave Maris Stella from Le tombeau de Titelouze – Marcel Dupré

Introduction: The Reverend Mark Birch

Reading: Luke 1: 26-38 Sarah Clarke

Prière à Notre Dame from Suite Gothique – Léon Boëllmann

Address: Canon Hawkey

Anthem: Mater Christi sanctissima – John Taverner

Prayers and Blessing: The Reverend Mark Birch

Fuga sopra il Magnificat BWV 733 – JS Bach

Music: The anthem is performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records). Organ music, which was specially recorded earlier this week, is played by Charles Maxtone-Smith, Organ Scholar.

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast for Ash Wednesday

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 09:00:00 +0000

This 28-minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Florence Nightingale Chapel in Westminster Abbey.

Introduced by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Janet Hoyle

Miserere – William Byrd

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: Isaiah 58: 1-12 Janet Hoyle

Erbarm’ dich mein, O herre Gott BWV 721 – JS Bach

Address: The Dean

Anthem: Kyrie eleison (from Missa Brevis) – William Walton

Prayers and Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Aus tiefer Not, schrei ich zu dir BWV 687 – JS Bach

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast for Candlemas

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 15:02:24 +0000

This 19 minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Abbey’s magnificent Lady Chapel.

Introduced by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Address by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: Janet Hoyle

Introduction: The Dean

Reading: Luke 2: 22-40 Janet Hoyle

Address: The Reverend Mark Birch

Anthem: Nunc Dimittis, Stanford in A

Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast for the Feast of the Epiphany of The Lord

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 16:30:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the Feast of the Epiphany of The Lord.

This 14 minute service includes a reading, an address and music, recorded this week at the crib.

Introduced by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Address by Canon Hawkey

Introduction: Canon Hawkey
Epiphany Gospel: Matthew 2: 1-12 The Reverend Mark Birch

Address: Canon Hawkey

Anthem: Jonathan Dove, The Three Kings

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast for Advent Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

This 19 minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week at the two Jesse Trees, made by the sculptor Benno Elkan, and representing scenes from the Old and New Testaments.

Introduced by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Address by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: Carol Hawkey

Introduction: The Dean

Reading: Mark 13: 24-37 Carol Hawkey

Address: The Reverend Mark Birch

Anthem: Francisco Guerrero Canite Tuba

Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Hymn: Lo, He comes with clouds descending

Music: Recorded earlier this week in the Abbey by the Choir of Westminster Abbey and conducted by James O’Donnell.

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast from Westminster Abbey for the Feast of Christ the King

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey for the Feast of Christ the King.

This 16 minute service includes an introit, prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week on the Abbey's magnificent Cosmati pavement in front of the High Altar.

Introduced by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: David Fugurally, Department for Education, Fellow of Westminster Abbey Institute

Introit: Sergei Rachmaninoff To thee, O Lord

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: Matthew 25: 31–46 David Fugurally

Address: The Reverend Mark Birch

Anthem: Benjamin Britten Hymn of St Columba

Prayers and Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Recorded earlier this week in the Abbey by the Choir of Westminster Abbey and conducted by James O’Donnell.

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - A podcast for ‘The Parable of the Talents’

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on ‘The Parable of the Talents’.

This 15 minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Abbey's magnificent Nave.

Introduced by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Address by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: The Reverend Tricia Hillas, Chaplain to the Speaker, Priest Vicar of Westminster Abbey

Introduction: The Dean

Reading: Matthew 25: 14–30 The Reverend Tricia Hillas

Address: Canon Hawkey

Anthem: John Ireland Ex ore innocentium

Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Cerys Matthews reads from a letter

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:34:01 +0000

Cerys Matthews reads from a letter written by a widow after attending the burial of the Unknown Warrior at the Centenary of the Burial of the Unknown Warrior on Wednesday 11th November 2020.

Simon Armitage reads his poem, 'The Bed'

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:32:59 +0000

Simon Armitage CBE, Poet Laureate, reads his own composition, ‘The Bed’ at a special service marking the centenary of the burial of the Unknown Warrior, on Wednesday 11th November 2020.

Boris Johnson, Prime Minister's reading

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:30:12 +0000

The Right Honourable Boris Johnson MP, Prime Minister, reads an extract from the diary of a blind veteran who attended the burial of the Unknown Warrior.

HRH The Prince of Wales reading

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:25:26 +0000

The Prince of Wales read John 15: 12–17 at the Centenary of the Burial of the Unknown Warrior on Wednesday 11th November 2020.

Archbishop of Canterbury Sermon

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:18:31 +0000

The Sermon given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Centenary of the Burial of the Unknown Warrior on Wednesday 11th November 2020.

Abbeycast - A podcast for Remembrance Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 08 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Remembrance Sunday.

This 17-minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior.

Led by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Canon Hawkey

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: John 15: 9-13 Canon Hawkey

Address: The Dean

Anthem: Herbert Howells Take him, earth, for cherishing

Prayers and Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - ‘A podcast for All Souls’ Day’

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the feast of All Souls’ Day.

This twenty six minute service includes prayers, a reading, a sermon, music and a blessing, recorded this week and includes extracts from a Sung Eucharist held in the Abbey to mark All Souls' Day on Monday.

Introduced by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex

Sermon by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Introduction: The Reverend Mark Birch

Reading: Romans 5: 5-1 The Countess of Wessex

Sermon: The Dean

Music: The Introit and Kyrie from the Durufle Requiem

Prayers: The Revd Dr Sarah Archer, Ambassador for Loss and HOPE - equipping the Church to help the bereaved. Their main resource is The Bereavement Journey.

Blessing: The Reverend Mark Birch

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - ‘St Edward – King and Confessor’: A podcast for the Feast of the Translation of St Edward

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the Feast of the Translation of St Edward.

This 16 minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Abbey's magnificent shrine of St Edward the Confessor.

Introduced by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Address by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: Simrin Rahman, a student at Harris Westminster Sixth Form

Introduction: The Dean

Reading: Matthew 20: 20-28 Simrin Rahman

Address: Canon Hawkey

Anthem: Bruckner Os iusti meditabitur

Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast - 'Angels ascending and descending’: A podcast for St Michael and All Angels

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the feast of St Michael and All Angels.

This 16 minute service includes prayers, a reading, an address, music and a blessing, recorded this week in the Abbey's magnificent 16th-century Lady Chapel.

Introduced by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Address by the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Bryony Strickland

Introduction: The Reverend Mark Birch

Reading: John 1: 47–end: Bryony Strickland

Address: The Dean

Anthem: Tippett Plebs angelica

Prayers and Blessing: The Reverend Mark Birch

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: Holy is his name - A podcast to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, and the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 15 Aug 2020 10:20:21 +0000

A podcast to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, and the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

On VJ Day the Abbey joined national celebrations by holding services on 15th and 16th August 1945 which were attended by great numbers of people.

A service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week in the Chapel of the Holy Name.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Address by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: The Right Reverend Augustine Naoaki Kobayashi, Bishop of Kobe, Anglican Church in Japan.

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: Luke 1: 46-55 (Bishop Kobayashi)
Address: Canon Hawkey
Anthem: Gerald Finzi Magnificat
Prayers: Captain Kathryn Leworthy
Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

A contemplation of Hope

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 11:43:23 +0000

A lecture given by Jenny McCarthy, a journalist and author who grew up in Northern Ireland and now lives in London.

Part of Hope, Westminster Abbey Institute’s 2020 spring programme.

What is Hope?

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 14:14:20 +0000

A lecture given by James Hawkey, Canon Theologian of Westminster Abbey. Dr Hawkey is a fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, and a visiting lecturer at King’s College London.

Part of Hope, Westminster Abbey Institute’s 2020 spring programme.

Abbeycast: Come unto me - A podcast for the fourth Sunday after Trinity

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 07:30:00 +0000

A podcast on the fourth Sunday after Trinity marking the re-opening of the Abbey for public worship - the final episode in our series of Sunday worship podcasts produced during lockdown.

Worship podcasts will be produced for feast days and major anniversaries from now on. Please subscribe to be notified of releases.

A service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week in the nave of the Abbey.

Introduced by the Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Address by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: Dr Mariama Ifode-Blease, Queen’s Almsman

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: Matthew 11: 16–19, 25–30 Dr Mariama Ifode-Blease

Address: Canon Hawkey

Anthem: Edward Elgar O Hearken thou

Prayers and Blessing: The Reverend Mark Birch

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: Tu es Petrus - A podcast for St Peter’s Day

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 07:30:00 +0000

Saint Peter is the Abbey’s patron saint, and on St Peter’s Day the Collegiate Body and wider Abbey community would usually be celebrating with a Festal Eucharist. This year we mark St Peter’s Day with a special podcast which includes a reading by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. This episode reflects on the Abbey’s dedication to St Peter, and on the inspiration St Peter offers us in the life of faith.

A 15-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week in the Sacrarium in front of the statue of St Peter by the High Altar.

Introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Reader: Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: Matthew 16: 13–19 HRH The Princess Royal

Address: The Dean

Anthem: Palestrina Tu es Petrus

Prayers and Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: The Rewards of Hospitality - A podcast for Third Sunday after Trinity

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 07:30:00 +0000

The Rule of St Benedict tells us to offer hospitality as if we were entertaining Christ. Recorded in the monastic ‘Cellarium’, which is now a café, this podcast considers themes of welcome and hospitality, as lockdown begins to ease, and places of hospitality begin to re-open. But what do we gain by being hospitable to one another? Perhaps, quite literally, everything.

A 20-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Address by The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: Major General Christopher Ghika, General Officer Commanding London District and Major General Commanding the Household Division

Introduction: The Dean

Reading: Matthew 10: 40-42 Major General Christopher Ghika

Address: The Reverend Mark Birch

Anthem: Sir William Harris Strengthen ye thy weak hands

Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: A Narnia Tale - A podcast for Second Sunday after Trinity

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 21 Jun 2020 07:30:00 +0000

CS Lewis’s writings have offered inspiring commentary on the Christian faith to people from across the world over many years. This week’s podcast draws inspiration from some of Lewis’s writings and reflections.

A 17-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week in Poets’ Corner by the memorial to CS Lewis, Anglican scholar and spiritual writer, which was dedicated in 2013 on the 50th anniversary of his death.

Introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Dr Linda Yueh, Executive Chair, Royal Commonwealth Society

Introduction: Canon Hawkey

Reading: Matthew 10: 24–39 - Dr Linda Yueh

Address: The Dean

Anthem: John Tavener The peace that surpasseth understanding

Prayers and Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: The Harvest is rich - A podcast for First Sunday after Trinity

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 07:30:00 +0000

In the gospels, Jesus gathers the disciples around him, and then sends them out to share his mission in the world. His mission is our mission, yet we do not possess it. Rather it can become the narrative which gives shape to our lives.

A 22-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week at the North Door, which was originally the grand entrance of the Abbey.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Address by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Westminster and Deputy High Steward of Westminster Abbey, Councillor Jonathan Glanz

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: Matthew 9: 35–10: 8 The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Jonathan Glanz
Address: Canon Hawkey
Anthem: William Walton The Twelve
Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: Relating without rivalry – a podcast for Trinity Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 07:30:00 +0000

The Holy Trinity can sometimes sound a bit like a mathematical problem (‘Three in One, and One in Three’), but this podcast explores whether it is, in fact, a key to understanding not just God, but ourselves, and the kind of relationships for which we are made.

A 19-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week in the 13th century Chapter House in the East Cloister – originally a meeting place where the monks gathered with the abbot to pray and discuss the day’s business.

Introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor

Reader: Dame Cressida Dick, The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service

Introduction: Canon Hawkey
Reading: Matthew 28: 16–20 Dame Cressida Dick
Address: The Reverend Mark Birch
Anthem: John Sheppard Libera nos, salva nos
Prayers/Blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Dame Cressida Dick's reading was recorded in May.

Abbeycast: Come Holy Spirit – a podcast for Pentecost

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 31 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A special ecumenical episode bringing Christian leaders together to celebrate Pentecost.

A 15-minute service of prayers, reading, address, music and blessing recorded this week on the Cosmati pavement – a 750-year old pavement in front of the High Altar where coronations have taken place for hundreds of years.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Address by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain

Prayers: Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster
The Reverend Michaela Youngson, Chair of the London District of the Methodist Church

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: John 20: 19-23 Archbishop Nikitas
Address: Canon Hawkey

Prayer: Cardinal Nichols

Anthem: Thomas Tomkins O sing unto the Lord a new song

Prayer: The Reverend Michaela Youngson

Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: O Clap Your Hands – a podcast for Anglican Communion Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 24 May 2020 07:30:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Anglican Communion Sunday for worshippers everywhere.

A 17 minute service of prayers, reading, sermon, music and blessing recorded this week in the north transept where pilgrims and visitors have entered Westminster Abbey for hundreds of years.

Introduced by the Reverend Canon Anthony Ball, Canon Steward

Address by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Reader: The Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, The Most Reverend Dr Josiah Idowu-Fearon.

Introduction: Canon Ball
Reading: John 17: 1–11 (Archbishop Idowu-Fearon)
Address: The Dean
Anthem: Ralph Vaughan Williams O Clap your hands

Prayers and blessing: Canon Ball

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: Ascension Day

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 21 May 2020 07:30:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Ascension Day for worshippers everywhere.

A service recorded this week in the glorious Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Address by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: HRH The Countess of Wessex

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: Luke 24: 44–53 (The Countess of Wessex)
Address: Canon Hawkey
Anthem: Charles Villiers Stanford, ‘Caelos Ascendit Hodie’, from 3 Motets, Op. 38
Prayers and blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: God’s abiding love - a podcast on the Sixth Sunday of Easter

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 17 May 2020 07:30:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the Sixth Sunday of Easter for worshippers everywhere.

A twenty-minute service recorded this week in the intimate setting of St Faith’s Chapel, Westminster Abbey, focusing on the Easter gift of God’s abiding love.

Introduced by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Address by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Reader: The Bishop of London, the Right Reverend and Right Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE

Introduction: Canon Hawkey
Reading: John 14: 15–21 (Bishop Sarah)
Address: The Dean
Anthem: Edward Elgar, ‘The Spirit of the Lord’, from The Apostles Op. 49
Prayers and blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: 5th Sunday of Easter

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 10 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey for the fifth Sunday of Easter.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Recorded in the Florence Nightingale Chapel

Reader: Victor Funtanares, NHS paediatric nurse and Abbey Oblate

Introduction: The Dean
Gospel Reading (John 14: 1-14): Victor Funtanares
Address: The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor
Anthem: Stanford Beati quorum via
Prayers and Blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: 75th anniversary of VE Day

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 08 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey for the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle.

Recorded at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior.

Readers:
General Sir Nicholas Carter GCB, CBE, DSO, Chief of the Defence Staff
The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian
Barbara Weatherill, VE Day veteran

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: Psalm 46 (General Sir Nicholas Carter)
Gospel Reading: John 15:9-17 (Canon Hawkey)
Address: The Dean
Reflection: Barbara Weatherill
Anthem: Vaughan Williams Lord, thou hast been our refuge
Prayers: The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Precentor
Blessing: The Dean
Hymn: Herbert Howells All my hope on God is founded

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: Fourth Sunday of Easter

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 03 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the Fourth Sunday of Easter

Introduced by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Recorded at the Cloister Entrance, the gate leading to the Abbey’s cloisters

Address by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle

Reader: Alan Titchmarsh

Introduction: Canon Hawkey
Reading: John 10: 1-10 (Alan Titchmarsh)
Address: The Dean
Anthem: Henry Purcell, O God Thou Art My God
Prayers and blessing: Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Abbeycast: An Easter Podcast on ANZAC weekend

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on the Third Sunday of Easter following Anzac Day.

Introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle.

Recorded before the British Fighting Forces Memorial in Samaria within the Deanery of Westminster Abbey.

Address by the Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian.

Readers:
The Right Hon Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand
His Excellency the Honourable George Brandis QC, Australian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom

Introduction: The Dean
Reading: ‘Gallipoli Peninsula’ Alistair Te Ariki Campbell (Jacinda Arden)
Gospel Reading: Luke 24: 13-35 (George Brandis)
Address: Canon Hawkey
Anthem: Hubert Parry My soul, there is a country
Prayers and blessing: The Dean

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded with all contributors observing social distancing.

Reflection on ANZAC Day

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

An ANZAC Reflection by an Australian in London.

Abbey chaplain, The Reverend Jenny Petersen, who is currently in lockdown at the Abbey, explains how it feels to be an Australian in London for ANZAC. She reveals the special way she plans to mark the day when she would usually be attending the Abbey’s ANZAC Day service, and how she thinks ANZAC values can help at this time.

Jenny has lived in the UK for 34 years. She was born in Brunswick, Melbourne.

#LightUpTheDawn

Abbeycast: Low Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 19 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Low Sunday introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian.

Address: The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Dr Claire Foster-Gilbert, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute

Recorded in Infirmary Hall, a 14th century space which was once part of the monastic infirmary.

Introduction – Canon Hawkey
Reading – John 20: 19-31 (Dr Claire Foster-Gilbert)
Address – The Dean
Anthem – William Walton Jubilate Deo
Prayers, The Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

Abbeycast: Easter Day

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 12 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Easter Day introduced by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, with a reading by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

Address: The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales

Recorded in St Catherine’s Chapel Garden, Little Cloister – a small garden within the ruins of the 12th century St Catherine's chapel.

Introduction – The Dean

Reading – John 20: 1-18 (HRH The Prince of Wales)
Address – Canon Hawkey
Anthem – William Byrd Christ rising again from the dead
Prayers, The Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – The Dean
Hymn – Thine be the glory, risen, conquering Son

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded by members of the Westminster Abbey community who are currently in self-isolation in the Abbey precincts. Social distancing was observed.

Abbeycast: Holy Saturday

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 11 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Holy Saturday introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian.

Address: The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Carol Hawkey

Recorded in College Garden, a garden which has been in cultivation for over 900 years.

Introduction – Canon Hawkey
Reading –John 19: 38-42
Address – The Dean
Anthem – William Byrd Civitas sancti tui
Prayers, The Lord’s Prayer and Concluding Prayer – Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded by members of the Westminster Abbey community who are currently in self-isolation in the Abbey precincts. Social distancing was observed.

Abbeycast: Good Friday

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey for Good Friday introduced by The Reverend Canon Anthony Ball, Canon Steward.

Address: The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster
Reader: The Reverend Canon Jane Sinclair, Canon of Westminster and Rector of St Margaret's Church

Recorded in College Garden within the walls of the Abbey, at the crucifix by the Italian sculptor, Enzo Plazzotta.

Introduction – Canon Ball
Reading – Matthew 27: 32-50
Address – The Dean
Anthem – John Blow Salvator Mundi
Prayers and The Lord’s Prayer – Canon Ball
Orlando Gibbons Drop, drop slow tears
Concluding prayer – Canon Ball

Abbeycast: Maundy Thursday

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Maundy Thursday introduced by The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian.

Address: The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Sacrist

Reader: Carol Hawkey

Recorded in the East Cloister where the Abbot would perform a Maundy rite before the Reformation.

Introduction – Canon Hawkey
Reading – John 13: 3-14
Address – The Reverend Mark Birch
Anthem – Christopher Tye Give almes of thy goods
Prayers, The Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – Canon Hawkey

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded by members of the Westminster Abbey community who are currently in self-isolation in the Abbey precincts. Social distancing was observed.

Abbeycast: Palm Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Palm Sunday introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle.

Recorded in front of the Abbey’s Great West Door, above which stand statues commemorating ten modern martyrs – Christians who gave up their lives during the twentieth century.

Address: The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: The Reverend Jenny Petersen, Minor Canon and Chaplain

Introduction – The Dean

Reading – Luke 19: 28-40

Address – Canon Hawkey

Anthem – Philip Moore Prayers in time of distress (from Three Prayers of Dietrich Bonhoeffer)

Prayers, The Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – The Dean

Abbeycast: Passion Sunday

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on Passion Sunday introduced by The Reverend Mark Birch, Minor Canon and Sacrist.

Recorded in the Cloisters of Westminster Abbey.

Address: The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Reader: Megan Huntly

Introduction – The Reverend Mark Birch

Reading – John 11: 17-44 (Megan Huntly)

Address – The Dean

Anthem – Henry Purcell Hear my Prayer

Prayers, Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – The Reverend Mark Birch

Music: Performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded by members of the Westminster Abbey community who are currently in self-isolation in the Abbey precincts. Social distancing was observed, and the podcast was compiled remotely by Abbey staff.

Abbeycast: The Annunciation of Our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:35:43 +0000

A podcast from Westminster Abbey on The Annunciation of Our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary, 2020, introduced by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle.

Recorded at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pew, Westminster Abbey

Introduced by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster

Address from The Reverend Canon Dr James Hawkey, Canon Theologian

Reader: Carol Hawkey

Introduction – The Dean

Reading – Luke 1: 26-38 (Carol Hawkey)

Address – Canon Hawkey

Anthem – Orlando Gibbons See, see the Word is Incarnate

Prayers, Lord’s Prayer and Blessing – The Dean

Music: ‘See, see, the Word is incarnate’ composed by Orlando Gibbons, text by Bishop Godfrey Goodman, performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell (with kind permission of Hyperion Records).

This podcast was recorded by members of the Westminster Abbey community who are currently in self-isolation in the Abbey precincts. All personnel practiced social distancing during the making of this podcast.

Charles Gore Memorial Lecture 2020: A Theology of Hope for the 21st Century

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 11:10:13 +0000

The Charles Gore Memorial Lecture 2020 given by Professor Jürgen Moltmann, Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology, University of Tübingen. Chair: The Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Canon of Westminster.

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute's 'Hope' season.

A transcript of this talk can be found at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/charles-gore-memorial-lectures/charles-gore-lecture-2020

Hope in Society

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 11:02:38 +0000

Lecture given by Dame Barbara Stocking, President of Murray Edwards College, Cambridge, at Westminster Abbey on 25th February 2020. Introduced by Baroness D’Souza.

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute's 'Hope' season.

History Masterclass - Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 11:39:05 +0000

Renowned historian Dr John Guy’s lecture on Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. He discusses these two anointed queens who never met in life yet they lie buried at Westminster Abbey just a few metres from one another in the stunning Lady Chapel, built by Henry Tudor.

This lecture was recorded at Westminster Abbey’s annual History Masterclass event on 22nd January 2020.

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the Epiphany of Our Lord

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 10:10:34 +0000

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the Epiphany of Our Lord by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster

Sermon given on Christmas Day 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 10:44:43 +0000

Sermon given on Christmas Day 2019 by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster

Sermon given at Midnight Mass, Christmas 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 10:20:35 +0000

Sermon given at Midnight Mass, Christmas 2019, by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster

Sermon given by the Archbishop of Canterbury

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 10:39:07 +0000

Sermon given by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, at the Metropolitan Police Carol Service, 17th December 2019

Address given at the Sir Donald Gosling service

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Dec 2019 13:58:44 +0000

Address given by The Reverend Canon Roger Royle at A Service of Thanksgiving for the life and work of Vice Admiral Sir Donald Gosling KCVO RNR

Symposium: Art as Public Service

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 16:08:38 +0000

Speakers: Ben Quash, John Gilhooly and Marina Warner

Chair: Paul Baumann – Receiver General, Westminster Abbey

Ben Quash is Professor of Christianity and the Arts at King's College, London where he runs the MA in Christianity and the Arts in association with the National Gallery, London.

John Gilhooly has been Artistic and Executive Director of Wigmore Hall, London since 2005 and Chairman of the Royal Philharmonic Society since 2010.

Marina Warner is a writer of fiction, criticism and history; her works include novels, short stories and studies of art, myths, symbols and fairy tales.

Part of Art, Imagination and Public Service, Westminster Abbey Institute's 2019 autumn programme.

The Bishop of London's Address at the St Cecilia service, 2019

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 14:08:46 +0000

Address given the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullaly DBE, Bishop of London, at a service to Mark the Festival of St Cecilia, 2019

Ruling from the Heart: the poet and the cabinet minister

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 13:58:42 +0000

Speaker: Micheal O’Siadhail

Chair and interlocutor: Lord Blunkett

Micheal O’Siadhail is a poet who has published sixteen collections of poetry, the latest The Five Quintets. He has been a lecturer at Trinity College Dublin and a professor at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.

Lord Blunkett was MP for Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough for 28 years until 2015, and served as Education and Employment Secretary, Home Secretary and Work and Pensions Secretary in Tony Blair's Cabinet. He was awarded a peerage in 2015.

Part of Art, Imagination and Public Service, Westminster Abbey Institute’s 2019 autumn programme.

Sermon given by David Hoyle at his installation as Dean of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 10:09:17 +0000

Sermon given at Evensong with the Installation of Dr David Michael Hoyle as Dean of the Collegiate Church of St Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey, 16th November 2019.

A transcript is available at: https://www.westminster-abbey.org/abbey-sermons/dean-installation

Bureaucracy should be beautiful: the musician and the permanent secretary

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 11:49:54 +0000

Speaker: James O'Donnell

Chair and interlocutor: Clare Moriarty

James O’Donnell is Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey. Internationally recognised as a conductor and organ recitalist, he has performed all over the world and appeared in the BBC Proms and at many other festivals. As soloist and director James has worked with many of Britain's leading ensembles. He is Music Director of St James' Baroque and appears regularly with the BBC Singers. He is Visiting Professor of Organ and of Choral Conducting at the Royal Academy of Music and was President of the Royal College of Organists from 2011–2013.

Clare Moriarty is Permanent Secretary for the Department for Exiting the European Union. Previous roles include Permanent Secretary for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Director General, Rail Executive in the Department for Transport; and Constitutional Director, Ministry of Justice.

Part of Art, Imagination and Public Service, Westminster Abbey Institute's 2019 autumn programme.

Envisioning Justice: the painter and the judge

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 12:33:07 +0000

Speaker: Hughie O'Donoghue

Chair and interlocutor: Baroness Hale

Hughie O'Donoghue is a British painter and Royal Academician whose works explore themes of universal human experience. His paintings, often on an epic scale, meditate on ideas of truth and the relationship between memory and identity.

Baroness Hale is President of the Supreme Court. In 2009 she became the first woman Justice of the Supreme Court after a varied career as an academic lawyer, law reformer and judge.

Part of Art, Imagination and Public Service, Westminster Abbey Institute's 2019 autumn programme.

Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2019

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 09:38:33 +0000

Given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster

Sermon given at the London Mayors Evensong 2019

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 09:48:03 +0000

Sermon given at the London Mayors Evensong by The Right Reverend Peter Hill, Bishop of Barking

Sermon given at the Dedication Festival Sung Eucharist

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 09:35:35 +0000

Sermon given at the Dedication Festival Sung Eucharist by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster

The Archbishop of Canterbury's sermon at Edwardtide Festival Sung Eucharist

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 09:23:34 +0000

Sermon given at Edwardtide Festival Sung Eucharist by His Grace The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby

One People Oration 2019: Faith at the Heart of Nations? Reflections on the future of church and state

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 08:29:39 +0000

One People Oration 2019 - Faith at the Heart of Nations? Reflections on the future of church and state, given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall.

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

Celebrating the re-building of Westminster Abbey 1269 in the presence of HM The Queen

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 13:54:12 +0000

Sermon: Celebrating the re-building of Westminster Abbey 1269 in the presence of HM The Queen, given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster

Sermon given at the Evensong on The Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 11:33:26 +0000

Sermon given at the Evensong on The Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 2019, by The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on The Translation of St Edward the Confessor

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 11:22:18 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on The Translation of St Edward the Confessor by The Reverend Professor Sarah Foot Canon, Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, and Regius Professor of Ecclesiastical History, Oxford University

Sermon given by the Bishop of London at the Judges Services 2019

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 13:48:03 +0000

Sermon given by the Bishop of London at the Judges Services 2019

Address given at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication on Battle of Britain Sunday 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 08:45:25 +0000

Address given by Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) John Ellis, Chaplain-in-Chief of the Royal Air Force, at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication on Battle of Britain Sunday 2019

Address given by Sir John Major at the Paddy Ashdown Service

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 14:11:25 +0000

Address given by Sir John Major at A Service of Thanksgiving for the life and work of the Right Honourable The Lord Ashdown of Norton-sub-Hamdon GCMG, CH, KBE

#paddyashdown #liberaldemocrats #libdems #westminsterabbey

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist of St Peter

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 08:32:15 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist of St Peter, Westminster Abbey, 28th June 2019

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Corpus Christi

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 08:28:49 +0000

Sermon given by The Reverend Mark Birch at the Sung Eucharist on Corpus Christi at Westminster Abbey, 21st June 2019

Address given by Lord O'Donnell at the Lord Heywood service

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 08:18:57 +0000

Address given by The Right Honourable The Lord O’Donnell GCB at A Service of Thanksgiving for the life and work of Jeremy, Lord Heywood of Whitehall GCB CVO

Sermon given on the Day of Pentecost, 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 08:14:55 +0000

Sermon given on the Day of Pentecost by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

Sermon at Ascension Day 2019

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 31 May 2019 08:25:16 +0000

Sermon given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, on Ascension Day 2019 at Westminster Abbey

Address given at a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Westminster Hospital

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 23 May 2019 13:35:18 +0000

Address given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, at a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Westminster Hospital

Address given by Sally Mullally, Bishop of London at A Service of Thanksgiving to mark the centenary of police women in the Metropolitan Police Service

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 17 May 2019 14:09:43 +0000

The address given by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sally Mullally, Bishop of London, at A Service of Thanksgiving to mark the centenary of police women in the Metropolitan Police Service held at Westminster Abbey on Friday 17th May 2019

#100YearsStrong #MetropolitanPolice #BishopOfLondon #WestminsterAbbey

Address given at a Service to commemorate the life of Florence Nightingale and to mark the centenary of the funeral of Edith Cavell

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 15 May 2019 14:37:14 +0000

Address given by The Very Reverend Dr Jane Hedges, Dean of Norwich, at A Service to commemorate the life of Florence Nightingale and to mark the centenary of the funeral of Edith Cavell

#florencenightingale #edithcavell #janehedges #westminsterabbey

34th Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture - The Most Spiritual of the Arts: Music, Modernity, and the Search for the Sacred

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 10 May 2019 10:05:24 +0000

34th Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture - The Most Spiritual of the Arts: Music, Modernity, and the Search for the Sacred given by Sir James MacMillan, composer, conductor and artistic director, on Thursday 9th May 2019 at Westminster Abbey.

A transcript is available on Westminster Abbey's website.

#westminsterabbey #sirjamesmacmillan #music #christianity

Sermon given by The Most Reverend Rino Fisichella at Festival of Our Lady of Walsingham

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 May 2019 11:32:59 +0000

Sermon given by The Most Reverend Rino Fisichella, President of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation at Festival of Our Lady of Walsingham Solemn Evensong, Westminster Abbey, Saturday 4th May 2019

#OLW #westminsterabbey #rinofisichella

Lecture given by Eamon Duffy FBA at Festival of Our Lady of Walsingham

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 May 2019 11:24:58 +0000

Lecture given by Eamon Duffy FBA, Emeritus Professor of the History of Christianity at the University of Cambridge, at Festival Our Lady Walsingham, Westmister Abbey, Saturday 4th May 2019

#OLW #westminsterabbey #eamonduffy

Sermon given at Festival of Our Lady of Walsingham Solemn Eucharist

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 May 2019 10:38:15 +0000

Sermon given by The Right Reverend Philip North, Bishop of Burnley and Master of The Guardians of the Holy House, at Festival of Our Lady of Walsingham Solemn Eucharist held at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 4th May 2019 at 11:00am

#OLW #westminsterabbey

Address given by the Dean of Westminster at a service to recognise fifty years of Continuous At Sea Deterrent

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 May 2019 13:49:04 +0000

Address given by the Dean of Westminster at a service to recognise fifty years of Continuous At Sea Deterrent at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Friday 3rd May 2019.

#westminsterabbey #continuousatseadeterrent

Leading Engineering Technician Edward Owen gives a Testimony

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 May 2019 13:48:08 +0000

Leading Engineering Technician Edward Owen gives a Testimony at a service to recognise fifty years of Continuous At Sea Deterrent at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Friday 3rd May 2019.

#westminsterabbey #continuousatseadeterrent

Rear Admiral Tim Hodgson MBE gives a Testimony

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 May 2019 13:47:24 +0000

Rear Admiral Tim Hodgson MBE, Director Submarine Capability, Ministry of Defence, gives a Testimony at a service to recognise fifty years of Continuous At Sea Deterrent at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Friday 3rd May 2019.

#westminsterabbey #continuousatseadeterrent

Isobel Fraser gives a Testimony

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 May 2019 13:46:31 +0000

Isobel Fraser, wife of Chief Petty Officer Stewart Fraser, gives a Testimony at a service to recognise fifty years of Continuous At Sea Deterrent at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Friday 3rd May 2019.

#westminsterabbey #continuousatseadeterrent

Address given on ANZAC Day by The Dean of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 13:09:55 +0000

Address given at the ANZAC Day Service by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at Westminster Abbey, 25th April 2019

#ANZACDay #WestminsterAbbey

Sermon at Evensong on Easter Day 2019

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 11:11:30 +0000

Sermon given at Evensong on Easter Day by The Venerable David Stanton, Canon in Residence, on 21st April 2019

#easter #easterday #eastersunday #sermon #westminsterabbey

Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day 2019

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 10:50:30 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 21st April 2019

#eastersunday #easterday #easter #sermon #westminsterabbey

Meanings of justice in law, philosophy and politics

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 15:31:25 +0000

A panel discussion between Lord Judge, Professor Esther Reed and the Rt Hon Sir Malcolm Rifkind chaired by Paul Baumann, Receiver General, Westminster Abbey.

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute's Justice season

#westminsterabbeyinstitute #westminsterabbey #justice #malcolmrifkind

The Charles Gore Lecture: Justice, Mercy and Remembrance

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 10:22:29 +0000

The Reverend Professor Michael Banner, Dean of Trinity College, Cambridge, gives this year’s Charles Gore Lecture

Chair: The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute's Justice season

#westminsterabbeyinstitute #westminsterabbey #justice

Westminster Lecture: Is a just society possible?

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 12:43:47 +0000

The Reverend Jane Sinclair, Canon of Westminster, Rector of St Margaret's Church and Chair of Westminster Abbey Institute, in conversation with Mark Ormerod, Chief Executive, Supreme Court.

This event was part of Westminster Abbey Institute's 2019 spring programme 'Justice'.

#westminsterabbeyinstitute #justice #westminsterabbey

Westminster Lecture: Can institutions be just?

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 10:53:16 +0000

Dr Claire Foster-Gilbert in conversation with Baroness Butler-Sloss.

Part of the Westminster Abbey Institute's Justice season, Spring 2019.

#justice #westminsterabbeyinstitute

Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2019

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 15:25:11 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2019 at Westminster Abbey by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster.

#ashwednesday #westminsterabbey

Westminster Lecture: Fair enough? Justice in the 21st Century

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 15:10:56 +0000

The Reverend Dr James Hawkey in conversation with the Rt Hon Jack Straw.

Part of the Westminster Abbey Institute's Justice season, Spring 2019.

#justice #westminsterabbeyinstitute

History Masterclass - Henry III and Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 15:23:08 +0000

Medieval historian Professor David Carpenter (King’s College London) gives a lecture and takes questions from students on Henry III to mark 750 years since the consecration of Westminster Abbey.

Recorded: 13th February 2019

#westminsterabbey #kinghenryIII #henryIII #davidcarpenter

Sermon given at Candlemas, 2019

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 10:35:00 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, 1st February 2019, by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall.

#candlemas #westminsterabbey

Address given by Lord Luce at the Lord Carrington thanksgiving service

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:43:30 +0000

Address given by The Right Honourable the Lord Luce at A Service of thanksgiving for The Right Honourable the Lord Carrington

Tribute to his father given by Lord Carrington

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:42:22 +0000

Tribute given by The Lord Carrington at A Service of thanksgiving for The Right Honourable the Lord Carrington

#lordcarrington #westminsterabbey

30th Annual Day of Prayer - Waiting on God: Part 3 - Silence with the beloved

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:17:21 +0000

Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, a Dominican friar and Roman Catholic priest, explores how prayer in its different forms shapes us in faith, hope and love. Part 3 - Silence with the beloved.

30th Annual Day of Prayer - Waiting on God: Part 2 - Hopeful prayer

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:16:02 +0000

Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, a Dominican friar and Roman Catholic priest, explores how prayer in its different forms shapes us in faith, hope and love. Part 2 - Hopeful prayer.

30th Annual Day of Prayer - Waiting on God: Part 1 - Faith in worship

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:15:07 +0000

Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, a Dominican friar and Roman Catholic priest, explores how prayer in its different forms shapes us in faith, hope and love. Part 1 - Faith in worship.

Sermon given at Evensong with the Installation of The Reverend Dr James Hawkey as Canon of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 11:11:30 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at Evensong with the Installation of The Reverend Dr James Hawkey as Canon of Westminster

#jameshawkey #westminsterabbey

Sermon given at A service of thanksgiving and commemoration to mark the 400th anniversary of Alleyn’s School

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 10:50:24 +0000

Sermon given by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at A service of thanksgiving and commemoration to mark the 400th anniversary of Alleyn’s School

#alleyns400 #westminsterabbey

Address given by Lord Williams of Oystermouth at A Service of Thanksgiving for Anthony Harvey

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 17 Jan 2019 10:11:12 +0000

The Address given by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable The Lord Williams of Oystermouth at A Service of Thanksgiving for The Reverend Dr Anthony E Harvey 1930-2018

#westminsterabbey #rowanwilliams

Sermon given at the Installation of Paul Baumann CBE as Receiver General

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 09:38:10 +0000

Sermon given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, at the Installation of Paul Baumann CBE as Receiver General at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 12th January 2019.

#westminsterabbey

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 10:04:31 +0000

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day 2018 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster at Westminster Abbey

#westminsterabbey #christmas

Sermon given at Midnight Mass at Christmas 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:54:56 +0000

Sermon given at Midnight Mass on Christmas 2018 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster at Westminster Abbey

#westminsterabbey #christmas

Address given by The Bishop of London at the Metropolitan Police Carols Service 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:47:11 +0000

Address given by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London, at the Metropolitan Police Carols Service 2018, held at Westminster Abbey on 19th December

#westminsterabbey #bishopoflondon #metropolitanpolice #christmas

Sermon at the The Whitehall Carol Service 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:28:10 +0000

Sermon given at the The Whitehall Carol Service 2018 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster on Tuesday, 18th December 2018. #westminsterabbey #whitehall #christmas

Have the machines taken over?

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 17:05:51 +0000

Stuart Russell, Professor of Computer Science at the University of California, Berkeley, who specialises in artificial intelligence, gives the last in a series of three Westminster Dialogues.

Chair and interlocutor: Richard Sargeant, Chief Commercial Officer, ASI Data Science

#westminsterabbey #stuartrussell #AI #artificialintelligence

Address given at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate The Year of Engineering 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 22 Nov 2018 15:04:43 +0000

Address given by Professor Dame Ann Dowling, President, Royal Academy of Engineering, at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate The Year of Engineering 2018

#YoE #YearofEngineering #WestminsterAbbey

Sermon given at Thanksgiving for the Canonisation of St Oscar Romero Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 10:26:55 +0000

Sermon given at a Thanksgiving for the Canonisation of St Oscar Romero by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall Dean of Westminster, 17th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #oscarromero

Address given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at A Service to mark the Centenary of the Armistice

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:28:52 +0000

Address given by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England, and Metropolitan at A Service to mark the Centenary of the Armistice, held at Westminster Abbey in 11th November 2018

#armistice100 #archbishopofcanterbury #WW1

Leslie Brent's Testimony at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:08:12 +0000

Testimony given by Leslie Brent, Holocaust survivor, at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, held at Westminster Abbey on 8th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #kristallnacht #kristallnacht80 #judaism #jewish #holocaust

Freddie Knoller's Testimony at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 12:01:03 +0000

Testimony given by Freddie Knoller, Holocaust survivor, at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, held at Westminster Abbey on 8th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #kristallnacht #kristallnacht80 #judaism #jewish #holocaust

Bea Green's Testimony at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:54:19 +0000

Testimony given by Bea Green, Holocaust survivor, at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, held at Westminster Abbey on 8th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #kristallnacht #kristallnacht80 #judaism #jewish #holocaust

Rabbi Baroness Neuberger's Reflection at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:47:17 +0000

Reflection given by Rabbi Baroness Neuberger DBE, West London Synagogue, at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, held at Westminster Abbey on 8th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #kristallnacht #kristallnacht80 #judaism #jewish #holocaust

Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg's Address at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:30:43 +0000

Address given by Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, New North London Synagogue and Rabbi to Masorti Judaism, at A Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope on the 80th Anniversary of Kristallnacht, held at Westminster Abbey on 8th November 2018

#westminsterabbey #kristallnacht #kristallnacht80 #judaism #jewish #holocaust

Humanity's response

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 15:42:48 +0000

Panel discussion as part of Westminster Abbey Institute's Embracing Global Challenges season.

Speakers: Professor Michelle Brown, Rory Stewart MP OBE, Matt Waldman.

Chair: Sir Stephen Lamport GCVO DL, Receiver General, Westminster Abbey.

Michelle Brown is Professor Emerita of Medieval Manuscript Studies at the School of Advanced Study, University of London.

Matt Waldman is an international mediator and founding director of the Center for Empathy in International Affairs.

Rory Stewart is Minister of State for Justice. He was formerly Minister of State for the FCO and DfID.

#westminsterabbeyinstitute

Has migration overwhelmed us?

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 14:46:34 +0000

Ann Singleton gives the second in a series of three Westminster Dialogues

Speaker: Ann Singleton, Senior Research Fellow in School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol

Chair and interlocutor: Mark Easton, Home Editor, BBC News

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute’s Embracing Global Challenges events season

Sermon given at a National Scout and Guide Service 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 11:43:39 +0000

Sermon given at a National Scout and Guide Service 2018 by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall

#westminsterabbey #scouts #girlguiding

Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on All Souls' Day 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 11:18:25 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Souls' Day 2018 by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall

#westminsterabbey #allsoulsday

Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 09:42:36 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2018 by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall.

#westminsterabbey #allsaintsday

Have we killed the planet?

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 11:05:42 +0000

Michael McCarthy gives the first in a series of three Westminster Dialogues, part of the Embracing Global Challenges season from the Westminster Abbey Institute.

Speaker: Michael McCarthy is a British writer with a special interest in nature and the natural world. He is the former environment correspondent of both The Times and The Independent.

Chair and interlocutor: Dr Claire Foster-Gilbert, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute

Recording date: 23rd October 2018

#westminsterabbey #westminsterabbeyinstitute #michaelmccarthy #environment #nature

One People Oration 2018: Embracing Global Challenges

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 09:31:44 +0000

The Rt Hon Baroness Scotland of Asthal QC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth gives the One People Oration 2018 on the theme of Embracing Global Challenges. Chair: The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster.

#baronessscotland #commonwealth #westminsterabbey #westminsterabbyinstitute #globalpolitics

Dean of Westminster's sermon at Dedication of Westminster Abbey Sung Eucharist

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 13:01:22 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at the Sung Eucharist on the Feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey, 14th October 2018 #westminsterabbey #edwardtide

Sermon given on The Translation of Edward the Confessor

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 12:34:05 +0000

Sermon given by The Right Reverend Jonathan Goodall Bishop of Ebbsfleet and Priest Vicar at the Festival Eucharist on The Translation of Edward the Confessor #edwardtide #westminsterabbey #stedwardtheconfessor

The Dean's Sermon at the Edwardtide Sung Eucharist

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 11:45:34 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at the Sung Eucharist on the Eve of the Translation of St Edward The Confessor, 12th October 2018 at Westminster Abbey #westminsterabbey #edwardtide #stedwardtheconfessor

Sermon given at the Service attended by the Judges, 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 13:20:31 +0000

Sermon given by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at the Service attended by the Judges, 2018. #legalyear #judgesservice #westminsterabbey

Address given at the Battle of Britain Sunday service 2018

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 10:31:30 +0000

The Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) John Ellis gives The Address at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication to mark the 78th anniversary of the Battle of Britain #battleofbritain #ww2 #royalairforce #westminsterabbey

Sir Trevor Nunn gives an address about Sir Peter Hall

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 14:20:06 +0000

Sir Trevor Nunn gives The Address at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the life and work of Sir Peter Hall, 11th September 2018, Westminster Abbey #westminsterabbey #sirpeterhall #theatre #sirtrevornunn

Sir David Hare gives a tribute to Sir Peter Hall

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 14:13:44 +0000

Sir David Hare, playwright, gives The Tribute at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the life and work of Sir Peter Hall, 11th September 2018, Westminster Abbey #westminsterabbey #sirpeterhall #theatre #sirdavidhare

Address given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at the RAF 100th service

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 11:36:23 +0000

Address given by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, at A Service to mark the Centenary of the Royal Air Force, held at Westminster Abbey on 10th July at 10:30am

#RAF100 #westminsterabbey #justinwelby #archbishopofcanterbury

Address given at A Service to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the NHS

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 12:59:04 +0000

Address given by Simon Stevens, Chief Executive, NHS England at A Service to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the National Health Service

#nhs70 #westminsterabbey #nhsengland

Address given by the Reverend Gary Bradley at the Civic Service 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Jul 2018 08:58:13 +0000

Address given by the Lord Mayor's Chaplain, the Reverend Gary Bradley, at the Civic Service held at Westminster Abbey on 1st July 2018

#westminsterabbey #westminstercitycouncil

Address given at Spirit of Windrush service by Rev Canon Joel Edwards

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 14:20:57 +0000

The Address given by the Reverend Canon Joel Edwards at Spirit of Windrush Contributions to Multicultural Britain A Service of Thanksgiving #windrush70 #windrush #windrushgeneration #windrushday #westminsterabbey

Lord Rees' tribute to Stephen Hawking

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:07:35 +0000

A Tribute given by the Astronomer Royal Professor the Lord Rees of Ludlow at A Service of Thanksgiving for Professor Stephen Hawking at Westminster Abbey on 15th June 2018 #westminsterabbey #stephenhawking

Tom Nabarro's tribute to Stephen Hawking

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:05:42 +0000

A Tribute given by Tom Nabarro at A Service of Thanksgiving for Professor Stephen Hawking at Westminster Abbey on 15th June 2018 #westminsterabbey #stephenhawking

Professor Kip Thorne's tribute to Stephen Hawking

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:04:35 +0000

A Tribute given by Nobel laureate Professor Kip Thorne at A Service of Thanksgiving for Professor Stephen Hawking at Westminster Abbey on 15th June 2018 #westminsterabbey #stephenhawking

Excellent Women - Jane Austen’s Afterlife: Art, Culture and Religion

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 12:03:36 +0000

The 19th century was a time when the novel came of age. Many of the era’s female novelists responded in powerful and sophisticated ways to the era’s preoccupation with issues of belief and religious practice.

In this lecture, the Reverend Canon Dr Alison Grant Milbank, Associate Professor of Literature and Theology, University of Nottingham, discusses the work of Jane Austen (1775 – 1817).

The lecture draws in part on the collection of essays Anglican Women Novelists: Charlotte Bronte to P.D. James, ed. Judith Maltby and Alison Shell (Bloomsbury, forthcoming 2019).

Held in partnership with Art + Christianity at Westminster Abbey on 5th June 2018

The 33rd Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture - Beating the Bounds: Parish Ministry and Spirituality Today

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 25 May 2018 10:29:50 +0000

The 33rd Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture - Beating the Bounds: Parish Ministry and Spirituality Today, delivered by The Reverend Richard Coles at Westminster Abbey on 24th May 2018.

In ‘Beating the Bounds: Parish Ministry and Spirituality Today’, The Reverend Richard Coles explores the shape of parish priesthood today from the perspective of an incumbent of a small semi-rural parish with a much larger emerging digital and broadcasting ministry; and asks how spirituality sustains that ministry, and is, in return, shaped by it.

Read a transcript of this talk on the Westminster Abbey website.

#westminsterabbey #lecture #religion #christianity #revrichardcoles

Sermon on the Day of Pentecost 2018

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 May 2018 09:40:51 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Day of Pentecost 2018 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, on 20th May 2018 in Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #sermon #pentecost #christianity

Sermon given at a Sung Eucharist on Ascension Day 2018

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 11 May 2018 08:46:15 +0000

Sermon given at a Sung Eucharist on Ascension Day 2018 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. #ascensionday #westminsterabbey

Address given at a Service to Commemorate the Life of Florence Nightingale

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 10 May 2018 09:44:58 +0000

Address given by Sister Frances Dominica ASSP DL at a Service to Commemorate the Life of Florence Nightingale at Westminster Abbey on 9th May 2018. #florencenightingale #westminsterabbey

ANZAC Day Address by the Dean of Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:15:02 +0000

The Address given by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, on ANZAC Day 2018. #ANZACDay #westminsterabbey

Sermon given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Evensong marking the 25th Meeting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Apr 2018 08:58:21 +0000

Sermon given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Evensong marking the 25th Meeting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government at Westminster Abbey at 3.00pm on Sunday 15th April 2018 #CHOGM2018 #westminsterabbey

Address given on the 50th anniversary of the death of Martin Luther King Jr

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 15:32:40 +0000

Address given by The Right Reverend Dr Karowei Dorgu, Bishop of Woolwich, at Rediscovering Justice: A Service of Hope on the 50th anniversary of the death of the Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Westminster Abbey, 4th April 2018. #martinlutherkingjr #westminsterabbey #mlk50

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day 2018

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 15:06:04 +0000

Sermon given at Westminster Abbey on Easter Day by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. #easter #easterday #westminsterabbey

Truth Told

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 11:16:51 +0000

However difficult, truth should be the lodestar by which we choose our words and fashion our political and journalistic language, including the use of rhetoric. We all share responsibility for this. If politicians and journalists lie, it is because we want them to.

Speaker: Claire Foster-Gilbert ; Chair: Lord Judge, former Lord Chief Justice

Recorded in the Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey, on Tuesday 20th March, 6.30pm .

#westminsterabbey

Truth Sustained

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:11:36 +0000

Speaker: Sir Stephen Lamport ; Chair: Lord Saatchi

The importance of truth cannot be underestimated. It is at the heart of those things which sustain a civilised society: trustworthiness, dependability, wise decisionmaking and solid relationships.

This lecture was part of the Westminster Abbey Institute's Truth season, recorded Tuesday 13th March, 6.30pm in the Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey

Truth Pursued

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 11:19:19 +0000

The truth of a situation is often genuinely hard to pin down. But, argues the Reverend Professor Vernon White, that provides no cover or excuse for giving up the pursuit of truth, which remains vital, and believing that finding it is possible.

Chair: Mark Easton, BBC Home Editor

Recorded in The Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey, 6th March 2018

Part of the Truth season, from the Westminster Abbey Institute

True Enough? Lies, Diplomacy and Politics

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 02 Mar 2018 16:18:07 +0000

Speakers: The Reverend Professor Michael Banner; John Raine; Rt Hon Jack Straw ; Chair: The Reverend Jane Sinclair, Canon of Westminster and Rector of St Margaret’s Church

Is the use of 'diplomatic truth' by officials both with their own governments and foreign governments an outmoded and possibly damaging convention? Does a tweet do more good than a 'demarche'? If in this complex and disordered environment, it all goes horribly wrong, who is to blame? Is it those who assessed, took or managed the risk? If the world is getting more risky should be take more or fewer initiatives overseas?

The Charles Gore Lecture 2018 - Truth and Beauty

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 28 Feb 2018 13:52:17 +0000

Speaker: Professor Janet Soskice ; Chair: The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

In classical Christian teaching God is not only beautiful but Beauty itself, not only truthful but Truth itself, not only good but Goodness itself. What can this mean in a consumerist world where ‘truth’ is contested, ‘goodness’ deemed prissy, and ‘beauty’ discussed mainly in terms of revolutionary new beauty products? Do we, in the age of Instagram, hear the adage ‘beauty is only skin deep’ not as a warning but as a stipulation - beauty is only appearance and appearance is all there is? If so, what can any of this have to do with truth’ or for that matter with God, and how do we avoid swindling ourselves out of that conviction that we are made to seek the truth, to behold beauty and to become beautiful - made to be, not only loved, but lovely?

#westminsterabbey #janetsoskice

The Dean of Westminster's sermon on Ash Wednesday 2018

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 10:48:01 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at a Sung Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes on 14th February 2018 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabby #ashwednesday

Sermon given on Candlemas 2018

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 11:07:16 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at a Sung Eucharist on The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, 2nd February 2018 #candlemas #westminsterabbey

Nick Clegg - The Coarsening of Political Language

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 10:57:18 +0000

The Coarsening of Political Language Speaker: Rt Hon Nick Clegg Interlocutor and Chair: Mark Easton

Monday 13th November at 6.30pm in The Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey

This event was part of the Westminster Abbey Institute's Democracy season.

The Rt Hon Nick Clegg was Leader of the Liberal Democrats from 2007-2015, and Deputy Prime Minister in the coalition government from 2010-2015.

Mark Easton is the BBC’s Home Editor. His first book, Britain etc., was published in 2012.

#westminsterabbey #westminsterabbeyinstitute #nickclegg #markeaston

The One People Oration 2017 - John Major: The Responsibilities of Democracy

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 09:51:04 +0000

The One People Oration 2017

Sir John Major: The Responsibilities of Democracy

Part of Westminster Abbey Institute's Democracy season

Recorded Monday 6th November at 6.30pm in Westminster Abbey

Chaired by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

#johnmajor #westminsterabbey #democracy

Sermon given at Evensong on All Souls' Day 2017

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 09:41:44 +0000

Sermon given at Evensong on All Souls' Day 2017 by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall #allsoulsday #westminsterabbey

Archbishop of Canterbury's sermon at Reformation 500th anniversary service

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 15:03:25 +0000

Sermon hive by the Archbishop of Canterbury at A Service to Mark the 500th Anniversary of the 95 Theses and the Start of the Reformation, held at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Tuesday 31st October 2017

Protest and Liberty: How the Reformation Shaped Modern Democracy

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 15:00:07 +0000

Professor Alec Ryrie, a historian of Protestant Christianity and Professor at Durham University, on the Protestant Reformation and democracy. #westminsterabbey #reformation500

Address given by the Bishop of Crediton at A Service for Queen Anne's School Caversham

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 16:22:32 +0000

Address given by the Right Reverend Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of Crediton, at A Service for Queen Anne's School Caversham, held at Westminster Abbey on Friday 20th October 2017 at 2.30pm

Address given by the Right Rev. and Right Hon. Richard Chartres at the Lady Margaret School Centenary service

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 14:49:09 +0000

Address was given by the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Richard Chartres KCVO ChStJ FSA, Dean of Her Majesty's Chapels Royal, at a Service to Celebrate the Centenary of Lady Margaret School, held at Westminster Abbey on Tuesday 17th October 2017

Sermon given at Evensong with the London Mayors 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 12:08:48 +0000

Sermon given by the Right Reverend Tim Thornton, Bishop at Lambeth, at Evensong celebrating the Feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey in the presence of The Lord Mayor of Westminster and the Mayors of the London Boroughs, 15th October 2017 #westminsterabbey #lordmayors

Dedication Festival Sermon 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 12:06:08 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Dedication Festival 2017 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 15th October 2017 #westminsterabbey #edwardtide

Edwardtide Festival Eucharist Sermon 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 11:34:33 +0000

Sermon given at the Festival Eucharist at Edwardtide by The Right Reverend Dr John Inge, Bishop of Worcester, 14th October 2017 #westminsterabbey #edwardtide

Sermon given at Edwardtide Sung Eucharist 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 11:07:54 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Translation of St Edward the Confessor by the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 13th October 2017 #westminsterabbey #edwardtide

Excellent Women – PD James: Miserable Offenders

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 03 Oct 2017 09:35:47 +0000

Professor Alison Shell, University College London, discusses the work of PD James (1920-2014) in the last of a series of lectures on significant British women novelists of faith. #westminsterabbey #pdjames

Sermon given at Judges Services 2017 by The Right Reverend Michael Doe

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 13:50:16 +0000

Sermon given at Judges Services 2017 by The Right Reverend Michael Doe, Preacher of Gray's Inn #westminsterabbey #judgesservice

Sermon given on Michaelmas 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 13:12:34 +0000

Sermon given on Michaelmas by The Reverend Professor Vernon White, Sub-Dean and Canon Theologian, Westminster Abbey #westminsterabbey #michaelmas

Excellent Women – Barbara Pym: Anglican Anthropologies

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:01:55 +0000

Dr Jane Williams, St Mellitus College, discusses the work of Barbara Pym (1913-1980) in the third of a series of four lectures on significant British women novelists of faith. #barbarapym #westminsterabbey

Sermon given at Blessed Oscar Romero Evensong

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 09:20:26 +0000

The Sermon given by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable The Lord Williams of Oystermouth at Evensong commemorating the centenary of the birth of Blessed Oscar Romero. #romero100 #oscarromero #rowanwilliams #westminsterabbey

Excellent Women – Dorothy L Sayers: Christ and the Detective

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 09:34:54 +0000

The Reverend Canon Dr Jessica Martin, Ely Cathedral, discusses the work of novelist Dorothy L Sayers (1893-1957).

Address given at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication to mark the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Britain

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 10:40:45 +0000

Address given by the Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) Jonathan Chaffey QHC RAF, Chaplain-in-Chief of the Royal Air Force at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication to mark the 77th anniversary of the Battle of Britain held at Westminster Abbey on Sunday 17th September 2017

Sermon given on the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 15:07:46 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster at the Sung Eucharist on the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary #westminsterabbey #virginmary #christianity #assumption

Address given by the Lord Mayor's Chaplain, The Reverend Steve Mason, at Matins attended in Civic State by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, 2nd July 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 09:19:54 +0000

Address given by the Lord Mayor's Chaplain, The Reverend Steve Mason, at Matins attended in Civic State by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, 2nd July 2017 #westminsterabbey #westminstercitycouncil #lordmayorofwestminster

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day 2017

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 30 Jun 2017 10:35:46 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day 2017 by the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. #westminsterabby #speter #sermon #christianity #faith #saintpeter #stpetersday

Tribute given by Rob Brydon at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 14:41:11 +0000

Tribute given by Rob Brydon at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE #westminsterabbey #ronniecorbett #robbrydon #comedy

Address given by James Moir at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 14:39:31 +0000

Address given by James Moir at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE #westminsterabbey #ronniecorbett #jamesmoir #comedy

Tribute given by Jimmy Tarbuck at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 14:37:20 +0000

Tribute given by Jimmy Tarbuck at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Ronnie Corbett CBE #westminsterabbey #ronniecorbett #jimmytarbuck

Sermon given by the Dean of Westminster on the Day of Pentecost 2017

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 10:28:01 +0000

Sermon given by The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, at the Sung Eucharist on the Day of Pentecost 2017. #westminsterabbey #pentecost #christianity #christian

Sermon given by the Dean of Westminster on Ascension Day 2017

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 26 May 2017 10:45:22 +0000

Sermon given on Ascension Day 2017 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster #ascensionday #jesuschrist #christianity #westminsterabbey #sermon

Address given by Alexander Downer at a Service of Thanksgiving to Celebrate the Centenary of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 23 May 2017 15:46:29 +0000

The Address given by His Excellency The Honourable Alexander Downer AC, Australian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, at a Service of Thanksgiving to Celebrate the Centenary of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. #CWGC100

32nd Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture: Faith and Imagination

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 12 May 2017 10:17:35 +0000

Author and critic Salley Vickers gives the annual Eric Symes Abbott memorial lecture at Westminster Abbey.

In 'Faith and Imagination – How the Arts speak to the reality of the Unseen’, she addresses the crucial role of the arts in giving shape and form to abiding intangible realities, suggesting the vital importance of nurturing the imagination through the arts in an increasingly secular society.

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

#westminsterabbey #sallyvickers #faith #arts #secular #society #culture

Sermon given by the Dean of Westminster on Easter Day 2017

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 09:48:27 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day 2017 by tion
The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. #Easter #Christianity #WestminsterAbbey #Christ

The Address given by the Dean of Westminster at A Service of Hope following the terror attack in Westminster

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 14:11:46 +0000

The Address given by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall at A Service of Hope following the terror attack in Westminster. The service was held at Westminster Abbey on 5th April 2017. #westminsterabbey #serviceofhope #westminsterattack

Serving the Public: Mission Impossible?

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 27 Mar 2017 09:41:48 +0000

Speaker: The Reverend Jane Sinclair, Rector, St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey

Chair: Rt Hon Jack Straw

Tuesday 21st March 2017, 6.30 pm, The Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey

Part of Westminster Lectures: Integrity and Public Service, organised by the Westminster Abbey Institute

#westminsterabbey #publicservice

Integrity and the Modern Intellectual Tradition

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 08 Mar 2017 10:59:51 +0000

The Annual Charles Gore Lecture: Integrity and the Modern Intellectual Tradition. Speaker: Professor Marilynne Robinson; Chair: The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. #WestminsterAbbey #WestminsterAbbeyInstitute #CharlesGoreLecture #MarilynneRobinson

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2017

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:34:21 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, gives the sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2017 at Westminster Abbey: What is Lent really for? What should we make of it? #westminsterabbey #ashwednesday #lent #christianity #sermon

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for Epiphany 2017

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 11:37:10 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for Epiphany 2017 by The Reverend Jane Sinclair, Canon in Residence. #westminsterabbey #epiphany

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 11:09:39 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day 2016 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster #Christmas

Address given by The Earl of Wessex at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 25 Nov 2016 11:44:57 +0000

Address given by The Earl of Wessex at A Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, 24th November 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #dofe #dukeofedinburghsaward #princeedward #earlofwessex

Address given by Sir James Galway OBE at The St Cecilia Service: A Celebration of Music

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 25 Nov 2016 10:27:00 +0000

Address given by Sir James Galway OBE at The St Cecilia Service: A Celebration of Music, 23rd November 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #helpmusiciansuk #jamesgallway

One People Oration 2016 - Secret Service? National Security in an Age of Open Information

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 11:51:49 +0000

Speaker: Lord Evans of Weardale, former Head of MI5; Chair: The Very Reverend Dr John Hall

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

#westminsterabbey #onepeopleoration #secretservice #MI5 #nationalsecurity

How Impartial? - A dialogue organised by the Westminster Abbey Institute

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:18:14 +0000

How Impartial?, a Westminster Dialogue organised by the Westminster Abbey Institute. Speakers: Professor Jean Seaton, Professor of Media History and the Official Historian of the BBC; Gary Gibbon, Political Editor, Channel 4 News. Interlocutor and Chair: Lord Neuberger, President of the Supreme Court. Recorded on Tuesday 1st November 2016, 6.30pm in The Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey. #WestminsterAbbey #WestminsterAbbeyInstitute #media #journalism #politics #press #news

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 16:32:35 +0000

The Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2016 by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 1st November 2016 #westminsterabbey #allsaintsday #christianity #faith

Press Freedom; Press Responsibility - A dialogue organised by the Westminster Abbey Institute

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 11:43:03 +0000

Press Freedom; Press Responsibility, a Westminster Dialogue organised by the Westminster Abbey Institute. Speakers: Dame Ann Leslie, Columnist for the Daily Mail; Nick Robinson, Today presenter, BBC. Interlocutor and Chair: Baroness D'Souza. Recorded on Monday 17th October 2016, 6.30pm in The Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey. #WestminsterAbbey #WestminsterAbbeyInstitute #media #journalism #politics #press #news

Sermon given at the Evensong with the London Mayors, 16th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 16:00:13 +0000

The Sermon given at the Evensong with the London Mayors by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 16th October 2016. #westminsterabbey #londonmayors

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Dedication of Westminster Abbey, 16th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 15:33:06 +0000

The Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Dedication of Westminster Abbey by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 16th October 2016 #westminsterabbey

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 14:32:35 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Translation of St Edward the Confessor by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 13th October 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #edwardtheconfessor #stedward #churchofengland #christian #religion

Address given by the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner at the Combat Modern Slavery service, 12th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 10:25:01 +0000

The Address given by Kevin Hyland OBE, Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, at the Service to Commemorate the Work of William Wilberforce and Mark the United Kingdom's Commitment to Combat Modern Slavery, 12th October 2016. #WestminsterAbbey #ModernSlavery #EndSlavery2016

Address given by Prime Minister Theresa May at the Combat Modern Slavery service, 12th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 10:22:13 +0000

The Address given by The Right Honourable Theresa May MP, Prime Minister, at the Service to Commemorate the Work of William Wilberforce and Mark the United Kingdom's Commitment to Combat Modern Slavery, 12th October 2016. #WestminsterAbbey #ModernSlavery #EndSlavery2016 #TheresaMay

Address given by the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Combat Modern Slavery service, 12th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 10:19:36 +0000

The Address given by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England and Metropolitan at the Service to Commemorate the Work of William Wilberforce and Mark the United Kingdom's Commitment to Combat Modern Slavery, 12th October 2016. #WestminsterAbbey #ModernSlavery #EndSlavery2016 #ArchbishopOfCanterbury

Address given by Cardinal Nichols at the Combat Modern Slavery service, 12th October 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 10:17:03 +0000

The Address given by His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, at the Service to Commemorate the Work of William Wilberforce and Mark the United Kingdom's Commitment to Combat Modern Slavery, 12th October 2016. #WestminsterAbbey #ModernSlavery #EndSlavery2016 #CardinalNichols

Address given by Lord Hall at the Terry Wogan Thanksgiving Service, 27th September 2016

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 11:38:06 +0000

Lord Hall of Birkenhead CBE, Director-General of the BBC, gives The Address at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Sir Terry Wogan KBE DL, 27th September 2016 #WestminsterAbbey #TerryWogan #TonyHall #LordHall #BBC #Radio2 #BBCRadio2 #radio

Tribute given by Chris Evans at the Terry Wogan Thanksgiving Service, 27th September 2016

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 28 Sep 2016 11:35:17 +0000

Chris Evans, radio presenter, gives a Tribute at A Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Sir Terry Wogan KBE DL, 27th September 2016 #WestminsterAbbey #TerryWogan #ChrisEvans #BBC #Radio2 #BBCRadio2 #radio

Address given at the annual Battle of Britain Sunday service, 18th September 2016

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 16:03:37 +0000

The Chaplain-in-Chief of the Royal Air Force, The Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) Jonathan Chaffey QHC RAF, gives an address at the annual Battle of Britain Sunday service, 18th September 2016 #westminsterabbey #battleofbritain #raf #royalairforce #WW2

Address given at the annual Civic Service at Westminster Abbey, Sunday 3rd July 2016

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 11:51:12 +0000

The Lord Mayor's Chaplain, The Reverend Michael Macey, gives an address at the annual Civic Service at Westminster Abbey, 3rd July 2016. #westminsterabbey #cityofwestminster

Address given at A Service and Vigil on the Eve of the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme, 30th June 2016

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 09:37:22 +0000

The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr Richard Chartres KCVO, Bishop of London, gives an address at A Service and Vigil on the Eve of the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme, 30th June 2016. #westminsterabbey #somme100 #somme #ww1

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 11:40:37 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 29th June 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #stpetersday #stpeter #churchofengland #christian #religion

Addresses given at a Service of Prayer and Remembrance to Commemorate Jo Cox MP - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 11:01:56 +0000

Addresses given by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England, and Metropolitan, and the Reverend Prebendary Rose Hudson-Wilkin at the Service of Prayer and Remembrance to Commemorate Jo Cox MP, 20th June 2016 at St Margaret's Church, Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #stmargaretschurch #jocoxmp

Sermon given at the Evensong marking 50th anniversary of the Anglican Centre in Rome - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:23:24 +0000

Sermon given by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England, and Metropolitan, at the Evensong marking the 50th anniversary of the Anglican Centre in Rome, 14th June 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #anglicancentre #churchofengland #christian #religion

31st Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture: The Sacred, the Profane and the Desecrated

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 11:01:42 +0000

Writer and philosopher Professor Roger Scruton gives the annual Eric Symes Abbott memorial lecture at Westminster Abbey. Roger is a philosopher, public commentator and author of over 40 books. He has specialised in aesthetics with particular attention to music and architecture. He engages in contemporary political and cultural debates from the standpoint of a conservative thinker and is well known as a powerful polemicist. He is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and a fellow of the British Academy. The Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lectures are given in memory of Dean Eric Symes Abbott (1906-1983), who was at various times Dean of King's College London, Warden of Lincoln Theological College, Warden of Keble College Oxford, and Dean of Westminster.

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

#westminsterabbey #rogerscruton

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Corpus Christi - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:51:03 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Corpus Christi by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, 26th May 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #corpuschristi #churchofengland #christian #religion

Address given at the Centenary Service of Thanksgiving for the Courage and Endurance of Sir Ernest Shackleton CVO and his Men, 20th May 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 26 May 2016 11:27:27 +0000

The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr Richard Chartres KCVO, Bishop of London, gives an address at the Centenary Service of Thanksgiving for the Courage and Endurance of Sir Ernest Shackleton CVO and his Men, 20th May 2016. #westminsterabbey #shackleton

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Day of Pentecost - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 26 May 2016 11:17:56 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, on the Day of Pentecost, 15th May 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #pentecost #churchofengland #christian #religion

500 Years of Wonder - Lecture given by Dr Andrew Foster, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Kent

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 May 2016 10:33:50 +0000

James I, the Abbey and the 'beauty of holiness', a lecture given by Dr Andrew Foster, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Kent. #westminsterabbey #ladychapel #architecture

500 Years of Wonder - Lecture given by Dr Richard Rex, Reader in Reformation History, Queens' College, Cambridge

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 May 2016 10:23:02 +0000

Lady Margaret Beaufort: the King's Mother and the King's Chapel, a lecture given by Dr Richard Rex, Reader in Reformation History, Queens' College, Cambridge. #westminsterabbey #ladychapel #architecture

500 Years of Wonder - Lecture given by Christopher Wilson, Emeritus Professor of Architectural History, UCL

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 May 2016 10:09:37 +0000

'Of suche as apperteigne to the gifte of a Prince': the architecture and fittings of Henry VII's Lady Chapel at Westminster, a lecture given by Christopher Wilson, Emeritus Professor of Architectural History, UCL. #westminsterabbey #ladychapel #architecture

Address given at the ANZAC Day Service - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 24 May 2016 11:15:17 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, gives an address at the ANZAC Day Service, 2016. #westminsterabbey #anzacday

Address given at the Solemn Commemoration for the Victims in Tunisia - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 24 May 2016 09:57:39 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, gives an address at the Solemn Commemoration for the Victims in Tunisia, 2016. #westminsterabbey #tunisiaattacks

Sermon given at Evensong on Easter Day - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 24 May 2016 09:23:54 +0000

Sermon given by The Reverend David Stanton, Canon in Residence, at Evensong on Easter Day 2016. #westminsterabbey #easter #churchofengland #christian #religion

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 23 May 2016 15:28:02 +0000

Sermon given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day 2016. #westminsterabbey #easter #churchofengland #christian #religion

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday - 2016

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 23 May 2016 14:39:00 +0000

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, on Ash Wednesday, 10th February 2016 at Westminster Abbey. #westminsterabbey #ashwednesday #churchofengland #christian #religion

Sermon preached at the Synod Service 2015

Westminster Abbey — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 13:10:50 +0000

Father Raniero Cantalamessa O.F.M. CAP, Preacher to the Papal Household gives the Sermon at a Service of Holy Communion at the Inauguration of the Tenth General Synod of the Church of England at Westminster Abbey on Tuesday 24th November 2015

In Power? The Power of MPs

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:56:40 +0000

Speaker: Baroness Jowell Interlocutor and Chair: Baroness D'Souza, Lord Speaker

It is neither superheroes nor automata but human beings who pace the corridors of Westminster and Whitehall, often feeling anything but powerful. Bound by party politics, the executive, the minister, public opinion, the media: sometimes these constraints are real, sometimes not. Who, or what, is running the country? How is power balanced around Parliament Square between the Legislature, the Judiciary and the Executive? What of the soft power of religion and the monarchy? In its autumn programme

In Power? Westminster Abbey Institute will offer a series of lectures, dialogues and seminars to explore these pressing questions.

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Souls' Day 2015

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 11:47:52 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, delivers the sermon on All Souls Day, 2nd November 2015

Sermon given at a special service to commemorate the 600th anniversary of The Battle of Agincourt

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 13:53:57 +0000

The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr Richard Chartres KCVO, Bishop of London, gives the sermon at a special service to commemorate the 600th anniversary of The Battle of Agincourt

Sermon given at a special service celebrating the lives of Armenian martyrs

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 20:31:36 +0000

The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dr Richard Chartres KCVO gives the address at a special service celebrating the lives of Armenian martyrs

In Power? The Power of Whitehall

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 15:01:35 +0000

Speaker: Sir David Normington
Interlocutor and Chair: Professor Lord Hennessy

It is neither superheroes nor automata but human beings who pace the corridors of Westminster and Whitehall, often feeling anything but powerful. Bound by party politics, the executive, the minister, public opinion, the media: sometimes these constraints are real, sometimes not. Who, or what, is running the country? How is power balanced around Parliament Square between the Legislature, the Judiciary and the Executive? What of the soft power of religion and the monarchy? In its autumn programme "In Power?" Westminster Abbey Institute offers a series of lectures, dialogues and seminars to explore these pressing questions.

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Dedication of Westminster Abbey - 2015

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 16:27:11 +0000

Sermon given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster at the Sung Eucharist for the Dedication of Westminster Abbey on Sunday 18th October 2015

Sermon Given on the Festival Eucharist during the National Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 16:17:41 +0000

Sermon given by The Right Reverend Stephen Platten, Honorary Assistant Bishop, Diocese of London, at the Festival Eucharist on the National Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor - 17th October 2015

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist for the Translation of St Edward the Confessor - 2015

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 16:12:02 +0000

Sermon given by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster at Sung Eucharist on 13th October 2015, The Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 1163, 1269

In Power? The Power of the Judiciary

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 13:40:55 +0000

It is neither superheroes nor automata but human beings who pace the corridors of Westminster and Whitehall, often feeling anything but powerful.

Bound by party politics, the executive, the minister, public opinion, the media: sometimes these constraints are real, sometimes not. Who, or what, is running the country? How is power balanced around Parliament Square between the Legislature, the Judiciary and the Executive? What of the soft power of religion and the monarchy? In its autumn programme In Power? Westminster Abbey Institute will offer a series of lectures, dialogues and seminars to explore these pressing questions.

Address given at a Service of Thanksgiving to mark the Centenary of Blind Veterans UK

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 14:03:12 +0000

The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor The Lady Flight, attended a Service of Thanksgiving to mark the Centenary of Blind Veterans UK at Westminster Abbey at Noon on Tuesday 6th October 2015. The address was given by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall

Address given at Judges Service 2015

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 13:34:47 +0000

The annual Judges Service took place at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 1st October 2015.

The Reverend Robin Griffith-Jones, Master of the Temple, gave the address.

Find out more about the Judges Service 2015:

Sermon given at a service of thanksgiving and rededication to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 20 Sep 2015 13:39:40 +0000

The Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) Jonathan Chaffey QHC RAF Chaplain-in-Chief, Royal Air Force, gives the sermon at a service of thanksgiving and rededication to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 30 Jun 2015 14:52:20 +0000

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

Sermon from the Day of Pentecost - 24th May 2015

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 26 May 2015 11:36:16 +0000

"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you." @deanwestminster The Very Reverend Dr John Hall preaches at Sung Eucharist on The Day of Pentecost, Sunday 2015.

30th Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture- Blessed are the Hypocrites?

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 22 May 2015 12:43:28 +0000

Confession is big business. As family relationships are laid bare for daytime TV audiences and mock courtrooms try real cases for entertainment, calls for repentance echo everywhere. Those who hold power; religious, political, legal and cultural; are held to account by a free media and unregulated internet. In these contexts, what can the Church say about the Christian requirement for mercy as a public value? Is the quest for purity as damaging as it is noble? Do our public conversations confuse sincerity with truth? And is there any such thing as innocence?

Speaker: The Reverend Lucy Winkett, Rector, St James's Piccadilly

Lucy Winkett was ordained in 1995, having worked previously as a professional soprano. With degrees from Cambridge and Birmingham Universities, she served her title in Manor Park, Newham before moving to St Paul's Cathedral where she later became Canon Precentor, the first woman priest to be appointed there. She became Rector of St James's Church Piccadilly in 2010. She is a long-standing contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day, was a founding advisor for the public theology think tank "Theos" and is one of the co-founders of "Leading Women", a national development programme for women clergy.

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

Sermon from Ordination and Consecration of Bishops at Westminster Abbey - 14th May 2015

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 May 2015 11:13:47 +0000

The sermon, preached by The Right Reverend and Right Honourable The Lord Williams of Oystermouth, formerly Archbishop of Canterbury, at The Ordination and Consecration of Bishops at Westminster Abbey - 14th May 2015

Sermon - Sung Eucharist, Ascension Day

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 15 May 2015 09:26:26 +0000

The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr John Hall delivers the sermon at Sung Eucharist on Ascension Day, 14th May 2015

50th Annual Service to Commemorate the Life of Florence Nightingale - Address

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 12 May 2015 11:33:33 +0000

The Address given by Professor Michael Wheeler, Visiting Professor at the Universities of Lancaster, Roehampton and Southampton at the 50th Annual Service to Commemorate the Life of Florence Nightingale.

Address given at the Service of Thanksgiving Marking the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 10 May 2015 11:55:03 +0000

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby delivers the Address at the Service of Thanksgiving Marking the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, 2015. #VEDay70

The Address - A Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark the Centenary of the ANZAC Landings

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 09:31:29 +0000

The Dean of Westminster Abbey, The Very Reverend John Hall, delivers the address at A Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark the Centenary of the ANZAC Landings on Saturday 25th April 2015

Stand and Be Counted - Purposefulness

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 08:57:38 +0000

Speaker: Canon Professor Vernon White Stand and Be Counted offers lectures and symposia for all those concerned with the health of Politics. This lecture is one of a series of 3 lectures, focussing on "Idealism and Compromise in Public Service: When the eye sees further than the hand can reach."

Stand and Be Counted - Morality

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 10:41:48 +0000

Speaker: Canon Professor Vernon White

Stand and Be Counted offers lectures and symposia for all those concerned with the health of Politics. This lecture is one of a series of 3 lectures, focussing on "Idealism and Compromise in Public Service: When the eye sees further than the hand can reach."

Stand and be Counted - Idealism

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 18 Mar 2015 15:57:05 +0000

Speaker: Canon Professor Vernon White

Stand and Be Counted - Doing Policing: Being Police

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 13:58:13 +0000

Recorded on Monday 23rd February at The Lady Chapel, Westminster

Speakers: Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, Assistant Comissioner Helen King and selected police officers

The forthcoming General Election falls on the 750th anniversary of the First Parliament which convened in the Chapter House of Westminster Abbey, and the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta.

Has our politics lived up to the expectations of its historic foundations? Elected and appointed public servants now face an allegedly cynical public.

How do you win an election without selling your soul? What if you want to be idealistic and the world won’t let you?

Stand and Be Counted offers lectures and symposia for all those concerned with the health of politics.

Westminster Dialogue: Good War/Bad War? Moral Reflections on 1914 and Beyond

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 11:13:38 +0000

Speakers: Professor David Reynolds and Professor Sir Hew Strachan Chair: Mark Easton, BBC Home Editor

Those gathered around the decision-making table in 1914 were only too aware of the moral issues at stake. What can those facing potential conflict today learn from the moral complexities then?

One People Oration 2014 given by the Rt Hon William Hague MP

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 11:18:24 +0000

In a wide-ranging lecture entitled Humanising Hell – our Restless Conscience and the Search for Peace, Mr Hague reflected on the legacy of conflict from World War One to today, and called on Britain to maintain the ideas and ambition needed to prevent future conflict and to improve the condition of humanity.

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey 2014

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 09:22:34 +0000

The Feast of Dedication of a church is a celebration of the church building as a house of God and place of prayer.

The present Abbey Church was dedicated in 13th October 1269. Since 13th October is the principal feast of St Edward, here at the Abbey we keep the Feast of Dedication on the following Sunday.

Sermon given at a Service to Dedicate a Memorial to Admiral Arthur Phillip

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 13:06:48 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

#AdmiralPhillip

Address given by Sir Nicholas Kenyon CBE at a Service to Celebrate the Life and Work of Sir John Tavener

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 13:33:11 +0000

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales attended a Service of Thanksgiving for the Life and Work of Sir John Tavener at Westminster Abbey on Wednesday 11th June at 12 noon.

29th Eric Symes Abbott Memorial Lecture: Beyond Justice

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 19 May 2014 10:26:29 +0000

Speaker: The Reverend Dr Sam Wells

‘What does one do in the face of the daily diminishment of human beings?’ The Revd Dr Sam Wells explores and challenges different understandings of justice and asks whether the church can model a way of life beyond justice.

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

Address given at a Service to Commemorate the Life of Florence Nightingale

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 08 May 2014 09:28:30 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

We must admire the strength of character and determination of Edith Cavell and her commitment as a nurse to care for all without discrimination. She stands as an icon, an example and an inspiration, alongside Florence Nightingale whom we honour today and for whom we thank God, of nursing at its best, even in the most difficult circumstances. Simply expressed, the praise is of the highest. She was a good nurse.

Sermon given at a Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark ANZAC day 2014

Westminster Abbey — Fri, 25 Apr 2014 14:30:13 +0000

His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester attended the annual Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark ANZAC Day at Westminster Abbey on Friday 25th April 2014.

Westminster Abbey Institute lecture: Strengthening moral courage in public life: Moral Acting

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 09 Apr 2014 11:21:12 +0000

Speaker: Claire Foster-Gilbert, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute

Chair: The Right Honourable The Baroness D’Souza CMG, Lord Speaker

Even if we know what is the right thing to do, and we want very much to do it, what then gives us the courage to act? What reminds those in public office of their vocation to serve? Powerful stories of journeys that resonate with the stories in our own lives can waken the giant within and remind us that the best, most interesting lives are lived for others. In this lecture, Claire Foster-Gilbert described the ‘hero’s journey’ as a map for lives of public service.

Westminster Abbey Institute lecture: Strengthening moral courage in public life: Moral Feeling

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 09:35:50 +0000

Speaker: Claire Foster-Gilbert, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute.

Why should we be moral? What motivates public servants to keep serving the common good? Claire Foster-Gilbert argues that our moral sensibilities arise from the way we perceive the world around us. She suggests perceptions that can refresh our vison and evoke a will to be good, describing the spheres of interdependent life in which all participate; the sacredness of creation; the priesthood of all humanity; and the Sabbath principle.

Westminster Abbey Institute lecture: Strengthening moral courage in public life: Moral Thinking

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 25 Mar 2014 11:10:30 +0000

Speaker: Claire Foster-Gilbert, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute.

A robust moral decision is one that clearly identifies the moral issues at stake and takes them into account. For those in public office, being able to explain how they came to make such decisions is also critical. In this lecture, Claire Foster-Gilbert offers a framework for making comprehensive and comprehendable moral decisions by describing goal-based, duty-based and right-based thinking processes.

Poems read during a Service to Celebrate the Life and Work of Sir #DavidFrost

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 15:00:19 +0000

Audio includes:

Wilfred Frost reads 'Remember Me' by David Harkins

George Frost reads his Poem following the dedication of the Memorial Stone.

Joanna Lumley reads 'A Sonnet of Sorts for a Star' by Joanna Lumley/Richard Stilgoe

Greg Dyke's Address given at a Service to Celebrate the Life and Work of Sir #DavidFrost

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 14:50:45 +0000

#Commonwealth Day Observance 2014 Highlights

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 18:37:08 +0000

Audio includes:

Her Majesty The Queen's Commonwealth Day Message A performance by the Pipes and Drums of Gordon's School A reflection by the Right Honourable The Lord Coe Gaelic Anthem sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey A reflection by The Right Honourable The Baroness Grey-Thompson Unbelievable Dream by Laura Mvula

Malala Yousafzai's Address given at an Observance for #Commonwealth Day 2014

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 18:07:28 +0000

Gore Lecture 2014: The Faithfulness of God

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 16:05:01 +0000

Speaker: The Right Reverend Professor NT Wright, University of St Andrews Chair: Canon Professor Vernon White

The faithfulness of God is a controlling theme of Pauls’ writings. Divine faithfulness, both to covenant and to creation, raises questions of considerable contemporary urgency: the new challenge to unity, a vision of ecological stewardship, the quest for holiness, and the renewal of mission, particularly in relation to social and political moods and structures. In these areas Paul cuts across the lines of fashionable thinking now, as he did in his own day: this lecture will explore the key current debates, and expound a fresh way of reading Paul (as in the author’s recent book).

Read a transcript of this lecture on Westminster Abbey's website.

The Dean of Westminster's Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2014

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:48:26 +0000

We commit ourselves to living this Lent self-sacrificially, giving up ourselves to the service and love of God and spreading the gift and spirit of reconciliation.

Desmond Tutu's Address given at a Service to Celebrate the Life and Work of Nelson Mandela

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 15:36:27 +0000

His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales represented Her Majesty The Queen at a Service to Celebrate the Life and Work of Nelson Mandela, former President of the Republic of South Africa, at Westminster Abbey on Monday 3rd March 2014. The service was also attended by the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable David Cameron MP, and the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Kgalema Motlanthe.

Tributes to Nelson Mandela read by the Deputy President of South Africa & Peter Hain MP

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 15:31:12 +0000

SERMON GIVEN AT SUNG EUCHARIST ON THE EPIPHANY OF OUR LORD 2014

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 14:13:40 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster Can we come to see God, to know God? The question is as old as time. And it has seemed to tease people throughout history and throughout the world. Can we come to see God, to know God?

Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day 2013

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 12:04:31 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

Sermon given at the First Eucharist of Christmas 2013

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 11:50:15 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

SERMON GIVEN AT A SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE TO MARK THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LOCKERBIE AIR DISASTER

Westminster Abbey — Sun, 22 Dec 2013 15:29:02 +0000

The Right Honourable Alistair Carmichael MP, Secretary of State for Scotland and Nicola Sturgeon MSP, Deputy First Minister for Scotland attended a Service of Remembrance to mark the 25th anniversary of the Lockerbie Air Disaster at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 21st December.

C S Lewis Symposium: Panel discussion: What can 21st century apologetics learn from CS Lewis

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 13:47:38 +0000

Michael Ward chairing a panel discussing the strengths and weaknesses of Lewis's various endeavours and taking questions from the audience. On the panel are novelist Jeanette Sears, theologian Judith Wolfe, and apologists William Lane Craig, Peter S. Williams, and Michael Ramsden

C S Lewis Symposium: Telling the Truth through Imaginative Fiction

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 13:26:39 +0000

Dr Malcolm Guite addresses the subject of Lewis’s Christian imagination. In works such as The Chronicles of Narnia, The Screwtape Letters, and The Great Divorce, and in his poetry, Lewis presented a narrative, symbolic, and imaginatively resonant perspective on the life of faith. This lecture discusses the place of imagination in modern-day Christian communication.

C S Lewis Symposium: Telling the Truth through Rational Argument

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 13:09:40 +0000

Professor Alister McGrath addresses the subject of Lewis’s nonfiction Christian apologetics. In works such as Mere Christianity, The Problem of Pain and Miracles, Lewis gave defences of Christianity using reason, logic, and philosophy. This lecture assesses the value of such approaches in the 21st century.

The Archbishop of Canterbury's Address at a Service to Celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the National Churches Trust

Westminster Abbey — Thu, 28 Nov 2013 15:55:25 +0000

Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester attended a Service to Celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the National Churches Trust at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 28th November 2013.

A charity supported by voluntary contributions and which receives no financial support from government, the National Churches Trust has, over the last sixty years, allocated grants and loans worth £85 million to help repair and modernise Christian places of worship.

A Service to Dedicate a Memorial to C S Lewis, writer, scholar and apologist

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 11:20:00 +0000

Audio includes: C S Lewis in the sole surviving recording of his broadcasts for BBC Radio, Douglas Gresham, younger stepson of C S Lewis reading from The Last Battle and the Address given by the former Archbishop of Canterbury, the Right Reverend and Right Honourable The Lord Williams of Oystermouth.

Telling the Truth about Religious Identity in Britain

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 12:08:46 +0000

Drawing on findings from the £12m Religion and Society research programme, Professor Linda Woodhead demonstrated how significantly religious identity has changed in Britain since the 1980s, explaining why new, fluid forms of identity now exist alongside stricter ‘mono-identities,’ and discussing the broader significance of these developments for politics and public life.

Personal testimonies given at a Service of Solemn Remembrance and Hope to mark the 75th Anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 13:01:59 +0000

John Izbicki, Lilian Levy and Victor Greenberg

Address given at a Service of solemn remembrance and hope on the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht

Westminster Abbey — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 13:00:18 +0000

Rabbi The Baroness Neuberger DBE, Senior Rabbi, West London Synagogue

As we remember the terror, the death and destruction, the loss of parents, family and friends, let us use today, Jews and Christians together, to remember that ordinary people can do extraordinary things.

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on All Souls 2013

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 16:01:13 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. Today we remember with love and thanksgiving those who have died; a solemn and communal remembrance. We ask God in his great mercy to forgive them their sins and to give them a place of light and peace and happiness in his presence.

Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2013

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 10:41:06 +0000

The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster. Today, All Saints’ Day, the Church remembers and celebrates countless acts of heroism and heroic lives. The stories of the saints remind us of people without number willing to dedicate their lives to the service of God and of their fellow human beings.

A Disturbing Truth: the Church, the poor, and Oscar Romero

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 13:56:17 +0000

Archbishop Oscar Romero was assassinated on March 24th 1980. His statue stands on the facade of Westminster Abbey, in recognition of this modern martyr. The disturbing truth of his words was rooted in a deep attention to the Word of God and a proximity to the poorest of his country. Timothy Radcliffe will discuss how our Churches can witness such a courageous truth in contemporary Britain.

An Anatomy of Truth: conversations on truth telling with a politician, a journalist, a scientist and a poet.

Westminster Abbey — Tue, 22 Oct 2013 20:32:21 +0000

The debate was part of the Institute’s inaugural events season, Telling the Truth. Speakers Wendy Cope, Sir Max Hastings, the Right Honourable Jack Straw MP and Lord Winston addressed the joys, limits and liabilities of truthfulness, in a discussion chaired by the Institute’s Director, Claire Foster-Gilbert.

Damian Lewis reads The Harvest by Henry Birtles at a Service to Celebrate the Harvest for British Food Fortnight

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 14:45:01 +0000

Damian Lewis reads The Harvest by Henry Birtles at a Service to Celebrate the Harvest for British Food Fortnight

Bishop of London's Sermon given at a Service to Celebrate the Harvest for British Food Fortnight

Westminster Abbey — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 14:40:51 +0000

Bishop of London's Sermon given at a Service to Celebrate the Harvest for British Food Fortnight