Sermons
Below you can find transcripts of sermons our clergy and guest preachers have given at recent Abbey services. They deal with current theological issues, religion and world events, and the interpretation of biblical texts.
Where possible, we provide an audio and video recording of the sermon.
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday of Lent 2024
‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.’
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologiand and Almoner
Sunday, 18th February 2024
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on Racial Justice Sunday 2024
Let us begin and finish with glory.
The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby GCVO Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England and Metropolitan
Sunday, 11th February 2024
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday before Lent 2024
In the first few lines of John’s gospel, I hope anyone would find ideas that are gripping and enticing.
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO
Sunday, 4th February 2024
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Baptism of Christ 2024
Returning from Bethlehem.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 7th January 2024
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Baptism of Christ 2024
The Baptism of Jesus by John in the River Jordan is one of the most important stories in the New Testament.
The Reverend Ralph Godsall Minor Canon
Sunday, 7th January 2024
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist of the Feast of the Epiphany 2024
The challenge for the Church is to acknowledge, to welcome, the insight of outsiders.
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO Precentor
Saturday, 6th January 2024
Sermon Christmas Day 2023
In the beginning was the Word.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Monday, 25th December 2023
Sermon preached at the First Eucharist of Christmas 2023
The Incarnation of Jesus Christ is not a myth.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 24th December 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Advent 2023
John Baptist’s voice came from the edge, not from the centre of power.
The Reverend Ralph Godsall Minor Canon
Sunday, 10th December 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Christ the King 2023
Today is a summons to believe in God, not ourselves.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 26th November 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday before Advent 2023
Where is the violence we see and sometimes experience actually coming from?
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO Precentor
Sunday, 19th November 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Third Sunday before Advent 2023
What kind of a nation are we and what direction do we want to move in?
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 12th November 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Fourth Sunday before Advent 2023
Naming God
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 5th November 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday before Advent 2023
Many of us don’t love ourselves nearly enough.
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO Precentor
Sunday, 5th November 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2023
God will wipe away every tear.
His Excellency The Most Reverend Bashar Matti Warda Archbishop of Erbil of the Chaldeans
Wednesday, 1st November 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity 2023
If we wish to be seen as virtuous, then we should commit to a life of virtue.
The Reverend Robert Latham Sacrist
Sunday, 22nd October 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong of the feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey, 2023
May we hold onto the perspective of the heavenly city as we seek the peace and prosperity of our city.
The Right Reverend Dr Joanne Grenfell Bishop of Stepney, Diocese of London
Sunday, 15th October 2023
Sermon preached on the feast of the Translation of St Edward the Confessor, 2023
This is an astonishing place, and today we honour the Saint whose gift it is.
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO Precentor
Friday, 13th October 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity 2023
Discerning the will of God for our lives and obeying God’s commandments.
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 8th October 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist with Inauguration of St Margaret's Choristers
This is wonderful, but it is also a little awkward.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 1st October 2023
Sermon given at a Sung Eucharist on the Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity 2023
Looking for just one thing.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 1st October 2023
Sermon preached at Eucharist with Ordination and Consecration 2023
St Michael and All Angels Genesis 28: 10–17
The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle
Friday, 29th September 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity 2023
How will you engage in community with others in the Church?
The Reverend David Stanton Sub-Dean and Canon Treasurer
Sunday, 3rd September 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 2023
'Let your gentleness be known to everyone.'
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 27th August 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Eleventh Sunday after Trinity 2023
Humanitarianism is fundamental to the Christian faith.
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 20th August 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Eleventh Sunday after Trinity 2023
There is no gap or limit to God’s mercy.
The Reverend Ralph Godsall Priest Vicar
Sunday, 20th August 2023
Sermon preached at Evensong on the Eighth Sunday after Trinity 2023
The dungeon shook and my chains fell off; I’m gonna grieve my Lord no more.
The Right Honourable The Lord Boateng CVO PC DL
Sunday, 30th July 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Eighth Sunday after Trinity 2023
Our life and our work can be given the dignity of revealing something of the kingdom of heaven.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 30th July 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Seventh Sunday after Trinity 2023
The sower has sown good seed in his field and looks forward to a good harvest.
The Reverend Prebendary Dr Tony Kyriakides Priest Vicar
Sunday, 23rd July 2023
Sermon preached at the Festival of St Margaret of Antioch 2023
God is with us in our trials and tribulations and will ultimately uphold the righteous.
The Reverend Ralph Godsall Priest Vicar
Thursday, 20th July 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday after Trinity 2023
‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’
The Reverend Justin White Priest Vicar
Sunday, 11th June 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist of Trinity Sunday 2023
‘Firmly I believe and truly, God is three and God is one’
The Reverend David Stanton Sub-Dean and Canon Treasurer
Sunday, 4th June 2023
The Sermon preached on the Day of Pentecost 2023
The Holy Spirit is the invitation to all people, in all their diversity, to share in the Power of all our powers.
The Reverend Mark Birch MVO Precentor
Sunday, 28th May 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Seventh Sunday of Easter 2023
Hope and Despair
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 21st May 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on Ascension Day 2023
Ascension Day declares the primary task of the Church universal, its true vocation.
The Reverend Ralph Godsall Priest Vicar
Thursday, 18th May 2023
Sermon preached at the Sung Eucharist on the Sixth Sunday of Easter 2023
‘If you love me, you will keep my commandments.’
The Reverend Robert Latham Sacrist
Sunday, 14th May 2023
The Sermon preached at the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
We are here to crown a King, and we crown a King to serve.
The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of All England and Metropolitan
Saturday, 6th May 2023
Homily given at Holy Communion on the Third Sunday of Easter 2023
Today is the day we traditionally honour St George.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 23rd April 2023
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Easter 2023
The end of today’s second reading is perhaps the finest cliffhanger in history.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 16th April 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Easter 2023
Peace be with you.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 16th April 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day 2023
Every broken fragment can now know healing in the light of Easter.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 9th April 2023
Sermon given at the Solemn Liturgy on Good Friday 2023
We must see man and God.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Friday, 7th April 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Ash Wednesday 2023
We do not easily use the words provided.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Wednesday, 22nd February 2023
Sermon given at Matins on the Second Sunday before Lent 2023
Let anyone with ears to hear—listen!
The Reverend Prebendary Dr Tony Kyriakides Priest Vicar
Sunday, 12th February 2023
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday before Lent 2023
Scripture is full of strange phrases.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 5th February 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple 2023
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Thursday, 2nd February 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday of Epiphany 2023
Poverty was turned to riches, sorrow into joy.
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon Rector
Sunday, 29th January 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Baptism of Christ 2023
We, the Church, have been entrusted with a message to rebalance our brains, and save our souls.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 8th January 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Christmas 2023
A reflection on a much-overlooked part of the Christmas story from the Gospel of Matthew that encourages us to live as children of light in the world.
The Reverend Robert Latham Sacrist
Sunday, 1st January 2023
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday of Advent 2022
Is the coming of the Son of Man at an unexpected hour a threat or a promise?
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 27th November 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Christ the King 2022
Jesus rules from the cross and from the place of risen glory.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 20th November 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday before Advent 2022
The unknown warrior's burial somehow represents us all.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 13th November 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday before Advent 2022
‘O where shall wisdom be found?’
The Reverend Dr Charlie Bell Assistant Curate, St John the Divine, Kennington, and Fellow, Girton College, Cambridge
Sunday, 6th November 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fourth Sunday before Advent 2022
‘The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end.’
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 30th October 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday before Advent 2022
Forgiveness isn't fair.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 30th October 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Last Sunday after Trinity 2022
‘Vanity of Vanities, says the Teacher; all is vanity.’
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 23rd October 2022
Sermon given at Holy Communion on the Feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey, 2022
What does it mean to talk about being dedicated today?
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 16th October 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity
'I have called you friends.'
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 9th October 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
What do you want?
The Reverend Dan Warnke Priest Vicar, and Chaplain, Westminster School
Sunday, 9th October 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
‘May you live in interesting times’
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 2nd October 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Jesus has given us a pattern for living and for loving.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 2nd October 2022
Sermon given at Holy Communion on the Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity
Will we perish like fools or learn to live together as brothers and sisters?
The Reverend Dr Tony Kyriakides Priest Vicar
Sunday, 25th September 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
George Herbert
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 25th September 2022
Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Honest and the knowledge that a different sort of community exists in God and can be ours.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle MBE Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 25th September 2022
Sermon given at the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
The pattern for many leaders is to be exalted in life and forgotten after death. The pattern for all who serve God – famous or obscure, respected or ignored – is that death is the door to glory.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby
Monday, 19th September 2022
Sermon given at Matins in Thanksgiving for the Life of HM Queen Elizabeth II - Corinthians 15: 50
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 11th September 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Metropolitan Kallistos Ware
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 4th September 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Eleventh Sunday after Trinity 2022
God’s justice.
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 28th August 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Eleventh Sunday after Trinity 2022
Invited to Dance
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 28th August 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Tenth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 21st August 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Ninth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Whom will he teach knowledge, and to whom will he explain the message?
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 14th August 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Ninth Sunday after Trinity 2022
When God peers into my life, what does he see?
The Reverend Dr Tony Kyriakides
Sunday, 14th August 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Eighth Sunday after Trinity 2022
This beautiful world is now in crisis.
The Right Reverend Anthony Ball Canon in Residence
Sunday, 7th August 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Sixth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Ask, search, knock.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 24th July 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fifth Sunday after Trinity 2022
Do not take yourself too seriously, but take the faith extremely seriously.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 17th July 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fourth Sunday after Trinity 2022
"Music and poetry have in all ages been counted divine..."
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 10th July 2022
Sermon given at Civic Matins 2022
What are you supposed to be? That interests me this morning.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas, on behalf of the Dean
Sunday, 3rd July 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday after Trinity 2022
There has been much talk of borders in recent weeks.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 19th June 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Trinity Sunday 2022
The difficulty about that trinitarian doctrine is the difficulty of comprehending a love that goes so deep.
The Reverend Justin White Priest Vicar
Sunday, 12th June 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Third Sunday of Easter 2022
Love bade me welcome.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 1st May 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Easter 2022
Every eye will see him. No one, not a single Thomas, will be left in any doubt.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 24th April 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Maundy Thursday 2022
It brought Jesus to his knees – a striking posture for God.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Thursday, 14th April 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Fifth Sunday of Lent 2022
Passion, as a term, has a deeper more ancient usage.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 3rd April 2022
Address given by the Prime Minister on the fifth anniversary of the attacks on Westminster Bridge and in New Palace Yard
'Death is swallowed up in victory.'
The Right Honourable Boris Johnson MP Prime Minister
Tuesday, 22nd March 2022
Address given at a Service of Commemoration to mark the 5th anniversary of the terrorist attack on Westminster Bridge and in New palace Yard
Today is a day to unite against evil. Today, we stand alongside each other to pause and pray.
The Reverend Tony Miles Superintendent Minister, Methodist Central Hall Westminster
Tuesday, 22nd March 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday of Lent 2022
The story of Jacob’s ladder is one which has a fascinating reception history.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 20th March 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday of Lent 2022
Jesus was being tempted to be first the Provider; second, the Possessor; and third, the Performer.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 6th March 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday before Lent 2022
To begin to understand the present precarious situation in Ukraine we first need to understand what has happened in the past.
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 20th February 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday before Lent 2022
Sleep, in heaven, is impossible.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 20th February 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Third Sunday before Lent 2022
“What will you be satisfied with?”
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 13th February 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday of Epiphany 2022
There is a difficult balance to be maintained between day to day duties, and the wider concerns of society.
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 23rd January 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Epiphany 2022
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 16th January 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Epiphany 2022
Through Cana, we can see the fullness of life Christ came to bring.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 16th January 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the festival of the Baptism of Christ, 2022
What does the grace of baptism accomplish?
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 9th January 2022
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the festival of the Baptism of Christ, 2022
You are precious in my sight, and honoured, and I love you.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Sunday, 9th January 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Christmas 2022
God is love, and love is his first gift to us.
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 2nd January 2022
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fourth Sunday of Advent 2021
What is hope, and what do we hope for?
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 19th December 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday of Advent 2021
Let our longing be worthy of the kingdom which John proclaimed.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 12th December 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Advent 2021
Memory and hope belong together.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 5th December 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Christ the King 2021
Pax Christi in regno Christi—‘the peace of Christ in the kingdom of Christ’.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 21st November 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Second Sunday before Advent 2021
We often fail to get angry about the right things, in the right way.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 14th November 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Third Sunday before Advent 2021
‘Why pray when you can worry?’
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 7th November 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on All Saints' Day 2021
Jesus wept. It is the shortest sentence in the Bible. Possibly one of the most eloquent.
The Reverend Mark Birch Precentor
Monday, 1st November 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday before Advent 2021
As the clocks go back and COP26 begins...
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 31st October 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Last Sunday after Trinity 2021
The story of blind Bartimaeus is moving one.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Sunday, 24th October 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of the Dedication of Westminster Abbey 2021
Building a Beloved Community with Living Stones
The Reverend Canon Carl Turner Rector, Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, New York, USA
Sunday, 17th October 2021
Sermon given at the Festival Eucharist in the National Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor
When in 2007 we came to refurbish the shrine of Hereford’s own saint, Thomas Cantilupe, it was to Westminster Abbey that we chiefly looked.
The Very Reverend Michael Tavinor former Dean of Hereford
Saturday, 16th October 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Feast of the Translation of St Edward the Confessor 2021
Where do you think you belong?
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Wednesday, 13th October 2021
An address given at a Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication on Battle of Britain Sunday 2019
Within all searching and reaching out, there lies a motivating factor, and that factor is hope.
The Venerable (Air Vice-Marshal) John Ellis QHC RAF Chaplain-in-Chief and Archdeacon, The Royal Air Force
Sunday, 19th September 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity 2021
Do we do any better than the Pharisees when it comes to hearing the ethical imperative?
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 29th August 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 2021
The future of humanity starts with a true conversion of mind and heart.
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 22nd August 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Eighth Sunday after Trinity 2021
The song that Jesus sings is a redemptive song—a song of love and mercy.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 25th July 2021
Sermon given at Evensong on the Fifth Sunday after Trinity 2021
Without darkness and weakness, how would the need for real humour arise?
The Reverend David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 4th July 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Fifth Sunday after Trinity 2021
St Paul himself wrote that in Christ there is no longer Jew or Gentile, male or female, bond or free. The old binaries are superseded.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 4th July 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on St Peter's Day, 2021
The life of our heavenly patron St Peter reminds us that even when we get it wrong, the love of Christ will hold us close.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian and Almoner
Tuesday, 29th June 2021
Sermon at Evensong on the First Sunday after Trinity 2021
How is your soul?
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon in Residence
Sunday, 6th June 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the feast of Corpus Christi 2021
Today is a feast of food, and it is a feast of the body.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Thursday, 3rd June 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on Trinity Sunday 2021
God is for us, God is with us, and God is ahead of us.
The Venerable Tricia Hillas Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 30th May 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Day of Pentecost 2021
I imagine the prophet Ezekiel as a scary chap.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 23rd May 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Ascension Day 2021
We are made for freedom—made to soar—made to share the unlimited life of heaven.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Thursday, 13th May 2021
Florence Nightingale Service 2021 Sermon
Over the last year nurses, midwives and health visitors across the world have been a sign of hope. You have rolled up your sleeves and given of yourselves more than either we or you would have imagined, and we are profoundly thankful.
The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Sarah Mullally DBE
Bishop of London
Wednesday, 12th May 2021
Sermon at the Installation of Tricia Hillas as Canon of Westminster - Revelation 3:14
The Factory Act and The Slavery Abolition Act. A year of change and urgent reforming opinion - firm jaws, glittering eyes.
Sunday, 9th May 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Fifth Sunday of Easter 2021
Jesus said, Abide in me… I am the Vine, you are the branches.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 2nd May 2021
Sermon at Evening Prayer on the Third Sunday of Easter 2021
There is something important about the strangeness of scripture.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 18th April 2021
Sermon at a Service of Morning Prayer in Thanksgiving for the Life of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
We make our remembrance in Westminster Abbey. The Abbey was formative for His Royal Highness.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 11th April 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Easter
Eight years ago in a parish in Winchester, after the Easter Vigil, I was greeting folk at the Church door.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 11th April 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Easter Day
Easter morning. John’s Gospel. Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Mag-dalene came to the tomb.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 4th April 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on Maundy Thursday 2021
A very strange day for a preacher, for it is not really a day for words.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Thursday, 1st April 2021
Sermon at a Meditation for Holy Week 2021
The beginning of the Church is often ascribed to Pentecost and the sending of the Holy Spirit.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Monday, 29th March 2021
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday of Lent 2021
Talk about sin has been unfashionable for a long time now.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 14th March 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Sunday next before Lent 2021
For St Peter it doesn’t get much better than Moses and Elijah.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 14th February 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday before Lent 2021
'Without knowledge of self, there is no knowledge of God.'
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 7th February 2021
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Third Sunday of Advent 2020
Putting right what was wrong.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 13th December 2020
Sermon at a service to mark the centenary of the burial of the Unknown Warrior
Come Holy Spirit and fill our hearts afresh with the fire of your love.
The Right Honourable and Most Reverend Justin Welby Archbishop of Canterbury
Wednesday, 11th November 2020
Sermon at a Sung Eucharist of Thanksgiving at St Margaret's Church
There is a file full of letters on my desk. Some of them, probably, written by people now sitting here.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Saturday, 31st October 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Dedication of Westminster Abbey 2020
Even the Dean of Westminster could not, should not tell you what the outcome will be...
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 18th October 2020
Sermon at the Festival Eucharist on the National Pilgrimage to the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor
Holiness is not an idea, or an aspiration. Holiness is bones and flesh, a life lived and died.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Saturday, 17th October 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity 2020
And then… the gospel.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 11th October 2020
Address given at A Service to mark the start of the 2020 legal year
Law as vocation, law as framework, law as the constant doing right and justice as a culture that we share.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Thursday, 1st October 2020
Address given at A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain
The Venerable (Air Vice-Marshall) John R Ellis QHC RAF, Chaplain in Chief and Archdeacon for the Royal Air Force
Sunday, 20th September 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity 2020
Our choosing to be saved is significant and important.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 13th September 2020
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 2020
To be a Christian is to live in a love that will be rejected and a hope that will be redeemed.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 30th August 2020
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Tenth Sunday after Trinity 2020
'Will we be able to say a final ‘No’ to God?'
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 16th August 2020
Sermon given at the Sung Eucharist on the Ninth Sunday after Trinity 2020
Anyone who has ever helped a child learn to walk will know just how important eye contact can be.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 9th August 2020
Sermon at the Eucharist on the Eighth Sunday after Trinity 2020
We give thanks for this offering, and for its multiplication.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Precentor
Sunday, 2nd August 2020
Sermon given at the Eucharist on the Sixth Sunday after Trinity 2020
Here is Paul’s big idea: however bad it looks, God intends salvation.
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 19th July 2020
Sermon given at Eucharist on the Fourth Sunday after Trinity, 2020
Matthew 11:25-27
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 5th July 2020
A reflection for Low Sunday 2020
John 20: 24-29
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 19th April 2020
Address for an Easter Day podcast, with HRH The Prince of Wales
Gospel: John 20: 1–18
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 12th April 2020
A reflection for Passiontide
From two of the Passion Sunday readings: Ezekiel 37: 1–14, John 11: 1–45
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 29th March 2020
Sermon given on the Fourth Sunday of Lent
Ephesians 5:8-14
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 22nd March 2020
Sermon at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Lent 2020
The sin of detraction
The Venerable David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 8th March 2020
Sermon given on the Second Sunday of Lent 2020
Genesis 12:1-4
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 8th March 2020
Evening Service Address: "Abraham and Isaac"
Let us not omit our questions in the search for truth.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon Theologian
Sunday, 1st March 2020
Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the First Sunday of Lent 2020
What is evil? How would we have knowledge of it?
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Sacrist
Sunday, 1st March 2020
Sermon given at Sung Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes, 2020
Ash Wednesday, John 8
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Wednesday, 26th February 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday before Lent 2020
It is a risky business to have a commitment to something.
The Venerable David Stanton Sub-Dean, Canon Treasurer, and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 16th February 2020
Sermon on The Feast of the Presentation of Christ 2020
Luke 2:22-40
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Sunday, 2nd February 2020
Sermon at Evensong on the Second Sunday of Epiphany 2020
Aren’t gifts supposed to last?
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 19th January 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Epiphany 2020
Look, here is the Lamb of God!
The Venerable David Stanton Sub-Dean, Canon Treasurer, and Archdeacon of Westminster
Sunday, 19th January 2020
Sermon at Evensong of the Baptism of Christ 2020
Today, again is Epiphany, today is Theophany.
The Reverend Dr James Hawkey Canon in Residence
Sunday, 12th January 2020
Sermon given at Sung Eucharist on the Epiphany of Our Lord
Matthew 2:1-12
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Monday, 6th January 2020
Sermon at the Sung Eucharist on the Second Sunday of Christmas 2020
By grace we are gathered and by grace we shall be gathered.
The Reverend Mark Birch Minor Canon and Sacrist
Sunday, 5th January 2020
Sermon at Evensong on the First Sunday of Christmas 2019
We travel in faith, for the nativity story is one of journeys.
The Venerable David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 29th December 2019
Sermon given on Christmas Day 2019
John 1 1-14
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Wednesday, 25th December 2019
Sermon given at Midnight Mass, Christmas 2019
Luke 2
The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle Dean of Westminster
Tuesday, 24th December 2019
Sermon at Evensong on the Fourth Sunday of Advent 2019
Where we have come from and where we belong now?
The Venerable David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 22nd December 2019
Sermon at Evensong on the Third Sunday of Advent 2019
Here, in this country, we are in changing, exciting, and challenging times.
The Venerable David Stanton Canon in Residence
Sunday, 15th December 2019