METHODISTS REPRESENTED AT WESTMINSTER ABBEY

Revd Tony Miles, Superintendent Minister of Methodist Central Hall Westminster took part in the first Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey today since 2020 in the presence of TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and other senior members of the Royal Family. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was present along with Leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer. Sadly HM Queen was unable to attend and everyone at Methodist Central Hall Westminster holds The Queen in our prayers.

Held on the second Monday of March each year, the Commonwealth Service is Britain’s largest annual inter-faith gathering and celebrates the people and cultures of the 54 Commonwealth nations.

The service, which was broadcast live on BBC One was conducted by the Dean of Westminster, David Hoyle, and included performances by singers Mica Paris and Emeli Sandé. The address was given by the former Archbishop of York, Lord Sentamu of Lindisfarne and Masooli.

Revd Tony Miles said, 'It was such a privilege to take part in the televised Commonwealth Day service today at Westminster Abbey. The Commonwealth Day service is one of the many significant national events hosted so splendidly by our good friends at the Abbey. Being invited, as a close neighbour, to lead one of the prayers at the Abbey is an honour - the fruit of MCHW, the Abbey, & Westminster Cathedral working together for many years.’ He added, ‘Commonwealth day reminds us of the diversity of the people and countries that make up the Commonwealth, and the importance of recognising that we all need to heed the call of duty and service.’

Photo Credits © Andrew Dunsmore / Westminster Abbey used with permission.