Join the Diocesan Choir for Two Special Celebrations
March 3, 2025
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March 4, 2025
As Lent approaches, the Parish and Shrine of St Etheldreda, Ely, is delighted to announce a series of enlightening talks aimed at deepening faith and reflection during this sacred season.
Taking place on Wednesday evenings in the Parish Rooms, these engaging discussions will explore theology, art, and history, offering new insights into our faith.
The series begins on Wednesday 12 March at 6.30pm, with a talk by Dr George Herring on St John Henry Newman – A Saint for the 21st Century? Dr Herring, an esteemed scholar who has taught at Oxford and other universities, will examine the life and legacy of St John Henry Newman. A pivotal figure in Victorian England, Newman’s conversion to Catholicism was controversial, yet his ideas significantly influenced the Church and played a key role in shaping the Second Vatican Council. This talk will explore what his journey, from the Common Room to the College of Cardinals, can teach us today.
On Wednesday 19 March at 6.30pm, Deacon Paul Raynes will present Word Painting: Can Artists Shed Light on Scripture? This illustrated talk will examine how artists throughout history have interpreted Bible stories in ways that challenge traditional theological thought. Looking particularly at paintings of the Wedding at Cana, Deacon Paul will consider how artists like Veronese, who faced the Inquisition, and Stanley Spencer, who described himself as a “parson-painter,” combined preaching with painting to offer unique insights into Scripture.
The final talk in the series takes place on Wednesday 2 April at 6.30pm, when Fr John Ablewhite will speak on The Isenheim Altarpiece. This stunning 16th-century masterpiece is often considered more powerful than a sermon in its depiction of Christ’s Passion and Resurrection. Fr John’s illustrated discussion will guide attendees through the altarpiece’s profound imagery, leading us into Holy Week with fresh contemplation.
Each talk will last approximately one hour, including time for discussion. Refreshments will be served, and all are warmly invited to attend.
Join us in this Lenten journey of faith, reflection, and discovery at St Etheldreda’s, Egremont Street, Ely.
