Please join us for our Sung Eucharist, recorded on Thursday 26th August 2021. While Fr Stephen is away, we are delighted to welcome back Canon Peter Babington to celebrate the Eucharist for us this week. Please support the ministry of St Stephen Walbrook by making a donation online at this link, if you are able.

Celebrant : Canon Peter Babington
Preacher : Phillip Dawson, Ordinand
Soloist: Rachel Haworth
Organ: Jonathan Dods

Readings : Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69
Introit: Holy Spirit, ever dwelling – Howells  
Mass setting: Anglican Folk Mass (Martin Shaw)  
Hymn: How shall I sing that majesty  
Anthem: Tantum ergo – de Severac
Communion motet: Let all mortal flesh arr. Cleobuy  
After the blessing: This day – Chilcott

Our history is full of events that remind us that bread can change the world. The Great Fire of London, the anniversary of which falls next week, is one example. In the Gospel reading, Jesus again tells the disciples that he is the living bread that came down from heaven. He asks them if this sounds offensive. Many decide to turn away. Peter and the twelve apostles continue to follow Jesus, responding to Jesus’s question with a question of their own – where else can they go? Jesus has the words of eternal life. An inspiring response! But would we answer Jesus so confidently? The gospel reading affirms and reassures all those who have the confidence to question. The answer to every question we can ever ask is in the living bread that we share at the Eucharist. A reminder that it’s not just in history that bread can change the world – but in the present too. 

The full text of the sermon is at this link