On 4th November 2008, representatives of the CESEW - including CESEW Chairman the Most Reverend Vincent Nichols and Chief Executive Oona Stannard - attended a prestigious event at Westminster Abbey. Hosted by the Dean of Westminster Abbey, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, other education ministers, staff of the Department for Children, Schools and Families and members of the CESEW together with the Church of England Board of Education came to Westminster Abbey for Choral Evensong.
Archbishop Vincent Nichols in formal choir dress joined the procession of clergy and choir at the start of Evensong before the Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Ed Balls MP, read the Second Lesson. The Choir of Westminster Abbey led the music. Evensong was followed by a tour of the Abbey and a reception in the Jerusalem Chamber.
Archbishop Nichols said: “Evensong was sung with exquisite beauty. This was an important moment of prayer by so many who have key responsibilities in providing education in our land. May God bless this work.”
The Dean said: “Westminster Abbey embodies the long-established links between Church and State in England, links which serve not just members of the Church of England but all the people and those who represent and govern us. It was a pleasure to welcome the key makers of education policy and enable them to place their work in worship before Almighty God.”
