University Sermons

The practice of delivering University Sermons dates back to the earliest days of the University. Each year eminent men and women from many different traditions are invited by the Vice-Chancellor to deliver sermons ‘before the University’. The University’s motto from Psalm 27, Dominus illuminatio mea (The Lord is my light), captures something of its purpose: an occasion of focus and exploration for the illumination of the mind in the context of prayer. Today, these sermons occur at the University Church and in College Chapels across the University. They provide an opportunity to hear renowned thinkers from a range of disciplines and perspectives, drawing together the life of learning, spiritual discovery and the quest for truth.

Michaelmas Term 2020

Thursday 8 October Latin Communion at the University Church

Celebrant: The Rt Revd Humphrey Southern, Principal, Ripon College Cuddesdon

Sunday 18 October University Sermon at the University Church

Preacher: Dr Bethany Sollereder, Postdoctoral Fellow in Science and Religion, University of Oxford

Sunday 1 November Ramsden Sermon at New College

Preacher: The Most Revd Paul Kwong, Archbishop of Hong Kong Sheng King Hui and Bishop of Hong Kong Island

Sunday 15 November University Sermon at the University Church

Preacher: The Revd Canon Dr Rachel Mann, Rector, St Nicholas, Burnage

Sunday 22 November University Sermon on the Sin of Pride at Exeter College

Preacher: Sir Jonathan Phillips KCB, Warden of Keble

Please note that the Court Sermon at the Cathedral, scheduled for Tuesday 13 October, has been cancelled.

Trinity Term 2020