The Gloucester Lecture 1999

Recently, on October 6th; Tyndale’s Day in the church calendar, a smaller group than expected of Society members and friends met at Gloucester Cathedral for the third annual lecture. It was a pity that it was not as well attended as in previous years, but the sung evensong was memorable with the music of Samuel Sebastian Wesley and Herbert Howells. The prayers of intercession were also particularly moving – recalling to mind local, national, and worldwide tragedies and anxieties.

The caterers, warned about our reduced numbers, had suggested our changing from the historic panelled chambers of previous occasions, to a corner of the undercroft restaurant. This proved to be both adequate and cosy on a chilly evening! After a cold buffet and hot drinks we listened to David Ireson’s fine recorded commentary, Let There Be Light, illustrated by the slide set he has produced with help from members of the Ploughboy Group. These sets of slides, together with tape and text are now sold out and another edition is planned. All those who use it find it inspiring and a vital tool in their work to bring the knowledge of William Tyndale’s struggles and triumphs to a wider audience.

David Green