A Shared Celebration of Faith: The Feast of Saint Osmund — 4 December 2025

On 4 December, the Feast of Saint Osmund, Catholics and Anglicans gathered together in Salisbury Cathedral for a beautiful and historic act of shared prayer and thanksgiving. We were warmly welcomed by The Very Reverend Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury Cathedral, who graciously invited our Catholic community to join the Anglican Eucharist for the occasion.

In his words of welcome, the Dean acknowledged both the joy we share in our common Christian heritage and the reality that, at present, we are unable to share fully in one another’s Eucharist. His honesty, warmth, and hospitality were deeply appreciated and reflected a spirit of genuine Christian friendship.

This year, our parish was especially proud that Father Joseph Columba was invited to preach. Father Joseph spoke beautifully about the life and legacy of Saint Osmund — a bishop, administrator, and man of profound prayer whose influence shaped the worship and identity of this region. His preaching was thoughtful, inspiring, and deeply rooted in both history and faith. As a parish, we were honoured by his representation and grateful for the grace and clarity with which he spoke.

Saint Osmund — A Legacy Woven into Salisbury

From the windswept foundations of Old Sarum to the thriving Christian community of Salisbury today, Saint Osmund’s story remains part of the very fabric of our city.

After arriving from Normandy with William the Conqueror, Osmund became Bishop of Salisbury in 1078. From Old Sarum he established the first cathedral and shaped much of the liturgical and spiritual life of the Church in England. His most lasting contribution — the Sarum Rite — influenced worship throughout England, Wales, and Ireland for centuries.

Osmund died in 1099 and was canonised in 1457. His memory travelled from Old Sarum to the present cathedral site, and centuries later, after the Reformation, Catholic life returned with the building of St Osmund’s Catholic Church in 1848.

Today he remains:

Patron saint of Salisbury

A model of faithfulness and pastoral care

A bridge between our Christian past and present

We honour his witness not only in memory, but in the ongoing life, worship, and mission of our parish.

A Step Forward in Christian Friendship

This gathering in the cathedral — filled with prayer, gratitude, music, and shared heritage — was a reminder that the journey toward unity continues. Though full communion is not yet possible, the hospitality, mutual respect, and shared joy of the evening were hopeful signs of the Holy Spirit at work.

We give thanks:

To the Dean and the Cathedral community for their generous welcome

To all who attended and represented our parish

And especially to Father Joseph Columba, whose presence and preaching made us truly proud