“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels”.
– Hebrews 13:2
Allen Hall hosted its second Guest Night of the 2024-2025 Academic Year. This time, on a Saturday, our guests joined the house for Solemn Vespers. The Chapel resounded with uplifted voices as the welcome addition of our guests elevated the community liturgy. Given that many guests are friends, family, or somewhere in between, their prayers and support find expression, in a special way when beside us in the Chapel. Every day we gather and pray as a community but these Guest Nights make tangible those we’ve come to rely on over the years.
During Mass in the morning, Fr David preached about St Edmund of Abingdon in light of the Christian Tradition of Hospitality towards people of all walks. This 13th-century Archbishop was a true Shepherd of Christ’s flock, serving those on society’s margins in virtue and with every humility. Often, our guests remark about the connectedness of the seminarians and staff. This Guest Night was no exception as the warmth of hospitality overcame the November chill. Our guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and then joined us in the Common Room for a social before departing.
St Edmund of Abingdon – pray for us
