University Sermons

Summary

University Sermons are preached at Great St Mary's Church every Sunday during Full Term and on certain great Church Festivals such as Ascension Day, etc. Formerly special sermons were preached on a number of other occasions, such as the King's Accession, on the day of the Commemoration of Gunpowder Plot (November 5th), of the death of King Charles I (January 30th), etc. Still Commencement Sunday (the Sunday before the last Congregation in June) claims its special sermon; the Ramsden Sermon is preached on Whit Sunday; the Assize Sermon is also observed.

On Ash Wednesday the Litany is said; the Doctors of Divinity wearing copes. The Senior Proctor reads the Litany as far as the Lord's Prayer; the Vice, Chancellor finishes.

These sermons are preached at the University Church, as St Mary's the Great is frequently called, from its long association with academical functions. Back in the thirteenth century there are records of such a connection.

On Lady Day a University sermon is preached in the Chapel of King's College. It may be noted that on this occasion, by invitation of the Provost and Fellows, a select company of the University is entertained in the Provost's Lodge to chocolate and coffee and biscuits before the sermon; and the procession goes from the Lodge to the Chapel. After the sermon, the Provost conducts the Vice-Chancellor to the College gates.