The Southwark Cathedral Podcast

In this episode of The World Needs More Poetry on the Southwark Cathedral podcast the Dean is joined by Anna Rastelli, a writer, poet, theatre director, and a staff member at Southwark Cathedral. Anna discusses her role at the Cathedral and how she has organized queer poetry evenings to create a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals. The conversation then shifts to a seasonal poem, 'In the Bleak Midwinter' by Christina Rossetti, which Anna reads and analyzes. Anna shares her admiration for Rossetti's work, noting its blend of gothic and Christian themes, and reflects on the poem's deeper messages of humility and giving one's heart. The discussion touches on Rossetti's life, her crisis of faith, and her contributions to literature. Anna also speaks about the challenges and values of the younger generation, the importance of community in churches, and the enduring relevance of Rossetti's poetry.

In this episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, Canon Kathryn Fleming and newly appointed Cathedral Safeguarding Officer Neil Morter discuss the critical role of safeguarding within the cathedral. The conversation highlights the necessity of maintaining and enhancing safeguarding measures, particularly in light of the upcoming audit covering all dioceses and cathedrals in the Church of England. Neil shares insights into his responsibilities, the importance of community involvement, and the positive reception he has received from the Cathedral community. Additionally, they emphasize that safeguarding is a collective responsibility, providing various training opportunities to ensure everyone is prepared to contribute. The discussion also touches on the challenges and vulnerabilities faced by the cathedral as a public and inclusive space. Overall, safeguarding is portrayed as a vital, ongoing commitment to ensure the well-being and safety of all members and visitors of the cathedral.

In the latest episode of our 'The World Needs More Poetry,' series, the Dean is joined by our new Director of Music, Helen Smee. Helen talks about her musical background, her family's artistic influences, and her roots in London, leading to her roles in Cambridge, London, and Oxford before returning to Southwark. She shares her deep connections with the Cathedral and her passion for her current role. Helen discusses her feelings about poetry, comparing its depth to music and other art forms. The conversation delves into the selected poem 'The Holy Communion' by Henry Vaughan, analyzing its themes, structure, and musical adaptations. Helen articulates her love for metaphysical poets like Vaughan and their influence on modern composers. 

In the latest episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, the Dean, Mark Oakley, interviews Manni Coe, on his recently published memoir, Little Ruins: Rebuilding a Life which delves into topics like suicide, sexual abuse, and addiction. Manni shares personal stories about his upbringing in Yorkshire and Berkshire, his relationship with his brother Reuben, who has Down's syndrome, and how he built a life in the Spanish countryside.   Manni recounts finding a volunteer's body on his land, his own childhood abuse by a vicar, and the healing journey that followed. He also reflects on his strained relationship with his faith, the forgiveness he extended to his father, and his experiences with mental health. The dialogue emphasizes community, support, and the importance of confronting and healing from past traumas.   Copies of Manni's new book, Little Ruins: Rebuilding a Life can be purchased from the Cathedral Shop. 

The Dean recently gave a talk on ‘What are the Psalms?’ Listen now to explore what the psalms are, when and why they were written, and how they speak to our faith today. For those who wish to read more on this subject, the following books are recommended: Charlie Bell: Searched Me Out and Known Me John L. Bell: Living with the Psalms Walter Brueggemann: Spirituality of the Psalms Walter Brueggemann: Praying the Psalms Pula Gooder: Journalling the Psalms – A Guide for Reflection and Prayer CS Lewis: Reflections on the Psalms   You might also like to watch three talks on Youtube by Walter Brueggemann called ‘The Psalms: The Hard Road from Obedience to Praise’.