The Southwark Cathedral Podcast

In this episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, the Dean, Mark Oakley, is joined by writer and priest Carys Walsh for a recorded conversation of the author's talk exploring the poetry and theology of Gerard Manley Hopkins.

Drawing on Walsh’s book Dappled Beauty, they reflect on Hopkins’ distinctive language and spiritual imagination. Together they consider how Hopkins’ vision of beauty, suffering, and renewal continues to speak to contemporary faith, offering a thoughtful and prayerful lens through which to approach the season of Lent.

In this episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, the Dean speaks with American-British investment banker and philanthropist John Studzinski. As founder of the Arise Foundation, a charity working to combat modern slavery and human trafficking, John shares his conviction that modern slavery is a $250 billion organised crime industry: one that must be treated as a serious criminal issue rather than a “soft” social concern.
 
Together they explore the hidden reality of modern slavery, and the urgent need for accountability in the systems that sustain it. Grounded in a belief in human dignity, John frames the fight against modern slavery as both a moral and Christian imperative, calling for stronger legal accountability and collective action.
 
00:00 Meet John and Arise
01:42 How Arise Began
03:34 Lessons and Frustrations
04:04 Why Slavery Persists
06:39 What Governments Must Do
07:20 Supply Chain Reality Check
09:50 Consumers and Gen Z Power
15:16 The Myth of Slave Free
16:34 Treat It as a Crime
18:18 Policing and Prevention
20:04 Can We Be Optimistic
21:28 A Christian Call to Act

In this episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, the Dean interviews Jo Berry, who shares her incredible journey of reconciliation and peacebuilding following the murder of her father, a Conservative MP, in the 1984 Brighton Hotel bombing. Jo discusses her vow to bring something positive out of her father's death, her meeting with Patrick Magee, the man responsible for planting the bomb, and the ongoing efforts of her charity, Building Bridges for Peace. The conversation also explores the broader themes of empathy, humanity, and the importance of creating a world where conflicts are resolved without violence. Jo's story is a powerful testament to the potential for transformation and healing, even in the face of profound trauma.

00:00 Introduction to the Southwark Cathedral Podcast

00:11 Jo Berry's Story

02:12 The Journey of Reconciliation Begins

05:05 Meeting Patrick McGee

11:14 The Impact of Reconciliation

14:32 Reflections on Peace and Violence

31:22 Building Bridges for Peace

33:48 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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.