University Sermons
A University of Cambridge tradition since 1300
A University of Cambridge tradition since at least 1300, the Sermons Before the University challenge us to consider faith more thoughtfully.
University Sermons have inspired the Reformation, the Abolitionist movement, and more. Each year prominent women and men from many different traditions deliver Sermons on topics of particular interest to students. The services are very simple, last about an hour, and are open to all.
Members of the University are reminded that they should wear academical dress in the University Church when attending University Sermons. All are welcome and if circumstances permit, those present will be invited to take refreshments with the Preacher afterwards.
2021-2022 University Sermons
University Sermons are at 10am. Members of the University should wear academical dress when attending University Sermons. All are welcome and if circumstances permit, those present will be invited to take refreshments with the Preacher afterwards.
Michaelmas Term 2021
17 October 2021
Professor Anthony Reddie, Fellow of Wesley House, Extraordinary Professor of Theological Ethics, University of South Africa and Director of the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture, Regent’s Park College, Oxford
7 November 2021
Ms Sarah Teather, of St John’s College, Director, Jesuit Refugee Service UK (Lady Margaret’s Preacher)
Lent Term 2022
30 January 2022
The Rt Revd Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Suffragan Bishop of Loughborough, Lady Bishop of Chelmsford, Designate
13 February 2022
Professor Karen Kilby, Bede Professor of Catholic Theology, University of Durham (Hulsean Preacher)
Easter Term 2022
5 June 2022
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño, Resident Bishop of the San Francisco Area, California‑Nevada Conference of the United Methodist Church (Ramsden Preacher)
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Lady Margaret Preacher 2021
On Sunday 7th November, Sarah Teather, director of the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) UK preached the Lady Margaret Sermon before the University of Cambridge, on “The cry of Earth and the cry of the poor”. It was delivered at the University's annual Commemoration of Benefactors service, at the University Church of Great St Mary’s.
Recent University Sermons
The Most Revd and Rt Hon. Justin Welby, Lord Archbishop of Canterbury 'Driven Out or Driven Under - the Choice of the Church'
The Reverend Doctor Ayla Lepine, "Life is a Complicated Business": Groaning Inwardly and Growing Up (Hulsean Sermon, 28 February 2021)
The Reverend Canon Mark Oakley, '‘Daylight sanity and vigour’: George Herbert, Poetry and Truth Decay (1 November, 2020)