Wykehamists, both old and new, united in remembrance of the remarkable Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor of England. Wykeham’s vision led to the founding of New College Oxford, New College School, and  Winchester College in the 1300s, and as the clerk of works during the construction of Windsor Castle, his impact was profound.

The choir and clergy, including the talented Choristers and Quiristers, processed to the Nave Sanctuary, joyfully singing the hymn "Christ is Our Cornerstone," (Charles Wood) creating a beautiful chorus of unity and purpose.

Though many of us frequently pass the cathedral, stepping inside and gazing up at the Gothic nave—remodelled by Wykeham and incidentally the longest in Europe— ignites a powerful sense of wonder. This was further enhanced during the service by the angelic voices of the choir, reverberating through the majestic space.

The choir sang Psalm 149, setting the stage for Scripture from Jeremiah 1:4-10, read by cathedral chaplain Canon Julian Poppleton, reminding us that even with humble beginnings, we possess the power to "pluck up...pull down...build and... plant."

The choir’s rendition of "The Song of Mary" (Charles Wood) was captivating, moving from beauty to a jubilant crescendo. Headmaster of Winchester College, Elizabeth Stone, then read the second reading (1 Corinthians 3.10-17), which reminded us that ‘no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; the foundation of Jesus Christ’, leading seamlessly into the sombre yet profound Song of Simeon by the choir.

Miles Young, Warden of New College, Oxford, delivered a captivating sermon on Wykeham’s life, outlining his three enduring legacies: building, statesmanship, and education. He revealed that the chantry in the cathedral, depicting Wykeham in marble and alabaster, portrays a man of remarkable presence, a lifelike image of a tall man with full cheeks and fleshy neck, contrasting with other depictions at New College Oxford which used an athletic blacksmith as their model! The Warden shared that this chantry was likely approved by Wykeham himself.

Wykeham’s story is one of resilience and self-made success, embodying a belief in social mobility for all. His foundation continues to support 16 boys, our cherished Quiristers, whose duty is to sing in the Winchester College chapel. This noble tradition persists today with the Quiristers educated at The Pilgrims' School since 1966 and carrying forth a legacy that has endured for over 600 years.

After the sermon, the choir led a hauntingly beautiful anthem (‘Office Hymn for the Dedication of a Church’, Edward Bairstow) while representatives from the Cathedral, Winchester College, and New College honoured Wykeham by laying flowers, offering gratitude, and censing the chapel altar.

The congregation then united in singing "Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones" (Vaughan Williams) before the final prayer. As the choir, clergy, and representatives processed out of the chapel to the breathtaking "Allegro maestoso" (Louis Vierne), masterfully performed by sub-organist Joshua Stevens on the splendid Winchester Cathedral organ (built for the great Exhibition of 1851) resonated throughout the nave, drawing enthusiastic applause.

We departed filled with pride for our rich traditions and heritage and an even greater pride for our boys, who always exemplify professionalism and dedication, truly embodying the inspiring motto that "Manners Makyth Man."

By Charlotte Minas 
Q Parent