Anniversary Evensong 2025

On 5 June the Friends enjoyed a special Choral Evensong to celebrate 159 years since the consecration of Old St Paul’s on 6 June 1866.

As the building enters its 160th year, marking this year’s anniversary with a choral evensong made a lovely link back to Old St Paul’s original life as the parish church of Thorndon and diocesan pro-cathedral. Cathedral staff Dean Katie Lawrence and Canon Sue Paton led the service following the traditional 1662 Prayer Book. 

On a dark wintery night, the rich red of the choristers’ robes and traditional robes of the clergy looked wonderful against the dark timbers of the building, bringing the old church to life. Altogether, it was a very special 159th commemoration. You could almost physically sense the approval and presence of congregations long past.

Afterwards, those present enjoyed a happy social time with Friends and the Cathedral team, over wine and refreshments.

Our warmest thanks to Dean Katie Lawrence, Cathedral Music Director Michael Stewart and the Choristers, Organist Max Toth, Canon Sue, and Crucifer John Markham, for a very special 159th commemoration. Thanks also to Old St Paul’s Property Lead Anita Evans and her team for their support.

Elizabeth Kay, Chair, Friends of Old St Paul’s.

The Choristers of Wellington Cathedral of St Paul lead the procession

The Wellington Combined Society of Bellringers, led by Master of the Bells, Dylan Thomas

Wellington Cathedral of St Paul Suborganist Max Toth

The Reverend Canon Sue Paton, Michael Stewart, The Very Reverend Katie Lawrence

The Choristers having fun before the service.

Michael Stewart conducting the choristers