The subject of this lecture is Herbert Hensley Henson, bishop of Durham, 1920 to 1939, and one of the most outstanding figures in the Church of England during the first four decades of the twentieth century. A trenchant controversialist, he also kept a Journal that rivalled that of Pepys in the insight it provides into the great events and characters of the leading figures of the day, and in its record of conversations in high places. The lecture focuses especially on his ardent defence of the Church as a national institution, a view that informed his support for establishment before the Prayer Book crisis of 1927-8 and for disestablishment afterwards. What was his idea of the ‘national Church’, and what challenges did it face during his life and after his death?
This lecture is free of charge and can be attended in peron or viewed live online. Please book a place by registering using the link opposite.