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In the spring of 2021, while churches in British Columbia were closed to the public due to the Covid pandemic and choral music was only available via old recordings, a letter from the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office arrived in Rupert Lang’s inbox. The Cathedral’s Director of Music had been nominated for The Cranmer Award for Worship, given by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

As one who shies away from any sort of spotlight, Rupert was surprised, but of course absolutely thrilled to receive the award. There was one piece of the story missing though: the award ceremony.

Normally, the Archbishop of Canterbury would bestow the awards during a ceremony at Lambeth Palace. The Covid pandemic and resulting travel restrictions made that impossible in 2021. This weekend, Rupert and other Canadians who received Lambeth Awards during the height of the pandemic will be part of an in-person ceremony and special Evensong service in Coburg, Ontario. Primate Linda Nicholls will present the awards.

Read Rupert’s initial reaction to the award - including his story about how he almost missed sending the acceptance email - here. Next week’ we’ll bring you a chat with Rupert about his award and some photos from the event.

 

(Photo: Lambeth Palace)