The Henson Journals

[142]

4th Sunday in Advent, December 21st, 1902.

I preached twice in the Abbey, at Mattins and in the afternoon. In the morning I used an old sermon on the Eucharist, preached as recently as Palm Sunday in S. Margaret's. In the afternoon, I preached on "The Faith that is blessed", the subject naturally suggested by S. Thomas's Day. There was a large congregation, more mingled with restless elements than usual, as, I observe, is the case when holiday seasons approach. My sermon took just 35 minutes to deliver.

At Evensong I preached in S. Margaret's on the Holy Communion, and afterwards conducted a Preparation Service, which was well attended.

Albert & Edwin Saxton came in to supper.

[143]

On Christmas Eve, I received another letter from Mr Routledge, to which I replied.

Dec. 24th 1902,

My dear Sir,

I am very sure that anyone who cared for your character & reputation, as - though you may not believe it - I do, would approve the course which I have adopted, and, assuredly, nothing will induce me to adopt any other course. Consult your friends. You are a Harrovian. Take counsel with your old Head-master, Bishop Welldon, who is again in England, & follow their advice, if you will not follow mine. I have nothing more to say to you.

Believe me,

faithfully yrs,

H. Hensley Henson

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Issues and controversies: grooming of choir boys