TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR!

What makes St Mary’s Church, Iffley, particularly special is its association with Annora, a recluse who lived from about 1190-1241. This year marks what is possibly the 777^th anniversary of her death. In commemoration, we are gathering scholars from around the world for a lively and enjoyable afternoon of learning followed by a special service of evensong.

There is the ghost of an arch against the church wall. 

This is believed to be a blocked-up window marking the site of Annora’s cell. The window would have given her a view of the altar, making it possible for her to participate in the services held in the church without leaving her cell. Today we will learn about Annora’s life, the beliefs of devout Christians in the 13th century, and the ceremony of ‘enclosure’ at which she was confined to her anchorhold only to be released by death.

Dr Henrietta Leyser, emeritus Fellow of St Peter’s College, University of Oxford, will open the afternoon by talking about the solitary religious life for mediaeval women. Dr Hilary Pearson will tell us what is known about Annora’s life presenting the scanty but crucial written evidence about her. Dr Cate Gunn will explore what may well have been Annora’s favourite reading matter, the Ancrene Wisse, an early 13th Century guide for anchorites, and Professor Catherine Innes-Parker, Professor of English at the University of Prince Edward Island, will tell us about a collection or prayers called The Wooing Group.

The talks will begin at 2pm in Iffley Church Hall and will be followed by tea and home made cakes. The day will culminate with a Festival Evensong at 5pm in Iffley Church with the girl choristers of Frideswide Voices. They will sing music by Hildegaard of Bingen, Henry Purcell and Malcolm Archer.

Tickets £15 available at Iffley Community Shop or from https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/46249677029

TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM 1.30 pm AT THE DOOR!