Dr Christian Stäblein, Bishop of the Evangelical Church of Berlin-Brandenburg, Silesian Upper-Lusatia, was installed as an Honorary Canon in St Paul’s Cathedral during a special Evensong service on Sunday 21st January.
The Diocese of London has enjoyed a longstanding partnership with the Diocese of Berlin-Brandenburg, which first began in 1998. A popular exchange programme between parishes in Berlin and London offers a unique opportunity for mutual learning across the cities.
Bishop Christian’s honorary canonship follows the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally’s visit to Berlin in December 2022, where the title of Ehrendompredigerin (Honorary Preacher) was bestowed upon her for her active support of the partnership between the two dioceses.
Dr. Christian Stäblein, Bishop of the Evangelical Church of Berlin-Brandenburg, Silesian Upper-Lusatia, commented:
“I am deeply moved by the privilege that I am to be appointed Honorary Canon of St Paul’s Cathedral! It is a great honour and a joy to be allowed to preach at St Paul’s. This Cathedral is known worldwide and has a great tradition. Even our children grow up with St Paul’s, as it were, since this church is an integral part of their English lessons. It is a pleasure to receive this honour and I am very grateful for it. This appointment is another big step forward in our mutual partnership that has been running successfully since 1998.”
The Bishop of London, the Rt Revd Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, added:
“It was a delight to welcome Bishop Christian to St Paul’s to celebrate his service to worshippers in Berlin, and to the enduring partnership between London and Berlin-Brandenburg. Being united in Christ helps to ensure solidarity with each other in today’s tumultuous world, and I pray that our dioceses’ bond continues for many years to come.”
