University Sermon on ‘A Generous Heart’

The Lady Margaret's Preachership was founded in 1504 by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of King Henry VII. Since the Nineteenth Century, when the terms of the foundation were revised, the appointment has been made annually.  It is now the duty of the Preacher, who must be a member of the University, to preach at Commemoration. After reading Modern History at Oxford and a brief period as a schoolmaster, Stephen Conway came to Cambridge and to Westcott House as an ordinand. During this time he also read Theology as an Affiliated Student and became a member of Selwyn College. Having graduated in Cambridge and been ordained, he then served in the Diocese of Durham where, in addition to parish ministry, he also held various diocesan posts and was Archdeacon of Durham and Canon Treasurer of the Cathedral from 2002 until 2006, when he moved to the Diocese of Salisbury as Suffragan Bishop of Ramsbury. As a bishop he takes a particular interest in politics and community development and in fostering links with churches overseas, and has a special concern for those experiencing mental illness or with learning disabilities.