Open to visitors from 10.30am, with Sung Mass of the Holy Cross at 11am and Dr Richard Parker’s walking tour of St Michaels and Mount Dinham. 

As part of this year’s Heritage Open Days theme “Everyday Histories”, we are delighted to share our morning Sung Mass service and our history of the church and locality with visitors today.

At St Michael’s, the traditions of music and liturgical feasts continue despite (or because) of the influence King Henry VIII. Today’s Mass is celebrated by Mother Tanya and led by the choir. Music for the Mass includes works composed during Henry VIII’s and Elizabeth I’s reigns, with Anglican Plainchant melodies originating in the 8th-10th centuries.

Setting: William Byrd, Mass for Four Voices (c.1592–1593)
Motet: Dionisius Prioris, Dulcis amica dei (c.1505-1515)

At 2pm, Dr Richard Parker leads a walking tour of “The History of Mount Dinham”, revealing the skills and ingenuity of its founders and the remarkable craftspeople and volunteers who continue to shape its life today.

Enjoy cream teas and conversation in the Café from 3pm – 5pm.