Boy bishop

10:55am Monday 4th December 2006

Twelve-year-old Joseph Wicks, Bishop's Chorister (head chorister), assumes the role of Boy Bishop during Evensong on Sunday December 10 at 3.00pm.

In the ceremony, the Bishop of Salisbury will give his staff and ring to Joseph - who is dressed in replica Bishop's regalia - and install him on his throne.

The service is a celebration of an ancient tradition and also an acknowledgement of the important part the boy choristers play in the Cathedral's musical life.

As Boy Bishop, Joseph will lead the prayers, bless the congregation and receive the collection. The highlight of the service is the sermon which is written and delivered by the Boy Bishop.

In medieval times the Boy Bishop would have taken office from the Feast of St Nicholas (6 December) to the Feast of the Holy Innocents (28 December). The ceremony is a lesson in humility and recognition of the wisdom of youthful innocence.