My time at Romsey Abbey

Tom Wale writes about his time on the back row

Romsey Abbey has history – well over a thousand years of the worship of God. I took my part in this community for about 6 months culminating at Easter 2004. I am a mere blip in the history of the Abbey. But looked at from the other direction I feel that as I look back, the Abbey has played a more significant role in my life than a span of six months might initially suggest.

The Abbey is like no other parish church I have attended – the mere size and history of the building are the most visible; the standard of the music is beyond any where I have worshipped. But most of all the Abbey is so much of the whole community of Romsey, not just those who choose to attend church or some of its activities. The choir plays a role in binding this community together. Families of choristers are drawn in through the pattern of services and rehearsals. Former choirmen and choristers leave and take their experiences with them and use them to contribute to other communities.

So to members of the choir and all their supporters, a thank you to you for what you did to support me in Romsey, and a request to all to remember your role in presenting Christ in society through your daily lives. I shall remember my time at Romsey with great affection and look forward to future visits.