The patron saint of our church is St Botolph, a Benedictine monk and the patron saint of wayfarers. One of the rules of Benedictine monasteries throughout the world is that all guests are to be welcomed as Christ himself, for Christ said: I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I work to honour that Benedictine rule in all my ministry at St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate.

St Botolph’s sits just outside (without) what was Bishop’s Gate, one of the gates of the City of London. It was built there as a place of sanctuary for wayfarers and travellers. This tradition of welcoming all without partiality and providing sanctuary to all those in any kind of need is fundamental to our ministry at St Botolph’s.

As the parish priest dedicated to St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate I strive to build on the church’s tradition of welcome. Wherever possible, I make myself available to all who come in need. In the stresses and pressures of the City the parish priest is someone on hand to support and to listen in confidence – you can always tell a priest, because a priest tells no one but God.

I am based in St Botolph’s church and make it my business to meet as many people as possible who live, work or are passing through the parish. If you see me in the street please say hello, if you want to come and see me at the church, my door is open. If you want some peace and sanctuary in the business of the City, St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate is here for you, and all will be welcome as Christ himself.

I look forward to meeting you,
With God’s love and blessing,
Fr David