Theology student and Hamburg resident Mats Nowak will speak about the Anglican heritage of his home city at the next seminar at the Anglican Centre in Rome, on Thursday, 21 May 2026, at 6.00pm (Central European Time).  Mr Nowak studies at the University of Hamburg and is currently on a placement with the Pontifical Gregorian University.

Hamburg is often referred to as the most British city outside the United Kingdom. Beyond its historic mercantile ties and maritime culture, a significant factor in this reputation is the enduring presence of the Anglican community in the city.

Following the Reformation, Anglicans were the first non-Lutheran group permitted to worship publicly in Hamburg – an extraordinary privilege at the time.  For nearly two hundred years, this remained the only exemption granted to any faith community outside the Lutheran Church. This unique status not only strengthened the cultural and religious bonds between England and the continent but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of Church of England chaplaincies across mainland Europe.

At the heart of this story stands the Church of St Thomas à Becket, which for almost two centuries has served as a spiritual home for Anglicans from around the world – merchants, diplomats, sailors and residents alike. This seminar invites participants to explore the rich history of this community, its role in shaping Hamburg’s international character, and its broader significance in European religious history. Through historical insight and cultural reflection, the lecture will offer a compelling glimpse into a unique chapter of Hamburg’s past.

To express your interest in attending, either in-person or online, please contact us at info@anglicancentre.it

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