The organist librarian

Dec 22 Posted blog on internet and checked emails. Sent a complaint email about Delhi guide. Had a very nice Rajasthani meal at our hotel the Golden Tulip. A buffet with delicious sweets. Dec 23. Downstairs for 7.30 and found St Xavier’s church next to big school with balloon for Christmas! Jesuits. Turned out mass was at 8.30 a.m. so ended up having coffee with 3 of the priests. The school principal older and wiser and he made some interesting observations. In India people may be poor but they are not alone whereas in the west they are lonely and nobody has time to talk to you. The Mass was in English with 2 priests and a music group which used their own hymnal compiled by young people. This seem to contain most of the worst 70s American hymns and we had nothing to do with Advent or Mary! All the proper texts were incorrect even the Lord’s prayer and after a while everything seemed to sound the same. The Swedish mass for the Kyrie. Noted one item by Kavin Mathew (Kevin Mayhew?)....

Sunday 16 th Dec packed and picked up Dennis and his presents. Arrived at Acton – both boys had been asleep. Had an excellent lunch at The Rocket. Bruce produced cards from which we were supposed to read words in turn to make up the message and clever boxes inside each other with sweets – Ciaran loved that. Back to the house in the rain for presents. C and S had big piles of course and the real highlight was the train turntable which went up and down! Watched Sports personality of the year and it was obvious Bradley Wiggins would win despite a strong field including 3 paralympians. Slept reasonably and taxi arrived early so we were at Heathrow early. Monday 17 th a good flight to Abu Dhabi on Etihad. I watched 2 films Cheerful weather for the wedding and Ruby Sparks. Also listened to Elgar while dozing. Had a wait for plane to Delhi but it left on time. I watched an interesting Indian film called “Beautiful” which was set in Kerala. Having left London at 9.30 a.m. we reached De...

We took Liz's cakes for servers and clergy and they were much appreciated. Fr Michael at Mass so he leant on me to get up and down the steps. Took clothes to the passage. Have got most of the things out that we need for the trip. Took present to Josie and Ken was there so had a good chat. Saw the end of "The Hour" and watched 2 programmes on Rome by Simon Sebag-Montefiore.

Took Li to station and then found swimming pool closed - should have gone to South Norwood pool!  Completed Clooney essay 2200 words and submitted it. Christmas cards and letters all done. Ran out of cards so if email sent no card! Watched The Hour final episode and Westminster Abbey featuring Mark Langham and An Island Parish. To serve at Santa Lucia service which was lovely. Excellent cathedral choir and Swedish choir. Baritone not loud enough?  He sang a Sibelius carol. The great moment is the Santa Lucia song in procession with girl crowned with lit candles and all carrying candles - so pretty! Looked for David Lester and Chris Hollis but didn't see them.Home to get fish and chips. Daphne Sherwood rang in response to the letter.

Swam 20. Finishing touches to Clooney coursework. Sang at Mass and we did de Severac Tantum ergo - gorgeous. Jerry thanked me for singing - he too graduates next year! Good homily by Fr Peter Gallagher. Having lunch and met a Muslim MA philosophy student who suggested some Sufi wrters for my dissertation subject! To Royal Academy for the Gainsborough, Turner and Constable exhibition. The Constables stood out! Back for meal and more reading on modern Hinduism. Martin Ganeri actually asked a question this evening. Got wide choice of essay topics. Red wine and then to pub and Michael Barnes came for a while. John Park (from South Korea) as incomprehensible as ever! Home at 11.20. Liz had been at John Lewis carol service and meeting with Tony and Ausra.

Liz went to take sample. I swam 20 - very cold outside. To Watermans - there was no music so enjoyed lunch and Helen paid for me as she says we paid for her. Seán and Ciarán on good form and heard all about Thomasland and Winter wonderland. He was much amused by the word "Popadoms". To graduation reception Kensington Town hall foyer and took photos. Only Saira and Luke came from our class - met Luke's parents from Gibraltar - they have been to Kerala. Also saw Fr Kim, Philip and his parents and Diana Liz's teacher. To Heythrop Jewish society Chanukkah party - nice doughnuts and lighting of candles. 2 girls sang the song but we couldn;t cope with new tune and transliterated Hebrew text as well!

1800 words of Clooney essay written - only 200 to go! To cathedral to steward choristers concert. We were checking tickets on the door and it was freezing. Still we enjoyed a superb free concert. Ceremony of carols, Stanford 4 biblical songs, Britten Missa Brevis, Handel all beautifully sung and  mostly from memory - what stamina! To the Friends reception in Francis Street  -bit of snobbery but enjoyed the champagne and chatting to Jack the Queen's coachman. Home to freezing fog and heavy frost on the car.

Heard the rest of the programme on Music and Silence. It seems one should wear hearing aids as soon as you need them otherwise there will be more cognitive loss. To hearing aid clinic and got more batteries and tubes. Shopped at Tesco for Liz - horrid "Silent night" sung by some woman and everything has been moved! Worked on coursework 2 on Francis Clooney. Evensong from Westminster Abbey featuring Peter Maxwell Davies setting of Rowan Williams "Advent calendar" from Choirbook for the Queen.

Monday swam 20 and hepatitis A jab. Have taken typhoid tablets and start malaria tablets on Wednesday. To mosaic and grouted the one for Alan and Ivor. Ta'i chi followed by a nice lunch at Vietnamese restaurant. Liz went for Xray on optigut survey and I read more Clooney. Had a lot of trouble with the printer jamming. Turned the mosaic over to fix in eyes and it fell out of the frame - I think it will beed regrouting and fixing to a board. To Beckenham Catenians and enjoyed chatting. Watched University challenge. Tuesday very frosty - swam 20.

Took Liz to East Croydon to go to the cathedral. Watched more of Westminster Abbey programme and got more Christmas lights from shed. To Putney Vale crematorium for 11.20 funeral of a 101 year old lady. Albinoni, Bach and Handel. 11 miles there. Drove to the cathedral to park and buses. A short visit to the London Transport museum and a delightful display of pictures on Secrets of London. Good seat in upper amphitheatre for Meyerbeer Robert the devil. A very fine tenor and good production. Seemed a bit long and repetitive. My neighbour likes going to unusual operas like me. Back to Victoria and waited for Liz who had been at Earls Court military show. To the Alberys to say goodbye as they are moving to West Sussex. A good chat. Watched Claridges programme.

Li went off to Heythrop. I prepared the Christmas cards and got Christmas stuff (just 2 boxes) out of the shed. To Heythrop for 1.30 for end of term party and sad farewell to Rosa who has been made redundant from the Pastoral mission programme which is definitely a blow. Chatted to Fr Dominic about SyroMalabar church. Did some work in the library on Clooney. Tea at Marks and vespers and Mass with Fr John. Abe managed to put candle 1 on the wreath out so had to go and relight taper at the credence table. Canon Christopher spoke again about the diocesan fundraising scheme. To RCIA meal at Chinese restaurant in Gerrard Street. Unfortunately the noise level made it very difficult to hear. I was next to a charming Chinese lady who works in fashion. Had a discussion with Julie about opening out the sessions and it confirmed yet again that nothing at the cathedral will change until we get away from priest-led sessions. The priests say the focus must be on the candidates - true but why not use...

  Liz asked him to sign his book for me!

Swam 22. At court for 10 and after some deliberations defendant found guilty on both counts and sentenced for 4 and half years for drug possession. Once again the loop was not on and I had to use my hearing aids instead. The defendant's mother was there when we got out of the jurors lift but didn't say much. Glad it's all over but feel I have done my duty to society. Met Liz at Norwood Junction and parked the car ready for late home coming. Had tea at cathedral and Liz served at Vespers of Immaculate conception. Rowan Willams gave a fine address. I sat with Sylvia behind Mrs Williams. Robert Parsons Ave Maria beautifully sung. The sad but was the congregation only got to sing Lord's prayer and Alma. Why no fine hymn like "Ye who know the Lord is gracious" or "For Mary mother of our Lord"? Bach at the end. Shook the great man's hand and he signed my book for me thanks to Liz. Ate at nice cafe in Covent Garden where there is a splendid Christmas...

Swam 20. Yesterday's snow quickly disappeared. Took car to Selhurst and waited for train to East Croydon. Got there in time for 10.30. Annoyed that I had to stop the trial and ask the judge as I could not hear anything - the loop was not turned on. Filled in a comment form to complain - the loop was never properly explained in the induction - I assumed it was just the loop on my hearing aid but in fact it was earphones like the ones I have for the TV at home! It was not a problem in the first trial in the bigger courtroom but in this tril the defence keeps dropping his voice and not talking to the mike. To Heythrop - library first then chili con carne. Had to have a chocolate ice! A good lecture from Michael but I started to wilt near the end! Hard to concentrate. Home to watch Who do you think you are. Liz took up the invite to Coloma's Christmas concert - result of next year's Catenian conference mass planning.

Finished at court at 4.30 so home and had dinner and watched Julia Bradbury doing canal walk in Wales. Listened to a bit of Michael Berkeley on hearing loss. To the cathedral for Gillian Weir's final recital. Splendid playing and a good audience - Demessieux, Bach, Franck, Martin, Willan and Mulet. Standing ovation and she walked the length of the cathedral and into the pulpit with flowers from Madeleine. Even Marie-Claire Alain didn't go in the pulpit! A memorable evening. Nice to see David Hill there. Met Liz at the end - she had been at RCIA with Michael Dunne. Watched The Hour on return home.

Swam 20. After yesterday's drama it was back to the grindstone. Liz went to serve for the schools carol services. For once she ws left in charge of a bishop!

After the ordeal of not saying anything I can now reveal the case. We started on Monday at 9.45 and saw the induction DVD in a court room at Croydon. At 3 we were called and 12 out of the 15 selected and took the oath. A 29 year old balck guy raped a 16 year old white teenager. I was horrified. Crucial witness was her 15 year old friend. Even his so-called sister who went out that nihgt testified against him. The friend who the victim told confirmed her story and so did her grandmother who was like something out of Eastenders. She had 5 bruises. He denied everything but changed his evidence especially about the music and dancing. The judge could not sit on Thursday or Friday afternoons but by the time we came back this morning we were unanimous. After the verdict was given we heard that he had a conviction for trying to strange his girlfriend! What a relief it was all over. As we left the court have been given the rest of the day off the policeman was there with the family who thanked ...

Woke at 4 and 6 and 7. Liz off to the cathedral. I did some hoovering and reading and then to St Paul's cathedral for Sung Eucharist. I was early so did some more reading despite the Germans next to me. Lovely Bach Nun komm der heiden heiland prelude. Men sing plainchant very heavily. Byrd 4 part Mass always a treat. An exc sermon from the Treasurer. Dean presided - he appears to tbe High Church. I hated the vestments and altar frontal - purple with check pattern and blue! Nobody seems to bow to the altar apart from the 3 main clergy! Byrd Vigilate motet at communion. 3 rather odd hymns to well known tunes - why? Lift up your heads to Wareham, O child of promise come by James Quinn to Carlisle and Ye servants of God. Lovely Rachmaninov Alleluias and the responsorial acclamations worked quite well. Mendelssohn Prelude and fugue in E minor at the end but the lady from Stuttgart next to me wanted to chat - she said I had a good voice, they had been to Opera House for the Donizetti and...

Woke at 4, 6, 7 and finally 8. With Liz to Heythrop and worked in library. Gemma Simmonds gave a good session on writing a dissertation. Went for tea at Kensington M & S and then to Vespers and Mass with Fr Archer. Advent is here! Cardinal Vaughan memorial school schola sang Byrd, Palestrina and Tallis and Peter played Bach Fantasia in C minor at the end. Home for dinner and Ocado delivery. Eggs and stuff covered in buttermilk so got a refund.  Dennis drove to North Otterington and got back to 1786 on the family tree!

On buses and tram to Wimbledon for a free organ recital given by David Gammie and others to celebrate the centenary of the Walker organ in Sacred Heart church. Bach Passacaglia and Ad Wammes Miroirs, Widor. Nice to have the screen. Soler duet and Robert Ampt's Variations on Waltzing Matilda for 4 feet. Nice cake like an organ and wine in the hall. I told David Gammie I had met Robert Ampt and Amy but he didn't seem very interested. Andrew Cessana was there.

Woke 4 a.m. then 6 and dropped off so no swim. Started at 10 at court and left at midday. Did some reading on Buddha and Jesus and sent in dissertation subject form to Damian. St George's chapel Windsor evensong featuring Philip Ledger I will lift up mine eyes and fine anthem from Choribook for the Queen by Francis Pott. Stanford Symphony No. 7 on radio 3.

At Seán's baptism at Acton. Swam 30. To court and left at 1.10 p.m. To Heythrop coffee downstairs and chatting to Xavier. Worked in library and had dinner (not very good chicken potatoes and carrots - I think it was the gravy). Lecture from Martin Ganeri. Asked Michael about dissertation - he said he couldn't see me until next term. I voted in the by election this morning and Liz went this evening - very low turnout. Watched Young Apprentice and David finally went.

The Hour as good as ever. Watched Come dine with me.

To St Paul's cathedral to hear American Brian McLaren on a new kind of Christianity. He contrasted the 6 part salvation history we all know with seeing Jesus from his predecessors in a 3 fold liberation, reconciliation and transformation pattern. He spoke about intellectual empathy in the Common Word discussions. He thought the Vatican had never replied to a Common Word. See the world through the other's eyes. He was more interesting when answering questions He said Muslims preferred to talk to Evangelicals who condemn them to hell  rather than liberals who never challenged them. The world is full of dirty energy and he commented on climate change. There must be something better than just War. Preemptive peacemaking is needed. Righteousness should be translated as restorative justice. Pointed to the story of Cornelius as an example of the need to change our prejudices. Jesus should be seen as a gift tot eh world. Love one another his central message. Salvation needs to be linke...

Here we are with Peter at Il Posto on Saturday -  a delightful evening!Li had taken the car to the station last night so no swim this morning. Just as well as Bruce locked himself out and I went up on the bus to let him in!

Read 2 more books about Eckhart or rather skimmed them. Watched programme on the Dark ages and the power of music featuring Jessye Norman and Lucy Winkett.

Swam 30, Wet again. Day 2 of jury service and took my cappucino sachet, cup, tea and milk and my lunch. Watched Come dine with me on return home pretty tired after all that  listening! Did manage to do some reading about Meister Eckhart in lunch hour. Liz to cathedral to serve at Mass with Archbishop (3 MCs!) and then to Heythrop library and on to Acton.                                                            

To Croydon Crown court for 8.45. Saw video and then a long wait. Did some coursework reading. Lunch not brilliant. At 3 we were sworn in and I'm not allowed to talk about the case at all. Home to watch Come dine with me.

Li to the cathedral and I read 3 articles listening to radio 3 including Poulenc Concerto for 2 pianos. Wrote art exhibits round up for The Lion. Bruce came for his suit adn I picked up Dennis and Ann Marie at 1 p.m. Claire drove us over to Acton using Satnav so we went a diifferent way There were 8 baptisms but it was a lovely occasion. Dennis was godfather and at last we got a photo of the whole family. To the George and Dragon for hot food and delicious chocolate cake. Both boys were impeccably behaved and Ciaran did some good colouring-in. Home by 8.30 and dropped off during Antiques roadshow. Watched Michael Wood on India. Lovely Songs of Praise on choral singing from Soctland.

Li to college early so she could buy trim for Seán's baptismal white tabard/garment. Did some reading about Hinduism and Christianity. To Balham library and then coffee and crossant with Catriona. Lent her our Russian samovar and had a lovely chat. Home for lunch and watched a bit of Island Parish from Sark. To Croydon Minster for Martin How's Advent cantata. My name was not on the list and ended up among basses but carried on regardless. Lovely to see Jean and Alan Barber, Roy Nicholson and various faces from the past! A moving and effective work especially the well-known hymns and anthems. Very good tenor soloist and narrator but the real hero was the organist. The handbells and children's choirs were lovely. Left at 6 in rain and got to Victoria by 6.30. Harrow school Byron consort sang Rheinberger at Mass. Splendid Bach at the end. Met Peter at Il Posto and had a delightful chat and meal.

Swam 24. I was up early so did some Google research on Francis Clooney. To Wimbledon Polka theatre for pannini. At first Ciarán was hesitant but once he settled down he really enjoyed the show which was very cleverly done. Afterwards we had a couple of stories and a play in the park. Came home on buses and tram. Watched Come dine with me and Choir of the year 2012.

Yesterday's gospel so movingly expounded by Fr Michael Barnes Luke 19:41-44 Dominus flevit church Mount of Olives   As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it and said; "If you in your turn had only understood on this day the message of peace! But, alas, it is hidden from your eyes!"

Swam 30! Listened to Liverpool cathedral evensong from yesterday - Vaughan Williams, Whitlock and Howells - who could ask for better on this special day! So sad about the General Synod decision against women bishops - how disappointing and out of touch can you be? Went in good time to rehearse for Mass as Westminster cathedral tour was off (pity about that as I had bought the guidebook but maybe I can volunteer as a verger/guide next year). Ended up rehearsing harmonies of Praise my soul and Hail redeemer King divine. The psalm which was about singing was said - why? Jerry is lazy that's why! 2 plainchant chunks sung by soloists from gallery. We did not even run through Proulx Alleluia! Fr Michael Barnes gave a brilliant homily on interfaith - first time I have ever heard one at Mass. To coffee and chat about Synod decision. Took my cartoon to Lion office and met Daniel Tripp at last - he edits culture features. My review of art exhibitions is published! To library and lots of re...

Took car to Selhurst and bus to Norwood Junction. Train and bus delayed so arrived at St Paul's cathedral at 10 to 11. Result no booklet for the service - about 40 people had the same problem. 3 less well known hymns Christ triumphant, Jesus shall reign, How shall I sing that majesty. Wesley Thou wilt keep him, Byrd introit, Walton Coronation Te Deum. Will Todd spoke. Michael Parkinson and Willard White did not show but Dame Kiri did! Duchess of Gloucester was there. Spotted Alistair in the procession. Frankly the echo doesn't help and I had no idea what the new anthem was about -it was a Jubilate by Alec Roth! Saw Chris Hollis and got a booklet. Grabbed an EAT sandwich and very slow bus ride as there had been a big student demo - 10,000 in the rain. The Lost Prince at National Portrait Gallery worth seeing - he died in 1712. Much of his legacy has gone. COleridge-Taylor, Alma-Tadema and Booth centenaries exhibitions. Bought cathedral guide in case I do have to do the Heythrop...

To St Mary le Bow only to find the sung Eucharist is in fact on Thursday - misheard again and I ahd my hearing aids in that time! Bus to Trafalgar Square and booked for "Death in Venice" next June! Read the excellent programme, The Vaughan Williams was splendid - wonderful music (well I knew that I had played it ont he piano) singing, production excellent, chorus and conducting by Martin Brabbins, Had a nice chat to the man next to me who knew a lot about Tippett! At Bromley PC met Garvin at tea beforehand. He told me about their Holy Land Easter pilgrimage when a donkey pissed during their open air Eucharist. The vicar still uses a Holy Land palm on Palm Sunday! TV programem about William Klein.

Monday to mosaic and border now done. Ta'i chi until 1 p.m. only 2 of us there! I missed the train to Strawberry Hill as they changed the platform and I was on my Blackberry. Result I was late as I went on the other line via Teddington. The seminar was most interesting and we learnt about Elizabeth of the Trinity and Eckhart - no wonder Buddhists like him so much! Gemma Simmonds did a good intro covering the territory although she seems a bit formidable. Chatted to several people. Sadly the St Mary's chapel appeared to be closed. Home by 7.30 and watched University challenge and Masterchef . Liz went with Bruce to Birmingham to paint the flat prior to selling. Tuesday slept OK and swam 28 then straight to Currys and changed Humax - waited 25 minutes as only one person on customer services and a queue! No more lines on the screen. To Bromley PC for James Orford's excellent recital. The Wedge again, Vierne, Bridge Adagio (very nice) Durufle. Could have done without Les Berg...

Watched the second series part 1 of The Hour - excellent!

Seán at Liz's birthday lunch Set  off to Selhurst but we missed the train so drove to West Norwood and got train there and then tube to Turnham Green and the E3. 10.30 mass at Acton with music group who were quite good! Ciarán behaved well and Seán was welcomed. Had coffee and chatted to the deacon Tito. The priest is very Irish but the homily was good and at the right level. Unfortunately finished with Shine Jesus shine and it's never easy to get that out of my head! Came home the same way except we got the 2 bus. Julia Bradbury walking along Caledonian canal. Read some of the De Silva book on the problem of the self. To St John's and Liz sang alto again. Howells Coll Reg, O pray for the peace of Jerusalem (very suitable) Christ triumphant ever reigning. Lovely. Watched Antiques roadshow, Michael Wood in India and Songs of  Praise.

Finished reading the Pieris book. Liz went to course retreat at Tyburn. To St George's cathedral for Peter Wright's excellent recital of Bach, Vierne, Cochereau, Bairstow, Jackson and the Leighton Et resurrexit again. Not impressed that Mark Johnson ignored me - it was the St Cecilia day as well. Norman Harper was most welcoming and there was a reasonable audience. On 344 with Dorio to St Mary le Bow. An excellent demo by the church secretary of the Kenneth Tickell 2010 organ which is a real treat. I played two Andrew Moore pieces. There was a good turnout too. To M & S for tea and cake. At Mass RCIA candidates were enrolled. St George's Sudbury all male choir did not distinguish themselves! Nice meal of pork chop. Michael Portillo has continental railway journeys series!

Watched the centenary concert for Solti from Chicago with the World orchestra for Peace conducted by Gergiev. Mahler, Strauss, Mozart, Verdi, Bartok. Only conducted by the maestro once in Mahler 8 in Paris. To the boys "you must watch me otherwise it is a disaster!" head into hands - they laughed and it worked! Do not listen to the organ chord at the beginning - it is not in tune! Attenborough programme.

Did some reading. To St Stephen Wallbrook for Peter's superb recital of Bach, Howells, Leighton, Titeloue and Dupre. Nice walk along north Thames path to Millenium brudge and Tate Modern. Bigger Splash a little disappointing. William Klein's films interesting and Daido Moriyama's photos seemed dull. I rather liked the film of the Jesus type figure in a crowded street and ignored to "The people that walked in darkness" reminded me of the ballet we saw the other evening. Walking against the flow is never fun! Popped into Southwark cathedral and organ being tuned.

Breakfast in bed and Liz liked her book about London. Watched Come dine with me. Westminster cathedral choir has been in Rome.  To Cote in Kensington Court for a delightful lunch with Louise, Seán and Bruce. I had smoked salmon, sea bass and chocolate. We had sparkling wine and it was very reasonable. Sean smiled at me. Li went to hand in the Indian visa applications and came home to a message with Ciarán singing Happy birthday right on pitch! I heard the last part of the Cardinal Schola presentation with Michael Barnes speaking really well. Michael said the main speech was dull so I missed nothing. I was much amused to see Damian and Michael in full clerical gear! At tea chatted to Pauline, Helen and Fr Simon all there for the alumni meeting. Martin Ganeri was so boring - how could he make Sr Sara Grant so dull? Watched Young Apprentice and Come dine with me.

Swam 20. Liz to King's with sample. To dentist as my filling came out again. Daniel fixed it with stronger fixative and no charge! Meant I missed music but met the family there. We went back to the house for lunch and then to the park so Ciarán could try his leaner bike for the first time with his helmet on  -he did very well. It has no pedals and is made of wood. He enjoyed the slide and swings too. Hot chocolate at the cafe. Seán is smiling and looking about much more. Louise took me by car to get my new glasses which are great! Croydon Park hotel for President's dinner which was excellent - lovely pork, shellfish and puddings. Martin How and Nigel Groome were there! Garveys brought us home. But why was Ruth Eagers there? Bob left the association!

To St Paul's cathedral to hear Fr Timothy on "What is the point of being a Christian?" He mentioned freedom, joy and courage and "Of Gods and Men" a lot - excellent. Sat with Simon and say Barry,Roy, Marcus. Maureen Liddy and  Mary. Quite a few Catholics there so it was inappropriate for the chair to imply most of us were Anglicans and it would be great if Fr Timothy joined the C of E! Pathetic said a lady as I left. Simon's and my questions were not asked and the chair asked her own questions and emphasised Fr Timothy's own life. Disappointing! I emailed about it. Watched Come dine with me.

Spoke to Ann. Eye is healing well but didn't swim again. Dreamed about Fr Peter asking about Mendelssohn Song of Praise which somebody else was playing at Addiscombe! Paul Knitter's book is fascinating and involves a serious rethink about Christ and Buddha. Listened to Southwell Minster evensong including Guy Turner and Armagh cathedral vespers featuring Parsons and Howell Coll Reg Te Deum. Also listened to Edington Priory evensong featuring Matthew Martin's Nunc Dimittis.

Eye much better. To mosaic and ta'i chi - Tony gave details of Buddhist meditation. Liz went to optihut X-ray. Watched Michael Wood on India and Come dine with me and listened to Gabriel Jackson Requiem on radio 3. Interesting programme on Lang Lang and University Challenge.

Finished reading for Thursday's lecture - some interesting ideas from Sr Sara Grant about reconciling Hinduism and Christian theology. Watched Songs of Praise from Inneskillen, Andrew Marr's history, Antiques roadshow and Come dine with me. Listened to the Choir. Nice chicken lunch with lime pie and elderflower drink from M and S. Eye still hurts!

Woke at 4 a.m. and at 7 a.m. Took a tablet and tried to get ointment and drops in my left eye which is practically shut and sore. Liz off to the cathedral. Bruce going to St John's. Watched Michael Palin in Brazil part 1 on Iplayer. Watched the Cenotaph ceremony - simple and moving and the wonderful music not least Nimrod and When I am laid in earth. So sad to hear of the bravery of those who have died and their families. I went to the Cenotaph in 1973 and this is the first year I am not playing for a Remembrance Day service so that's a bit sad but perhaps just as well in view of my discomfort! Played For the fallen of Elgar and the first part of Vaughan Williams Pilgrim's progress on the piano.

My left eye became increasingly sore during the day. Liz went off to college. To St Laurence Catford for recital by Hannah Parry-Ridout. Purcell, De Grigny and Bach Wedge very well played. Had coffee with Christopher Town and Michael Toplis recovering from seocnd carpal tunnel operation. On train and tram to Croydon only to find the NHS walk-in full up so came home and completed coursework. Watched Prom of Yeomen of the Guard. To Vespers and Mass Fr Paolo immediately noticed my eye! After mass went to walk in but it closed at 8 so to Mayday A & E. Eventually came outside and rang for an appointment upstairs with Croydoc and saw dcctor who sad it was a bad infection so antibiotics, ointment and drops! Watched part of Royal British legion festival of remembrance form the Albert Hall. It has again been updated. BBC Director general resigned which is sad. Bishop Welby of Durham is to go to Canterbury.

Swam 24. Reread coursework and decided to add a little. To doctor's surgery for interview with nurse about vaccination for India - we have to take typhoid tablets and go back for Hepatitis A topup. 2003 was the last time we had injections (South African trip). To St George's Beckenham for Christian Strover's lighthearted recital finishing with Edward Marsh's toccata on Pat le facteur - perfect for a Royal Mail service or Gareth Malone! A good audience Chat to Jean. Watched Young apprentice and Come dine with me. To Heythrop for a nice meal and Kevin Donovan memorial lecture by Fr Christopher Willcock SJ from Melbourne. We heard 5 of his compositions and he spoke about 1978 with Gelineau and Huijbers but what was the point? Chatted to Sylvia, Martin Pendergast and Diana. Paul Inwood and Phil Jakob and Paul Moynihan were there. Chat to Ann and Paul

Listened to Leningrad symphony from the Proms while reading about Hinduism. To Royal Opera House for the triple Royal Ballet bill - only £6 for a student ticket. Viscera, Infra (very clever use of lighting and beautiful patterns) and romantic Fools' Paradise. Most enjoyable.

Listened to evensong recorded from Winchester college chapel featuring Jackson in G and For lo I rasie up and St Edmunsdbury cathedral with Richard Allain's introit "Cana's guest". Come dine with me form Oxfordshire was interesting. Doing more reading as well.

Liz to King's college hospital for optigut survey. Got to 2050 words in coursework but not very happy with it! Listened to Diana Burrell O joyful light and Jonathan Dove Vast ocean of light with the Choirbook for the Queen score - stunning! Well done both choirs!

To Waterman and music session with Tamar. Ciarán seemed a bit out of sorts but Merle enjoyed it. To Marks at Kew for a nice lunch and Louise did some shopping. Home to Acton and I stayed until 7.30 bedtime. Liz went to RCIA. I didn't go to Margaret Lane's spirituality day but listened to vespers from the cathedral. Superb MacMillan Magnificat and new piece by Diana Burrell. Michael Palin in Brazil was good.

Worked on coursework and got to 1700 words. To cathedral for police requiem but we were late so came home, The real reason for being late was the essay - I forgot the time. Liz went to the Faith Matters talk. I did the Catenian circle minutes (annoyingly had to start again as the changes did not save!). Watched a couple of Andrew Marr's History of the world - very well done.

Spoke to Ann and they are coming to Germany next year with a week with us in July! Finished the mosaic for Alan and Ivor - it just needs grouting and I have planned out the next one. Ta'i chi and Balham library - got The Pilgrim's progress score and more India guidebooks. Wrote 1000 words on Dalai Lama and Christianity for first coursework. I was secretary at Catenian meeting. Vernon came as a result of the Addicscombe pulpit presentation so that's a start. It was a pleasant evening. Watched University challenge and Michael Wood in India and Songs of Praise. Tuesday swam 20.

Listened to radio 2 chorister of the year - not impressed by the girls - sound too like grown women. Pleased that the boy from Portsmouth won - a lovely touching voice. King's Cambridge head chorister not impressive. It does seem unfair that ordinary choir singers compete against cathedral choristers who get daily singing, expert help and public exposure on TV and radio to deal with nerves. Downton Abbey ended more's the pity with a cricket match. Jewish Mum of the Year good final and Sandi was the right person to be an agony aunt.

To Terence's for a delightful lunch with cake and champagne to celebrate Adrian's 40 years at St John's. Anne Fleming was there. Louise brought Seán who fell asleep in my arms! To confirmation and Paul was in a good mood and asked what I'd like to do. I ended up doing book and various other jobs as Eugene and Eric did not make it. Tim was assistant MC. Bishop Alan Hopes and 26 candidates. Told Fr Alexander I had a dream about him dismissing me as assistant master of music! He laughed. Fr Michael had his photo taken in the black cope for All Souls vespers on Friday. Paolo has to sign in with the police each week! Watched Michael Wood on story of India and some useful material on Buddhism. Michael Palin in Brazil is fun. Sunday to Catenian Mass for 6 provinces. We took the car as trains up the creek and it was very wet. Bishop John and I was crozier. G minor mass and Mawby Ave verum stunning as always. Nice lunch at the Rubens of beef but we had to wait while each table ...

Swam 22. With some trepidation I emailed about the All Saints day mass pointing out that we should sing the psalm of the day, a gospel acclamation which is an Alleluia and an Agnus Dei not "Behold the Lamb of God". Joey responded favourably and said others had asked about getting Laudate full music copies. The college has no Calamus licence and photocopies abound! Liz went shopping and I did reading for essay 1. Served at vespers for All Souls Day in the All Souls chapel and for Mass with Bishop Alan Hopes. The men sang Anerio requiem. Watching Michael Wood on India but fell asleep! The All Saints day mass was the 1 p.m. one at Heythrop and I sang in the schola. Fr Dominic celebrated. We sang For all the saints but omitted 3 verses. The psalm was a Taize setting of Daniel 3 and verse 5 became the Gospel acclamation! The Schubert mass setting all the tenors found they did not have page 2 of the photocopies so we made it up. Mumbled our way through the Creed as well! Did readin...

To Brentford on trains and bus and met the family at softplay. Amelia was there with Rufus and Scarlett and her Australian mother-in-law. Had a very nice lunch at Syon House - I had beef pie. Built track and the boys put on their Buzz outfits. To opticians in Ladbroke Grove and Mr Shannon advised new specs - £591! Not had new ones for 4 years and eyes are healthy! To British Museum to see the Spanish prints especially Goyas and fine Asian galleries and Asian drinking rituals. To Westminster Abbey for Professor Keith Ward's lecture on faith and secularism. Saw Graham Hedges. Watched Michael Palin in Brazil and University challenge.

Read the last article for this week's work on Helios - 35 pages about Pieris by Fleming. Swam 20 and Liz came as well. To All Saints Tooting - I was early so had coffee at the Kitchen Table. Rosa Cook's funeral - she was 90. Alan one of her sons recognised me - he used to work on the mobile library. Not that many people there considering she had been church warden - she was 90. Organist was a stranger to the church too - he played Elgar and Bach. There seemed to be no provision for people not going to the cemetery before the reception so I went to Balham and got 2" x 2" photos done for Indian visa. To British library and advice on conservation of old photos and family Bible  - keep in cool place and take digital photos of material now. Bus and walk through Mayfair to RA Now. The prices astronomical but quite a few works already sold. Buses to St Paul's cathedral - long walk to No. 9 bus stop. Nice meal at Pizza express and then discovered speaker could not get her...

Swam 20. Mosaic and nearly finished the project for Alan and Ivor. Ta'i chi and struck again how similar the ideas are to Buddhist enlightenment and emptying. Had a brief chat to Tony about it. To Balham library and got 2 guidebooks to India which was good as Trailfinders rang. Have now confrmed flights and itinerary. We will stay in the hotel in Kochi as the Jesuit houses are not air conditioned. The driver will be available for our leisure days in Jaipur and Udaipur. In both places we will want to get to Mass and there are Catholic churches there. Did some reading about Pieris.

Richard Blackford's "Mirror of perfection" was featured on The Choir on Radio 3. It is worth hearing! Vespers from Liverpool Metropolitan featuring Pachelbel. An exciting new piece by Roxanna Panufnik for the Choirbook for the Queen - Joy at the sound.

Woke early as clocks went back an hour. Ciarán wanted stories too. To St James Riddlesdown to play. Arrived 8.55 and lady came but disappeared - she was preparing coffee! Choir turned up 9.15 by which time I was cold. Went through anthem and setting - a wierd one by Roff with several key changes. Never played an opening voluntary as time ran out. Christine Spurway very welcoming. I played Karg-Elert Nun danket as had played it twice this week in Leeds. Anthem was Lead kindly light by Sullivan - not a great setting! At coffee met a couple from Tasmanian Christine Clifford. Home for roast duck lunch and Dennis and Bruce came too.

Did clearing up and making beds etc. Liz to college. Practised music for tomorrow. To Whitechapel and arrived early so went to Whitechapel gallery. 2 rather odd displays by Mel Boechner and Giuseppe Penone. Met Adrian in the coffee bar. The tour of the bell foundry was interesting but tiring. 2 and a half hours of standing is too much. It is the oldest business in the country still running - 1420. Their bells go all over the world and they also make lovely handbells (£250 each!). St John's organised the visit. I hopped on a 25 bus and heard part of the Bloomsbury Baptist recital by Richard Walker from Shrewsbury. The Jongen Sonata eroica was well played. Served at Mass with Fr Michael Durand and Fr Timothy Radcliffe preached and I spoke with him afterwards. He is very pleasant. To St Monica's Hoxton Square at Anton's request. Saira was there but it was all rather disorganised. We ended up saying the rosoary outside and no attempt was made to reach out to passersby! I nipped...

Lie-in. Unpacking, cleaning, hoovering. Sorted out hoover, bedroom chair and bedroom carpet lip. Read 3 articles. Watched Leeds piano competition (amazing to think we there on that stage this week) Rachmaninov 3. QI and Andrew Marr History of the world part 1. Programme about Fanny Waterman.

Thursday another good breakfast - one of our nights was complimentary as we had a noisy night on our previous visit! I wnt back to Royal Armories museum to see floor 3 and found the South African war material and the jousting. To Town Hall for 12 and really enjoyed playing the organ there. Another treat! I played Moore, Vaughan Williams, Eric Smith and Karg-Elert. I should have brought my Bairstow! To Leeds City museum - interesting Roman and Egyptian stuff, display on stolen, smuggled or taken. Leeds story very well done. Picked up case from hotel and 3.45 train back arriving at 5 p.m. so time to get to college. Nobody has had any results and no sign of The Lion. Martin Ganeri seems to be serving up his research as a lecture! Chatted to Xavier about the India trip - we have brought the flight forward and saved £300 by going with Etihad. This will give us longer in Kochi and Xavier will investigate a room at the Jesuit provincial house which is away from the city. Watched Come dine wi...

Wednesday excellent breakfast. To St Anne's cathedral for 10 a.m. Couldn't find anyone eventually to the house and Mgr MacQueen. Lots of phone calls to Ben Saunders who knew nothing about it. It seems the young music administrator had told nobody! Eventually Emmett the sacristan took us to the console but he turned the key twice - I can't think why! Result no sound so we abandoned the attempt. It was all embarrassing and annoying and apologies all round but it should not have happened! Tea at Leeds art gallery and a look around - interesting displays about British landscape. To Leeds college of music for free concert by Junior Royal conservatoire of Scotland. Excellent trumpeter, oboe and pianist. Schoolkids present were getting restless and the teacher did not help! The Albinoni oboe concerto and the Chopin scherzo were outstanding. To the Minster where there had been a big musical funeral. Once the place cleared I was left to play and it was a treat. Simon Lindley was fri...

Tuesday X68 to Holborn tube to King's Cross 9.45 train to Leeds. Walked to Jurys Inn and very helpful manager got us into our larger room with view. To Royal Armories museum and this was most interesting and included sections on peace and live demos. Saw 2 of the 3 floors including hunting and War. Eventually ate at Rajas next to the Opera House - huge pizza! Faust was very well done and the seats were in the middle of the Upper circle which felt close to the stage and reduced for OAPs! The production used a lot of video and it really worked. Excellent singing too. Peter Auty and James Cresswell outstanding plus Marcin Bronikowski and Robert Anthony Gardiner. Juanita Lascarro and Sarah Pring also very good.

Did some more reading. To Marks and Spencers Victoria for meeting about the Mass. Andrew, Errol and Ray all one time and they brought hymnbooks. All agreed. Marian came to say Duncan was delayed and he arrived soon after the others had left so I passed on the information. Apparently John Rayer does not know "Hail the day that sees Him rise"!! Duncan said he would find it on Youtube for him. Watched University challenge while we had dinner. My back is playing up near my shoulderblade - might have pulled a muscle.

Fog! We were promised hot air from the Sahara but no sign of it! Swam 20. To mosaic and Linda was late as car did not start. I went and got milk and biscuits. Seem to have mislaid some tiles and a board. Bored by flowers mosaic - just have to do filling in bits and it's taking time. The ceramics have come out beautifully in the firing. Ta'i chi - still cannot remember the moves!

Liz to college. I was acolyte at Mass attended by Aid to the church in need conference. Archbishop Mennini was the celebrant and Archbishop Ignatius of Kos was the preacher. Emmanuel was a pain! So much fussing over a bishop's lost spectacles!  Choir sang Howells Salve regina. To St Stephen's Rochester Row for coffee and cake. Excellent Kamerkoor Cantate Dutch women's chamber choir conducted by Dion Ritten. Michael Haydn, Taverner, Holst, Wood and some little known composers. Their tuning was immaculate! And their expressions excellent. I liked their outfit too - black trouser suits with purple lapel decoration. To park next to Tate Britain for picnic and reading Lipner article about Hindu theology which is very heavy going. Wait for bus (affected by massive anti-cuts demonstration) so tube to South Ken and 345 to Allen Hall. Arrived in plenty of time to rehearse with Derek Hyatt. He is a Liverpudlian former Anglican from Chiswick parish. Good to see Brian and everyone ver...

Gave out leaflets about Norwood circle at 3 masses at Virgo Fidelis Upper Norwood. Bill spoke really well. 190 leaflets taken and I found it best to give them out as men arrived at Mass. SOme of the brothers will not wear name badges or really engage with strangers! Liz came to the evening Mass. The new priest Fr Clark is conservative and the music is dire! Did lots of reading and in fact finished the Clarke book. After lunch to Penge Congregational church to hear 4 organists play the magnificent Lewis organ - Martin Ball, John Webber, Marilyn Nicholson and Robert Cooper. We had some splendid Dubois and Vierne, Schumann, Rheinberger and Buxtehude. A sumptious tea! Watched Downton Abbey, Antiques roadshow and Come dine with me. Songs of Praise from Royal Albert Hall.

Woke and dropped off so no swim. To Bevis Marks synagogue with South London interfaith group - interesting building and some interesting comments on Buddhism from the guide! Mojews are American Jews who embrace other faiths? To St Etheldreda's to hear from a kindertransport survivor - it was her 88th birthday!. I would have liked to have asked her if her faith sustained her as she lost most of her family. She came to England aged 14 and remained independent. I came home and Liz went to Acton. Did some work and listened to Shostakovich 10 from the Proms conducted by Petrenko. I see he stood in for Colin Davis to conduct Elgar 1! To Southfields gallery to see Andrea Leila Brown's amazing work. I liked the shells one but some of her stuff is over the top. Most of the mosaic class were there and Mary introduced me to Ann wife of the curate at All Saints Tooting. I mentioned Rosa Cook who was church warden there and worked at Balham music library with me. She has just died aged 90 a...

Swam 20 and Liz came. Practised some Buxtehude on the piano. To Chislehurst to collect Catenian recruitment banners and took them to Colin's - 90 minutes. Late for Mass at Heythrop - it was the UCL chaplain celebrating Fr Peter Wilson. Had lunch and to coffee in hall where book sale was going on. Worked in library. First interfaith sharing of the term - 13 there, Islamic society did not support and only Abigail from the Jewish society. Chatted to Andrew and everybody contributed so that was fine. Michael Barnes on engaged Buddhism which was interesting. Got petrol on hill - had to pay in advance, checked tires. Watched Gareth Malone work choirs semi-final. It seems we get our results by post next week and have to ask for the comments. Support growing for nomination of Damien for Principal's prize.

Swam 21. I think I have gained weight having not been at the pool for a week! To Watermans and Ciaran really enjoyed the session with Merle. To Sainsburys for fish and chips then I left to get to the Hinsley room in good time. Excellent first session on Sharing Eden with David and Natan 2 of the authors giving invaluable insights. To Marks for tea and toasted sandwich. Chat to Francis and Michael and then to Peter Ste vens recital which was excellent and a reasonable audience. Bach, Buxtehude, Franck, Fricker, Messiaen and Durufle. Rosa and Fr Dominic were there - results not posted until Friday - most annoying!

To Bromley to return Debussy score and attend festival winners concert. Excellent Fench horn and cello. 15 year old girl singing like an opera singer - not to my taste. Older man best in a comic song rather than Handel or Schumann. 2 good pianists. Flute and harp started well then in second piece harp cocked it up twice. Saw Gary Sieling and chatted to a man from Harrow male voice choir. To St Paul's cathedral for Karen Armstrong the case for God. She made it clear that we can say very little about God at all as "He" is beyond all telling. Focused on compassion and the golden rule. Road to Emmaus was well explained at question time. Covered a lot of ground and myth as action, mystery as doing very interesting. Sat with Simon Surtees and saw Michael Redman. Watched Ian Hislop on stiff pper lip and Great British bake off. Did some more reading.

I listened to Eric Chisholm's first piano concerto yesterday while reading about Buddhism. Interesting work based on Scottish folk tunes. Woke at 3 a.m. dreaming about guess who? Fr Joe. Woke 8.45 so no swim. Checked music for Saturday at Allen Hall.

Karen swopped keyboards (I had taken hers by mistake from Coulsdon) but now I don't have a music stand - Karen will look for it! Result no swim. Mosaic and Linda back from Kos. I was early and got a lot done. Ta'i chi and 2 new recruits. To Balham library and it poured! Got a book on Vaughan Williams and 2 books by the Dalai Lama. To clergy supper of Norwood and Beckenham circles. Picked up Fr Tony from East Croydon and a pleasant meal. Canon Jim Pannett spoke well. Fr Joe was there but avoided any contact with him! A good turnout. Sat with Rene Barrett.

By car to Clapham as trains in a mess. 6.7 miles nearly as far as Coulsdon! Arrived 9 a.m. and time to sort out things. Vicar very pleasant and is to be area Dean. People friendly. Good cantor for the psalm. Difficult to judge volume as console is under the pipes but told it was fine. Men in congregation sing well and descants in the Thorne setting! All went well and got paid as well. There are 6 applicants including youngsters and professionals so unlikely to get it! Rehearsed There is a redeemer using Bluthner piano. Did some work on Helios. To St John's for evensong - Murrill in E and Mendelssohn Verleih uns frieden. Antiques roadshow - fell asleep. Downton Abbey took a sad turn. Servants programme very interesting. Good evensong from Bath.

Watched Leeds piano competition Prokofiev 3 played by young Ukranian. Jewish Mum of the year on channel 4 is fascinating.

To National pilgrimage to the shrine of St Edward. Talk by Canon White about the saint and he mentioned the Abbey's ecumencial and interfaith connections. No tourists so able to follow the prayer walk. In the choir for Sung Eucharist with procession and incense. Mozart and Monteverdi sung  by the special choir. Met Revd David Johnson from Crewe at lunch who knows Tim Bevan retired Bishop of Portsmouth formerly Johannesburg. He told me a ffrench-Beytagh story I did not know. Renewal of baptismal promises in the Lady chapel and prayers at the shrine. Saw Pat and Jean Castledine also Beryl and Anne's husband! Visited the gardens and in choir for evensong Dyson in D and Philip Moore setting of Andrew Motion's poem. Procession to Lady chapel. To tea at M & S and saw Inez. Fr Archer at Mass and met Fr John previously in Stevenage for 10 years. Arranged Monday with Fr Tony. Not impressed that my poster for Sharing Eden not up at the back so put out leaflets - it is in the new...

Friday woke late so no swim again! Met Phil in street and saw prommer from LPC. Got a birthday card for Louise and later posted it and got food. To St George's Beckenham for recital by Michael Bell of Chislehurst, Lemaire's Carmen themes (tremulant - ugh!) Mozart changes by Garonyi - leave Mozart alone! First movement of the Whitlock sonata which is dedicated to Dorothy L. Sayers and reflects Rachmaninov and Delius who died the year it was composed. On return home I checked Dad's score of it - fiendishly difficult! Did some work. Produced my first column on forthcoming art events and ROH student standby scheme for The Lion. To ENO for Julius Caesar - we got Metro offer £55 upper circle seats for £10 each! A brilliant production with great singers especially Laurence Zazzo. Very clever production with excellent dancing. Home by 11.55. Anna Christy is a singer to watch!

Woke late and spoke to Ann. To Mass which was led by guitars and we sang Benedictus instead of the psalm - very odd! Also Behold the lamb of God as the Agnus Dei. Nice song by Marty Haugen at the end. To coffee and chatted to Michael Smith. Worked in library and went to first meeting of the Arrupe group Faith in action. Much discussion about what to do! I suggested linking up skills available to needs e.g. language skills and literacy skills. Lion newspaper want copy tomorrow! Dinner with Fr Etienne on sabbatical. Martin Ganeri was much better as we asked questions and got him away from his script. Michael Barnes gave us coursework which looks O.K.

Wednesday to Brentford. Had time for a coffee before meeting the family at Tamba's class. She was delighted to see us and Ciarán was fully involved especially having Mummy there. He played with Merle. We had a very nice tandoori lunch and then in the car to home. Ended up playing musical instruments in his bedroom. Seán is opening his blue eyes and looking around especially at his cot mobile. Liz went off to RCIA with Bishop John and I went back to Watermans for the film of "Much ado about nothing" from Shakespeare's Globe. Hilarious! In some ways better than the theatre as more comfortable and could see faces so much better but I suppose live theatre is still better! Home around 11.45 p.m.

Another lovely day. Swam 20 would have been more had Liz not been able to find her card. Listened to Prokofiev's Cinderella conducted by Gergiev LSO from the Proms with piano score. The recording cut the end of Act 2 which was a shame! A most inventive score! Bruce collected dining room small TV to take to Louise and brought us his old one. He also took wooden bike and bouncer. Spoke to Fr Tom Creagh-Fuller and we has put the conference Mass in his diary - have sent out a draft order of service. Watched Come dine with me, Great British bake off and Ian Hislop's Stiff upper lip.

Caught up on recorded programmes - Come dine with me, Songs of Praise from Salford with Russell Watson, Vikings with Neil Oliver, Best of Men about Sir Ludwig Guttman who started the Parlaympics movement at Stoke Mandeville. Very moving!

After yesterday's autumn sunshine, rain. Swam 20. Was late again for mosaic and finished the painting of the ceramics ready for them to be fired when Linda returns from Kos! To St Anne and St Agnes Lutheran Wren church for Martin Knizia's excellent recital with a good audience! Buxtehude and Bach - he had changed the advertised programme but I had the scores.

Hoovered downstairs and Liz went to the cathedral and evensong at St John's. To St Paul's cathedral crypt for talk on ordinary time by Paula Gooder - excellent. I commented on worship and LCD making the ordinary dull and comparing with the extraordinary in a cathedral. Brought in Andrew Carwood's comment on singing from the heart. Michael Redman was there. To St Barnabas Ealing for organ festival on Hill organ brought from Southsea. Some variable playing and big screen. Chris Eastwood was outstanding in Bach, Wammes and Reger. Paul Ayres own piece Fantasia 150 was the best part of his slot. Mendelssohn Sonata No. 3 rather thick sound and second movement too fast. John Hudson seemed lacking inconfidence - his Bach was cautious. Easthope Martin Evensong with tremulant not to my taste. Guy Eldridge pieces showed off the soft stops. Tea in garden and chatted. Edward Tambling now has a moustache and his performance was a bit offhand. If you are going to play Rhosymedre you must ...

To St Joseph Bunhill Fields. I thought the event was at 11.30 a.m. for about an hour - it turned out to be 4 hours! Result no work done! Mass celebrating the 50th anniversary of Vatican II opening. Organist really a pianist had a strange habit of waiting at start of verses! Met Sr Sylvia Carmelite like Sr Jean in Ware. Lunch then Fr Joe Ryan and Barbara Kentish from Westminster Justice and Peace commission spoke. 31 people in a circle with about 9 hogging comments not very successful! Exhausting. Met Liz at M & S for tea and a bun. Farnborough school choir sang well at Mass - Henry Smart's Psalm 23 and Widor Kyrie. Watched Elgar 1 from Proms and Ian Hislop on the stiff upper lip.

Swam 26. Did some reading and wrote first article for The Lion about Ingres painting of the month at National Gallery from their website. Also devised survey. Positive responses from Daniel and Faye. 2.15 requiem mass for Nigel Doughty businessman who supported Labour so Gordon Brown spoke (too long) Bishop John Arnold celebrated. Not impressed by soloist singing Schubert Ave Maria. I was cross and boat. To Tate Britain to see Turner Prize. Unimpressed - one artist expects you to sit for 93 minutes on benches watching his film, another has a triptych about Manchester Woolworths fire. Black and white large drawings and live art which looked like a mess? Earl grey and scones cheered me up in the Members room and had a look in the shop. Much is being changed. The rehang of the 20th century and the focus rooms work rather well especially the Victorian sentimentality in relation to the pre-Raphaelite exhibition. I feel an article coming on! Watched Come dine with me, Leeds piano Beethoven 5...

Woke late so no swim again. To St Mary at Hill which I do not recall visiting for Peter Wright's playing of Brahms preludes and Bach Fantasia in G. Excellent and nice to see a church empty of chairs and art celebrating the sea to look at. Peter talked about Francis Jackson's 95th birthday and still playing. Priscilla had meningitis 2 years ago and has recovered well - she is a Quaker and an ideal match for FJ. Peter had fractured his little finger but is recovering. Also had a look in St Magnus the Martyr which is Forward in Faith and has a fine model of old London Bridge. To Heythrop and coffee - gave Fr Dave leaflets. Met Faye West in the little Lion office and happy for me to write about art and music. Worked in library and had dinner with Michael and Simon. Michael Barnes on Buddhism excellent! The chat forum has now been set up. Watched Gareth Malone in Manchester airport and Come dine with me worst ever candidates!

Woke up late again - have not had a swim this week. Sean is gaining weight! To Hinsley Room for the whole of the spirituality day and great to be back! Michael Dorey did a lovely meditation on the vine and the branches and we ate the grapes on display at lunchtime! Cathedral closed for filming with Kenneth Branagh. Saw Anton in St Paul's and bought cards. He put up Sharing Eden poster and I took one to Church House bookshop. I shared Brian Wren's "I come with joy, a child of God". Crozier for Archbishop Vincent at Mass for Society of St Barnabas - not many of them. Paul M actually greeted me! They support Anglicans wanting to become Catholic priests. I wonder who supports priests going the other way? The Catholic church behaves really badly to such people - they become "persona non grata" and forgotten. Hardly very Christian! Liz went to RCIA group for her course and enjoyed it. Watched Citizen Khan which is hilarious, University Challenge and a bumper Come...

To doctor - very nice lady with veil who checked my skin and said not to worry about large freckle on arm. Some twit in the waiting room was on his mobile and when asked to move outside said I had spoilt his day. The point which he did not get was that I had forgotten my hearing aids and might not have heard my name called. Acolyte at chapter Mass with the boys singing Britten Missa Brevis Duo seraphim and Panis - Guardian angels. Fr Pascal asked after Liz which was nice and Paul actually greeted me! To ENO for Martinu's Julietta. Good production, excellent orchestra under Gardner and fine tenor but the opera itself .... mmmmm....not that great, hard to keep awake! Success in booking Coloma plainchant choir for Catenian conference Mass - still cannot reach Fr Tom until next Tuesday. Designed poster for Sharing Eden.

After a late night an early start to get bus to Brixton and tube to arrive in good time for 9.30 mass. I was crozier for Bp John Sheringham - he can't sing and his voice is unimpressive. Paul M said nothing as usual. The choir sang Byrd Mass and Mozart Ave verum. Judges looking impressive in their full rigout and wigs. To Post Office and they had my diary - I said it was red/brown (The clou ro my new one for next year) and it is green. Great to have it back.  Met the nice bass from the cathedral choir on the train. To mosaic and more painting for half an hour. Linda away next week. Ta'i chi - no session next week. Bus to St Paul's Clapham and met secretary and Deborah Matthews the vicar who is very nice. Had a good chat and liked the organ - a Forster and Andrews. Quite a few have applied! Did my practising and returned home. Liz had taken AnnMarie to dentist after attending the requiem at St Helen's. After dinner Colin picked me up for Catenian meeting - official Provi...

Served at 10.30 mass - Byrd 4 part Mass which we had at our wedding 38 years ago. Shortbread in hall with friends. Furious with Paul Moynihan - he is so rude! To Princess Diana playground to meet the family - Bruce and eventually Dennis and AnnMarie. To tea at Whiteleys and an autumnal walk across Kensington Gardens. Fabuolous cruise on the Thames with dinner, wine, singer and dancing all for £75 - living social deal reduction - wonderful views. The last time we saw Tower Bridge on TV David Beckham was carrying the torch in a speedboat. Fantastic! The lights at Greenwich need improving! Lovely cufflinks from Louise!

To Bexleyheath on trains and bus Geddes Hill URC for presentation and discussion on the shortage of organists especially young ones! Archdeacon made some good contributions. If all the area joins together for an event we might get somewhere! Then trains and tube to Southall - arrived early at St Anselm's. Bishop Alan dedicated plaque in memory of Br Daniel Faivre. I never met him but have some of his books. Alfred Agius, Jon dal Din, Michael Barnes also met the amazing Florence Murphy who is 90. MP and mayor there. Everyone had their say. I skipped the refreshments and got to vespers late. Fr Paolo at Mass with Scottish priest who sounded like John Bell from St Michael's school Finchley.

Did some work this morning and then to St George's Beckenham for recital by Jon Payne of St Thomas Stourbridge and RSCM music advisor (Central and East). Preferred the way he played Bach concerto 593 to Catherine Ennis's version on Tuesday. Much more contrast and subtlety and slow movement more reflective. Lovely Lloyd Webber Benedictus and Hesse variations on the National anthem. Coffee and cake in aid of Macmillan cancer. To Beckenham bookshop and bought calendars - Gruffalo family planner and Monet.  At Victoria to St Paul's bookshop and got diary and Advent calendar for Ciarán. To Church House bookshop and finally used my book token from Marie and Caroline to buy Rowan Williams' latest on Faith in the public square. Also got a nice Celtic calendar for Ann and Paul and posted it off and a copy of "Sharing Eden" for Miriam. I kept meeting people - Reuben, Kate, Miriam. To Marks for tea with Duncan to plan Catenian conference Mass next May! Served at 5.30 Mas...