Rupert Shortt in conversation with Ayaan Hirsi Ali.
Join us at Holy Trinity Church Sloane Square for a conversation with Rupert Shortt and Ayaan Hirsi Ali about Rupert’s new book “The Eclipse if Christianity and Why it Matters”.
There will be a talk by Rupert Shortt followed by a moderated conversation with Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a chance for audience questions and the opportunity to buy the book and have it signed by Rupert.
'Lucid, Brilliant, accessible. A must read'
Ayaan Hirsi AliThe mainstream Churches are faltering – or even at risk of dying out – in their Western and Middle Eastern heartlands. Surveys confirm that only a minority of people in a country such as Britain now claim Christian allegiance. The pattern is being matched in neighbouring societies.
At the same time many opinion formers preach secularist ideology with a self-confidence shading into dogmatism. Others, unsure of their moorings, feel some residual attachment to spirituality, while being sceptical about the existence of God and other articles of belief.
Yet church teaching remains intellectually robust, as well as inspiring a transformative global presence. In this major and wide-ranging international study – both a report on the unsettling consequences of secularisation and a defence of a creed too often belittled by its opponents – Rupert Shortt outlines Christianity’s fading profile in the present, but also argues compellingly that Europe’s historic faith remains critical to the survival of a humane culture.
Join Twickenham Choral for a moving performance of Maurice Duruflé's Requiem in the beautiful surroundings of Holy Trinity Sloane Square. Composed in 1947, this deeply spiritual work blends Gregorian chant with rich harmonies to create an atmosphere of serenity and hope. Unlike more dramatic settings of the Requiem Mass, Duruflé's version offers a message of peace and consolation.
The concert also includes a performance of Rob Fenton's Ave Verum and music from cellist Oliver Simpson.
Twickenham Choral is conducted by Howard Ionascu. The choir will be joined by acclaimed soloists Cathy Bell mezzo soprano and Alexander Hopkins baritone, and accompanied by organist Andrew Lumsden.
Interstellar Organist Roger Sayer returns to Holy Trinity to play the original Hans Zimmer soundtrack, as well as music from other Sci-Fi films.
Read MoreSloane Square Choral Society
Now available! Christmas Concert 2025 tickets at this link (and also at the door on the night. Book Here
SSCS is delighted to invite you to our Christmas Concert 2025 on Sunday 7 December at 6pm, directed by Oliver Lallemant. The programme is Edward Elgar's The Music Makers. SSCS is always looking for even more members to be a part of our wonderfully fun and engaging choir. There's no audition; we welcome everyone. Email admin@sloanesquarechoralsociety.com for details – or just turn up at any of our rehearsals which are on Mondays 7pm–8.30 between 15 September and 1 December (except 27 October).