Southwark Cathedral is first and foremost a community of people who worship God. It also has a rich history and significant artistic heritage; for around 1,400 years a religious building has stood on this site, and much of the present building dates from the 12th and 13th centuries.

Fine examples of the Southwark School of Stonemasonry can be found here, as well as beautiful glass, enamelwork and statuary added during the restoration and refurnishing of the 19th/early 20th century.

The ancient office of Compline derives its name from a Latin word meaning ‘completion’ (completorium). It is above all a service of quietness and reflection before rest at the end of the day. It is most effective when the ending is indeed an ending, without additions, conversation or noise. If there is an address, or business to be done, it should come first. If the service is in church, those present depart in silence; if at home, they go quietly to bed.

The Shadow of Thy Wings - Music for Compline CD by the Cathedral Merbecke Choir.