This Sunday, “Songs of Praise” turns its attention to one of the most recognizable and recited prayers in the world: The Lord’s Prayer. Presenter Sean Fletcher visits Ripon College Cuddesdon, a theological training college near Oxford, to explore the prayer’s enduring power and its relevance in the 21st century.
Fletcher’s investigation takes him to the heart of Christian belief, examining the meaning behind each line of the prayer. He’s joined by theologian Dr. Paula Gooder, who offers expert insight into the historical context of Jesus’ words and why they continue to resonate with Christians globally. Students from Ripon College share their individual connections to the prayer, highlighting the lines that hold particular significance for them.
“Songs of Praise” often weaves together music and reflection, and this episode is no exception. Viewers will hear a rendition of The Lord’s Prayer in Syriac, a language closely related to the one spoken by Jesus, offering a unique perspective on this familiar text. The renowned boys’ choir Libera also contributes a performance, recorded in the serene setting of the Ripon College chapel.
Adding a poignant dimension to the program is the story of Dr. Mark Prince. He’ll discuss how the prayer’s emphasis on forgiveness helped him cope with the unimaginable grief of his son’s murder and how his faith fuels his work with young people. It’s a story of finding strength in spirituality amidst profound loss.
“Songs of Praise: The Lord’s Prayer” airs Sunday, March 9th at 11:30 AM on BBC One.
