Yes, we really are a broad Church.
The loyalties of St Stephen’s Cathedral were tested when the English rugby union team turned up unannounced for a training run on the day before their clash with the Wallabies in Brisbane.
Coach Eddie Jones wanted to get his men out of their hotel for a light run. He didn’t want to organise a bus to a training ground, so he decided the open Cathedral grounds across from the team hotel were just right.
The backs ran drills beside St Stephen’s Chapel while the forwards practised lineouts behind the Cathedral.
The team enjoyed it so much they returned the next day, this time with the blessing of Cathedral priest Fr David Pascoe.
They didn’t stop long for prayers – some players ventured into the Cathedral and at least one team official made a generous donation to the Cathedral.
The visit hasn’t hurt England’s chances.
They go into Saturday night’s final match against the Wallabies in search of a clean sweep after victories in Brisbane and Melbourne.
The Wallabies have never been swept by the English. Rest assured staff in the Cathedral precinct are praying for luck to turn for the Wallabies.