Boy Bishop, Thomas Nichols, on his cathedra or bishop's seat.
The ancient monastic ceremony of the Boy-Bishop was restored at
Wymondham Abbey on Sunday 8th December 2002 after a break of several hundred
years. Thomas Nichols was chosen from the Abbey Choir to be the Boy-Bishop. He
was dressed in bishop's robes and took most of the 6.30pm Evensong service
including preaching the Sermon. After the service he gave presents to children
at the service and welcomed everyone to the refreshments provided.
Historically, near the feast of Saint Nicholas on 6th December, a boy would be
chosen from the Abbey choir to be Bishop or Abbot for a season. He would have
authority over all the monastery and would lead some parts of the services.
There would be presents for children and a feast for everyone. The ceremony was
designed to show that we must all be as children before God, we are all equal,
God has no favourites. The ceremony was held on or near Saint Nicholas' Day
because he is the Patron Saint of children, especially those who sing in a
choir.
The custom was abolished by King Henry VIII in 1512 , restored by Queen Mary and
again abolished by Queen Elizabeth I. In more recent years it has been revived
in Hereford Cathedral and Salisbury Cathedral and at some churches dedicated to
Saint Nicholas.