Southwark Cathedral criticised for hosting scantily clad London Fashion Week show described as ‘antithesis of Christian gospel’

Sep 18, 2019 by Jill

by Jack Hardy and Gabriella Swerling, The Telegraph:

Southwark Cathedral has been accused of promoting the “antithesis of the Christian gospel” by allowing its nave to be used as a catwalk to sell clothes.

British designer Julien MacDonald brought his collection to the place of worship on Monday night as part of London Fashion Week, turning the aisle into a parade of scantily dressed models.

It was described by the 48-year-old British designer as a “celebration of women” and attracted celebrity guests including the actor Ed Westwick and socialite Lady Victoria Hervey.

However, a leading Anglican clergyman has questioned whether the cathedral should be “giving a platform” to an event which promotes “a narcissistic self-referential display for the very rich”.

High-profile catwalk shows are big money-spinners for fashion houses which build the reputation of designers and cement their links with wealthy and influential customers.

Last night, Rev Dr Gavin Ashenden, the former chaplain to the Queen, urged the diocese “think twice” about whether its holy buildings were being used in a manner fitting for a faith that renounces materialism.

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Read also: Bishops in Bully Pulpit: Get Naked in Cathedrals but Mind your Language in Parliament, by Jules Gomes, Rebel Priest

Roll up, roll up for crazy cathedral capers, by Alan Ashworth, The Conservative Woman

CATHEDRAL GIMMICKS: NEWS AND COMMENT: collection of articles