The funeral for the late Rt Revd Andrew Watson will be held on Monday 23 March at 12noon.
On this page, you can find further information about the funeral. Please make use of the FAQ listings below:
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The funeral of Bishop Andrew-FAQs
Funeral FAQs
How many people will be able to attend?
Guildford Cathedral has a seated capacity of 1,100. We anticipate that this capacity will be reached with invited guests. The Cathedral will be in touch directly in the days ahead with those to whom seats will be allocated.
When are you sharing the live stream link?
The live stream will be shared as soon as possible and included on our website and social media. It will also be on the Guildford Cathedral Facebook Page and YouTube.
Where can I watch the funeral?
The following churches in our diocese will be streaming the service and offering hospitality:-
- Christ Church, Woking
- St. Paul's Church Howell Hill, Ewell
- St Andrew’s Church, Cobham
- St. John's Church Egham
- Holy Trinity Church, Claygate
- St. Paul's Church, Dorking
- St.Nicolas’ Church, Cranleigh
- Church on The Heath, Fleet
- St. Peter and St Paul’s Church, Godalming
- St. Andrew’s Church, Farnham
- St. Paul's Church, Camberley
- St Nicolas’ Church, Guildford
Where can I access the Order of Service including the liturgy?
This will be shared shortly and updated on ours and the Cathedral’s website.
Who is preaching?
The Rt Revd Paul Davies, Bishop of Dorking, is presiding and Rt Revd Pete Wilcox, Bishop of Sheffield is preaching. Bishop Pete is a long-time friend of the late Bishop Andrew Watson.
Will there be a vigil the night before the funeral?
There is no vigil planned ahead of the funeral, however people are welcome to continue to visit the Cathedral to pray, reflect and light a candle in remembrance. The Book of Condolence is also still available to sign as is the online book.
Where can I park if I’m attending?
Parking at the Cathedral is extremely limited and it will be strictly controlled. On-site parking will be reserved for those with mobility difficulties and individuals who have been specifically allocated a space by the Cathedral team.
The car park will be managed by parking stewards and access will not be permitted without prior authorisation.
We strongly encourage the use of public transport, car sharing, or nearby public car parks.
Further information about travel arrangements will be provided with invitations.
Will the Archbishop of Canterbury attend?
We won’t comment on individual attendance, but Church of England bishops will be invited.
Can I leave floral tributes?
Bishop Andrew requested donations to the Cathedral in lieu of flowers. People are also very welcome to sign the physical Book of Condolence or the online book as well as donate to the Cathedral mission and ministry.
What time should I arrive to take my seat?
For those who are invited to attend, the Cathedral team will be in direct contact with you to advise on specific details and timings.
Will there be somewhere for me to robe (for clergy, canons, etc.)?
Direct communications regarding robing will be sent to those attending where relevant.
Where will Bishop Andrew be buried?
That information will be communicated at the appropriate time.
Will filming and photography be permitted?
Out of respect for the family and other mourners, we ask that those attending do not use mobile phones, take photographs or film during the service.
Please also note it is not permitted to take photos or videos of the Cathedral choir at any time during the service. We encourage everyone to participate fully in the service and if you wish, watch the live stream afterwards.