William Canynges II
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Merchant benefactor
The tomb and effigy of William Canynges the Younger (1399 – 1474) lie in the south transept of the church. The elaborate coloured tomb demonstrates a successful, wealthy man, whilst the plain alabaster effigy is in priestly robes.
One of Bristol’s most successful medieval merchants, by 1461 Canynges had a fleet of nine ships crewed by 800 sailors. In an extraordinary career he was an MP, five times Mayor of Bristol and, after the death of his wife, took holy orders as a priest. Canynges said his first Mass in St Mary Redcliffe on Whitsunday 17 May 1468.
The scale and brilliance of the present church are said to be largely due to this generous benefactor. To this day, one of the main charities that supports the care and embellishment of the church bears his name: the Canynges Society.
The church has many merchant marks (medieval corporate logos) reminding us of the generosity of Canynges and others whose gifts enabled this wonderful building to be built to the glory of God.
Read a detailed biography of Canynges below
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Preached by Canon Dr Stephen Spencer
Preached by Canon Dr Stephen Spencer
Last Sunday marked the end of another choir term—and what a term it has been! We've welcomed new choristers, learnt plenty of exciting music, sung for some wonderful liturgies, and eaten what can only be described as a significant amount of biscuits. The day began with a very special visit from Sing Start! , who joined us for the Eucharist. Together we sang Litany of the Holy Spirit and Joanna Forbes L'Estrange's St Helen's Mass. A huge thank you to Helena from Children's Church for organising ice creams afterwards—a thoroughly appreciated post-service treat! We're also delighted that a large number of Sing Start! children will be joining our regular treble lines from September. This is tremendously exciting, not only for the choir's future growth but also for the long-term strength and sustainability of our music-making at SMR. In the evening, we gathered for a special service celebrating the composer Charles Wood, marking 100 years since his death. It was a fitting tribute to one of the great figures of Anglican church music—but the occasion was also notable for another reason. Several of our own choir members stepped into new musical roles and showcased talents beyond their usual singing duties. Our Head Chorister conducted the introit, one of the back-row singers composed the psalm chant, and our Corner Chorister wrote the organ voluntary. It's wonderful to see so much creativity and musicianship flourishing within the choir. The final service of the year was followed by the all-important choir party: pizza and a screening of Sister Act. Judging by the enthusiastic reaction afterwards, there is now considerable demand for I Will Follow Him to appear in a future service. We make no promises—but do keep an eye on next year's music lists... The choir is now taking a well-earned summer break, but music certainly won't stop at SMR. Sunday morning Masses will continue with a cantor leading the music, and we're looking forward to welcoming several excellent visiting choirs over the coming weeks, including St Andrew's Backwell, St Mary's Ross-on-Wye, and the Handful Chamber Choir. Our regular choir returns on Sunday 13 September, refreshed, recharged, and ready for another exciting year of music. Have a wonderful summer, and thank you to all our choristers, families, volunteers, and supporters for another fantastic year.
Preached by Canon Dr Stephen Spencer
Preached by the Revd Dr Brutus Green
Preached by the Revd Dr Brutus Green
