Rough Talks by a Padre

Join us as we delve into the life and experiences of Geoffrey Anketell Studdert Kennedy MC, an esteemed Anglican priest who bravely served as a chaplain on the front lines during World War I. Known affectionately as Woodbine Willie, Studdert Kennedy was renowned for his commitment to the soldiers, offering not only spiritual support but also comfort in the form of cigarettes, all while facing the horrors of war head-on. Awarded the Military Cross for his extraordinary courage at Messines Ridge, he selflessly ventured into no-mans land to aid the wounded, embodying the spirit of compassion amid chaos. His book, Rough Talks of a Padre, is a collection of engaging lectures delivered to officers and men across France, reflecting his journey of balancing moral and pastoral leadership with the harsh realities of military life. As he candidly notes in the foreword, these talks are informal and conversational, providing a unique glimpse into his thoughts on survival and faith in the trenches.