‘Stunning’ preacher for Harry and Meghan
A LEADING Anglican cleric and renowned preacher is being flown in from America by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to give the sermon at their wedding.
Chicago-born Bishop Michael Curry is the first African American to head the Episcopal Church, the US equivalent of the Church of England.
He is known for his galvanising preaching style and inspirational turn of phrase, declaring, ‘God didn’t put you on this earth just to use up oxygen!’ and, ‘If you’re breathing, God’s calling.’
He was asked to preach after discussions with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who will officiate over the couple’s exchange of vows on Saturday.
An outspoken critic of Donald Trump, Bishop Curry has criticised the US President on issues such as racial equality and health care. He said: ‘The love that has brought and will bind Prince Harry and Meghan Markle together has its source and origin in God and is the key to life and happiness. And so we celebrate and pray for them.’
A spokesman for Kensington Palace said: ‘It was felt that given the fact that he is the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church as well as a wonderful speaker and preacher, it would be highly appropriate for him to be invited to speak.’
The spokesman added that the bishop ‘is not personally known’ to either the Prince or Meghan but it is believed he will meet them before the ceremony.
Bishop Curry, 65, is married and has two grown-up daughters.
His preaching style will contrast with that of the more traditional former Bishop of London, Richard Chartres, a close friend of Prince Charles, who spoke at the wedding of Prince William and Kate in 2011.
Archbishop Justin Welby tweeted: ‘I’m thrilled that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have asked Bishop Michael Curry to preach at their wedding. @PB_Curry is a brilliant pastor, stunning preacher and someone with a great gift for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.’