Rowan Williams Accepts the Campion Award

On January 25 Rowan Williams, the archbishop of Canterbury, accepted the 2009 Campion Award from the editors of America. A renowned scholar, theologian, ecumenist, pastor, professor and poet, Archbishop Williams is the author of more than a score of books. In his remarks upon accepting award, he dilated on the idea of a “martyrial ecumenism,” mused on the surprising links between Shakespeare and St. Edmund Campion and emphasized the central place of forgiveness in all relationships. Drew Christiansen, S.J, the editor in chief of America, introduced the archbishop,

and literary editor Patricia A. Kossmann presented Williams with the award.

The Campion award is given on a regular basis to a notable Christian person of letters. It is named after St. Edmund Campion, S.J., an English writer and martyr who is honored in both the Anglican and Catholic traditions. For more coverage of this year’s award ceremony visit our Campion Web page.