Shining a light on outstanding effort and dedication: A significant award for Chapter of York Canon Linda Ali

Canon Linda Ali, a member of the Chapter of York, the governing body for York Minster, was last week presented with the Canterbury Cross by the Archbishop of Canterbury

Canon Linda Ali, a member of the Chapter of York, the governing body for York Minster, was last week presented with the Canterbury Cross by the Archbishop of Canterbury, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, at the Lambeth Awards ceremony for Services to the Church of England. Linda was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the cause of Racial Justice in society and in the Church of England over 25 years.
 
The 33 award-winners included people from the Church of England, the wider Anglican Communion, a mix of other denominations and people who have no faith. This year’s recipients included poets, educators, activists, clergy, peacemakers as well as many unsung people who have dedicated their working lives to the promotion of faith and in the service of God’s witness.  The recipients work all over the world including New Zealand, Egypt, Russia, Italy, Australia, the USA and the Solomon Islands and the UK. 
 
Speaking last week, The Archbishop said:  “We live in a troubled world, where all around us we see conflict, war, discrimination, division, poverty and deep inequality, but our faith in Jesus gives us hope.  We see that hope exemplified in the wonderful service of the people we have recognised today.” 
 
“Many of the people who have received awards have worked unseen and unsung, striving for justice, peace, reconciliation, advances in education, worship and prayer.  Not all are followers of Jesus Christ, but, through their endeavours, they have made significant contributions to the mutual respect and maintenance of human dignity, which is so vital to spiritual and social health and the flourishing of mankind.  The Lambeth Awards shine a light on their outstanding efforts and dedication.”
Canon Linda said:  "I was absolutely surprised to receive the news that I was to be presented with this award. I can only say that I would be hugely grateful to the kind and generous person who thought I was deserving of such a special award and nominated me to receive it.  The ceremony at Lambeth Palace was a wonderful occasion, on a warm sunny day, meeting the other 33 recipients and their guests, to be presented with the Canterbury Cross by Archbishop Justin and to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea afterwards.  The afternoon ended as it should with evening prayer to thank God for his abundance of goodness he has bestowed on us all."