Video: The Hidden Christian Faith of the Houses of Parliament

Jan 25th, 2026

Houses of Parliament: ICN/JS

In this new video, Father Patrick van der Vorst visits the Palace of Westminster to uncover the Christian imagination woven into one of the world's most iconic centres of power. Long before it became the seat of British democracy, this site was shaped by prayer, as a monastery and royal palace, revealing a vision of politics rooted in faith as much as in law.

Rebuilt after the fire of 1834 by Charles Barry and Augustus Welby Pugin, the Palace was deliberately designed in a neo-Gothic cathedral-like style rich with Christian symbolism. For Pugin, this was theology in stone: a reminder that all earthly power is ultimately always accountable to God. From prayers in Parliament to Big Ben's chime-"O Lord, be my guide"-the video reflects on faith, politics and the enduring truth that all power can only find its true meaning in the Cross of Christ.

Watch the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8U4NxnwZluw

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