Dr Emily Guerry

I don't think I've ever waited for an encyclical with as much anticipation as this one. It seems incredibly urgent - and it feels like Leo XIV is the man of the moment to call out this attack on human dignity, just as John Paul II was the man of the moment to confront Communism.

The sci-fi look of the Towers of Bologna , Italy

Mappa Mundi in the margin BnF MS Latin 4798; Strabo, Geographica (Guarinus Veronensis interpres); 14th century (towards 1470); Florence; f.3v @GallicaBnF

The 'Hand of St James' medieval relic (carbon dated to between AD 994-1150) and rediscovered in 1786 on the site of Reading Abbey by workmen constructing the new Reading gaol. 📸2021

Big milestone for me today: I have submitted my final piece of embroidery for my Diploma at @RoyalNeedlework . This is my Whitework (Broderie Anglaise & Richelieu), inspired by medieval manuscript illumination.

I continue to be excited about the Bayeux Tapestry

A pilgrim's scallop shell found with a burial at Whitby Abbey cemetery, 14th-15th century. Displayed at Whitby Abbey Museum. 📸2026

Astonishingly, Cardiff University is adding insult to injury in its cuts by closing their Humanities library with a three-week notice. Do sign the petition against it: you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save… via @38degrees

In the 1960s, Llantrisant Old Church on Anglesey was a roofless shell. This medieval structure had fallen into a state of disrepair after decades of effective abandonment, however, it was eventually saved. 1/10

Cursed is he who moveth his neighbour’s landmark! ❌📍 Following our Choral Eucharist for Ascension Day, we upheld the ancient tradition of Beating the Bounds. We walked the parish boundaries with sticks and wands, stopping for prayers and to support our local pubs.

The historic churches in our care require routine and periodic maintenance. Accordingly, we are looking for a new part-time Estate Officer to ensure that such maintenance is undertaken both efficiently and effectively. 📷 Repairs at St Mary's, Eastwell, Kent

A Roman history project in which I'm a participant figures in the recent judgement about cancellation of National Endowment for Humanities grants by DOGE.

Join a curator talk for "Gothic by Design: The Dawn of Architectural Draftsmanship!" Explore the vision, imagination, and skillful artistry embedded in the carefully drawn plans of medieval architects and other artists of the day. The rare presentation of more than 90 works of art—drawings and prints alongside goldsmith works, architectural elements, sculpture, and painting—sheds new light on the artistic choices and expansive knowledge that informed the Gothic building practice. 🗓️ Thursday, May 28 🕰️ 3 p.m. 🎟️ Get tickets → met.org/42ZKf1Q ——— ✏️ Attributed to Erwin von Steinbach (German, born Upper Rhine region, died 1318), Partially after Master Rudolph the Elder (German, died 1276), "Partial Elevation of the Facade of Strasbourg Cathedral (Drawing A’)," ca. 1260–70. Pen and brown ink on parchment. Fondation de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame, in custody of Musée de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame, Strasbourg.

Shrine of St Bertram, Ilam (Staffordshire). Note the prayer requests left by pilgrims. 📸2023

Over the course of 2025, we sensitively restored St Deiniol's church in Worthenbury, which is undoubtedly one of the finest Georgian churches in all of Wales. 1/7

It’s literally God’s oldest rule not to do this.

This marvellous receptacle contains a hat reputedly worn by Cardinal Wolsey. Discovered by Bishop Burnet, bought by Horace Walpole, it was owned until 1868 by the actor Charles Kean who wore it on stage.

Feel like the Bible is quite explicit on this one

This is a German reliquary shaped like a three-legged fish from approximately 900-1350 CE.

Some fine books in Hereford