Clergyman in Robe Regrets Actions After Halting Choir's Church Performance: 'This is My Domain'
In an unexpected turn of events, Bishop Jonathan Baker of Fulham made a late-night appearance at St Andrew's Church in Holborn, London, causing quite a stir during a choir concert on August 4, 2025.
Bishop Baker, barefoot and dressed in a dressing gown, unexpectedly took the stage during the concert, interrupting the performance of the choir, The City Academy Voices. The choir, who were about to perform their final song, 'I'm Gonna Make You Love Me' by The Supremes, were left stunned as the bishop ordered everyone to leave, citing the late hour and the noise as a "terrible racket" in his house.
The abrupt ending drew boos from the audience and widespread social media attention. A video of the incident, which shows Bishop Baker addressing the choir and audience, was published on TikTok. In the video, the bishop can be heard saying, "You are in my house and that's it, it's gone past 10 and this is a terrible racket. Goodnight."
Leigh Stanford Thompson, the choir director, found the incident bizarre and unprecedented. The choir's spokesperson, however, responded that no hard feelings were held and invited potential members to join the choir, rehearsing on Mondays in central London.
Following the incident, Bishop Baker issued a formal apology, expressing regret for the premature ending and any distress caused. He assured that such an event would not recur and reaffirmed the choir's welcome to continue using the space. A spokesperson for the diocese of London also apologized for the bishop's late-night appearance at the concert.
The concert, which had a large attendance of around 300-360 people, was not without its share of fun. After the bishop's sudden departure, the choir burst into an a cappella rendition of ABBA's 'Dancing Queen'. Audience members joined in, clapping and dancing along during the impromptu performance.
The choir group, The City Academy Voices, have since moved forward, inviting the public to join them in their musical journey, rehearsals for which are held in central London, dressing gowns optional.
The unexpected incident at St Andrew's Church on August 4, 2025, resulting in the abrupt ending of The City Academy Voices' concert, generated widespread social media attention, with a viral TikTok video capturing Bishop Baker's unconventional entertainment during the event. Later, Bishop Baker expressed regret for the premature conclusion and any distress caused, acknowledging that the incident was out of the ordinary.
