In the ancient ruins of Oxyrhynchus, Egypt, archaeologists unearthed a papyrus scrap containing the earliest known Christian hymn, complete with both its lyrics and musical notation.
Analyzed at Oxford University, this discovery challenges traditional views of church history by revealing the rich musical practices of early believers. Hosted by Australian historian John Dickson, the feature-length documentary “The First Hymn” chronicles the hymn’s journey from its desert origins to its modern resurrection, as acclaimed composers Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding transform the ancient melody into a contemporary worship piece, culminating in a live concert performance.
About the event
Wycliffe Hall has set itself the modest task of fostering a New Renaissance of Christian scholarship, leadership and culture. As both a Christian community and a Permanent Private Hall of the University of Oxford, we want to see transformational scholarship, leadership and culture, born out of Christian community, offering the truth, beauty and goodness of the gospel to the world.
To find up more about the New Renaissance Project and related events and activities, please visit our webpage and sign up for email alerts: Wycliffe's New Renaissance Project continues growing | WYCLIFFE HALL
Event details
Date: Friday 28th November 2025
Time: To start promptly at 6pm
Venue: Curzon Cinema, Westgate Centre, Oxford, OX1 1NZ
Getting here: Nearby parking: Curzon Oxford is located in the Westgate Shopping Centre where there is ample underground parking.The Westgate Centre is also on most major bus routes, and walking distance from Oxford train station.
Photography and filming: This event will include photography and filming: please contact us directly if you have any questions about this: conferences@wycliffe.ox.ac.uk.
All are welcome: the event is open to the public and free to attend, but you must have a ticket.
Curzon Cinema has been hired as the venue for this event and this is not part of the Curzon programme. They are not involved in the ticketing or content of the screening.
