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So Who Was That Guy Turning Cartwheels Inside Westminster Abbey?

So Who Was That Guy Turning Cartwheels Inside Westminster Abbey?

"Sheer exuberance."

Meredith put one version of the video on our blog yesterday -- that's here.

A few additional notes today.  Especially now that I understand the term "verger."

First let's take a look at another version of the video in case you haven't seen it:

Here's how the Daily Mail described it:

The relief of getting the wedding out of the way was etched not just on the faces of the people involved but also in the actions of one of the clergymen.

Verger Ben Sheward decided that after the majority of the guests had gone he would do some acrobatics and cartwheeled down the aisle at Westminster Abbey.

The joy of the nation was summed up in his actions caught on camera as ITV continued to film what was going on inside the abbey to millions of people watching worldwide.

So here is a replay with some of the commentary by ITV:

And for the record, here is the Wikipedia definition of "verger":

A verger (or virger, so called after the staff of the office, Latin virga = twig, rod) is a person, usually a layman, who assists in the ordering of religious services, particularly in Anglican churches.

The Office of the Verger has its roots in the early days of the Church of England's history. The Order shares certain similarities with the former Minor Orders of Porter and Acolyte. Historically Vergers were responsible for the order and upkeep of the house of worship, including the care of the church buildings, its furnishings, and sacred relics, preparations for liturgy, conduct of the laity, and grave-digging responsibilities.

I did find one 2008 photo of Ben:

But he will now be forever remembered for this way:

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