Rev Nicky Gumbel, developer of the Alpha Course, and formerly vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton church, has been recognised with a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) “for services to the Church of England”.

“Hugely grateful to HM The King for his encouraging words and CBE award, which I joyfully accepted on behalf of HTB church and for his many memorable visits to support us, St Mellitus College, our church planting, refugee & persecuted church ministries”, said Gumbel on his social media.

Once someone accepts an honour and it has been announced in The London Gazette and published at government's website, they are invited to an investiture by the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood; a department within the Royal Household.

Investiture of CBE

An investiture is the formal ceremony, where the recipient of an award receives their Insignia in person from the King or a member of the Royal Family. Investitures usually take place at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle or the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The CBE is the highest ranking Order of the British Empire level (excluding a knighthood/damehood), followed by OBE (Office) and then MBE (Member).

An individual may be appointed a CBE “for having a prominent role at national level, or a leading role at regional level. The honour may also be conferred for a distinguished and innovative contribution to any area”.

Nicky Gumbel

Nicholas Glyn Paul Gumbel is an English Anglican priest and author. He is known as the developer of the Alpha Course, a basic introduction to Christianity supported by churches of many Christian traditions. The course has been used in many countries around the world and translated to many languages to evangelise people who have expressed an interest in the Christian faith.

Nicky Gumbel was vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton in the Diocese of London (Church of England) from 2005 to 2022.