Across

1 In sculpted pieta, Christ aka the creator of atonement (8)

5 Flatter chaplain raving about worship leaders’ overtures (5)

9 Senior cleric, demure, had a meal (7)

10 With a twist, Thanksgiving in Paris is hosted by the dry and continent! (7)

11 Moral offence about a point probed by noble who wanted chastity but not yet (5,9)

13 Council that’s principally concerned with books? (5)

15 I’m suffering setback with doctor’s new hallucinogenic tablets (9)

18 They grow like a cedar and one is seen in mystical connection (away from North East) (9)

19 Something like incense starts to envelop lot expecting mass imminently (5)

20 What bishop uses on solemn occasions, cathedra mostly with no noise involved (8,6)

25 Poem recalled small child ­— one from ancient Dead Sea region (7)

26 Angel transformed the heart of London, an Anglican stronghold? (7)

27/28 Briefly worry about study partner’s new appointment (5,8)

Down

1 Public display of ex officio being marked with Chi-Rho (4)

2 Collection of stamps and foreign letter covers not so long ago (9)

3 Once more Archbishop giggles at installation: nervous at first! (5)

4 Warmly welcoming refurbished promenade (4-5)

5 Cantonese shifting earth and bit of soil to get building material (4-5)

6 Trimmed vestment taken to Italy for friends in Rome (5)

7 Dominion Persia held post-Revolution (10)

8 Stay behind to welcome new archbishop? (4)

12 Impassive attitude from holy figure, top aboard one ship (10)

14 The vicar’s upset a male member of royal family (9)

16 Unconventional curate retaining love at home for liqueur (9)

17 A whole congregation eg, including a cricket side, upset dean completely (3,3,3)

21 Smell (of sanctity?) that’s peculiar, almost acidic, with no trace of sweetness (5)

22 Change abbreviated ending to prayer (4)

23 Grand to be enthralled by authentic small organ (5)

24 Irritable editor, heartless fellow (4)

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