Issue 48 AUG 25 web - Flipbook - Page 98
of-hearing users to listen to services via a smartphone app.
Given cabling constraints, a traditional hearing induction
loop would not have been possible, and the choice of
the MobileConnect system gives Saint Michael’s Abbey
a modern, scalable alternative. A combination of
Sennheiser gooseneck microphones and an Audio
Technica boundary mic for the high altar ensures crystalclear speech pick-up. Bespoke T-bar brackets at the
lectern and pulpit ensure that not even the microphones
detract from the elegance of the worship space.
finally, to reach those who might be looking for a vocation
within a monastery and allow them to watch from a
distance to give them a flavour of the place.”
The broadcast system is based on Blackmagic Design
hardware and an Epiphan Pearl Nano streaming solution,
which allows for the encoding of various sources and
outputs directly to the desired channels or displays. To
maximise the technology and save on additional
resources, Whitwam AVI proposed incorporating the
broadcast cameras into the CCTV system. Using Antrica
video encoders, the Abbey’s camera footage is sent
directly to a HikVision NVR, which allows for smart monitoring of activity both within the Abbey and the wider
monastery buildings. For video distribution, a networked
solution via Lightware VINX encoders and decoders
enables CCTV multi-view on an NEC 32” Large Format
Display in key locations, such as the Abbot’s office.
Everyday user control is streamlined thanks to the
integration of audio and video technology with a Crestron
control system. A wall-mounted Crestron touchscreen
allows for easy system control and microphone selection.
One of the key requirements was for Saint Michael’s to
have the tools to stream its services online on platforms
such as YouTube, as well as allow for events such as
weddings to be shared with an extended audience.
“We set up a preset so as soon as the cameras are turned
off at the end of the day or after a service, CCTV mode
is activated,” explains Clarke. “Incorporating the broadcast cameras into a CCTV system saves Saint Michael’s
time and money and limits the impact on the fabric of the
building by not needing additional security cameras.”
“As a Benedictine monastery, we have many different
practices or ‘offices’ each day, and there are friends and
family of the community around the world, who would
like to participate in some way with our life here at the
Abbey,” says Father Abbot of St. Michael’s. “We wanted
to connect with our community through broadcasting our
services and make Sunday Mass available to a wider
audience for several reasons. Firstly, to enable those far
away to participate, secondly, for intellectual access and
Looking to the future, Whitwam AVI will remain on
hand to serve the Abbey’s evolving needs. Ray and the
team are the first port of call for support requests through
a preventative maintenance contract, covering all AV
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