Cathedrals at Night Returns
In August 2020 Lichfield Cathedral hosted a Cathedrals at Night event as part of national initiative by the Association of English Cathedrals. The Cathedral was open for people to drop-in between particular hours of the evening to explore the space and spend time in reflection. The event proved very popular with many reporting that they enjoyed the relaxed, calm atmosphere created.
During the Advent period Lichfield Cathedral will be hosting 3 more of these open evenings, each with a unique theme. Each evening the Cathedral will be open from 19:00-21:00 with a short Compline at 20:45. The events will not be ticketed but volunteers will be on hand to control the flow of people into the space and ensure the events are safe for everyone.
The Very Revd Adrian Dorber explains, “Our hope is that people feel able to come and go as they wish, engaging with the space and the themes for each evening. The Cathedral will be kept quiet with gentle music played in the background and each evening offers a different focus for our prayers and reflections.”
On Sunday 13 December 19:00-21:00 the theme of the open evening is: Light in the Darkness – a Vigil for all facing a difficult Christmas. It will be a time to name hurts, losses and sadness silently before God, to pray for light and peace for ourselves, our loved ones and families. There will be an opportunity to have a lantern lit in memory of a loved one and to write names on a bauble to hand on the Christmas tree.
Monday 14 December 19:00-21:00 people will have an opportunity to attend Meditation at the Manger, a chance to meditate on the centre of the Christmas story: Jesus - the one, who came to us vulnerable as a baby. It is an occasion to share your deepest loves, needs, and hope and know Jesus’ peace, and the reassurance of the hope he offers.
Out of Bethlehem – A Cry on Tuesday 15 December 19:00-21:00 is a vigil of reflection and support for today’s people of Bethlehem. A quiet time to contemplate the modern-day struggles of those living in Bethlehem, to stand alongside them, pray for them and offer a sign of hope to those marginalised and separated from their families.
Dorber concludes: “We welcome all to come along, even for a short while, to deepen their understanding and take some time in the busyness of December to pray.”
Details of these events and other services planned during the Advent & Christmas period can be found here: www.lichfield-cathedral.org/advent