Modern-Day Interpretation of the Holy Family

Modern-Day Interpretation of the Holy Family at Lichfield Cathedral

This year as part of the Advent and Christmas services and events, a specially-designed modern interpretation of the Holy Family will be on display in the Lady Chapel of Lichfield Cathedral from 16 December until Candlemas (2nd February). The modern-day interpretation features members of the Cathedral staff team dressed in Lichfield Cathedral’s interpretation of what the Holy Family might look like today, and will stand near to the traditional crib scene.

Gathered on a building site, outside a hospital building we see Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus in arms, standing in front of a small fire pit. Visitors to the scene include construction workers as the modern-day equivalent to the shepherds, and the magi are business people and academics. The angels use music, and modern-day communications tools like phones and email to tell the story of the wonderful birth.

In large words above the scene – almost written in the sky next to the lamppost/star is: “And the Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighbourhood,” from John 1: 14 in the Message translation of the Bible.

The, Dean of Lichfield, the Rt Revd Jan McFarlane  said: “We want to help visitors to Lichfield Cathedral this Christmas to find their place in the Christmas story and to understand that the birth of Jesus is as relevant for us today as it was to those who were the first witnesses to his birth, over 2000 years ago.”

The Holy Family will be on display from Monday 16 December until Candlemas on 2 February, which marks the end of the Christmas period. To find out more about what’s happening during Advent & Christmas at Lichfield Cathedral visit: www.lichfield-cathedral.org/advent