Holy Week & Easter at Lichfield Cathedral

Are you curious about Christianity and wondering what Easter is all about? Lichfield Cathedral welcomes everyone—whether you're familiar with church services or completely new to it all—to experience Holy Week and Easter, the most significant time in the Christian calendar.

What is Holy Week and Easter?

Holy Week is a special journey that follows the final days of Jesus Christ's life. It begins with Palm Sunday, when Jesus entered Jerusalem to cheers and celebration, continues through his last meal with his disciples, his arrest, trial and crucifixion on Good Friday, and culminates with Easter Sunday—celebrating his resurrection.

This week helps Christians reflect on profound questions about life, death, and hope, it's about seeing how "God transforms betrayal, despair and death into faith, hope and life."

You're Always Welcome

This is "your, my, our Cathedral" where everyone is welcome. You don't need any previous experience with church services to attend.

Key Services You Might Consider

Starting Out

Palm Sunday (April 13, 10:00am) - Join the Palm Sunday Procession at 10:00am, where you'll follow a donkey through the city streets, waving palm crosses. It's a lively, community event that recreates Jesus's entry into Jerusalem.

Easter Day (April 20, 10:30am) - The Choral Eucharist service celebrates the resurrection of Jesus with joyful music and a sense of hope. This is the highlight of the Christian year.

Explore Further

Tenebrae (April 15, 7:30pm) - A beautiful service where the Cathedral Chamber Choir sings as the church gradually moves from light to darkness, and then light is restored—a powerful symbol of the Easter story.

Good Friday Liturgy (April 18, 12:00-3:00pm) - You can join for part or all of this contemplative service marking the hours Jesus hung on the cross.

Easter Vigil (April 19, 8:00pm) - Beginning in darkness and moving to light as the Paschal Candle is lit, this service dramatically tells the story of moving from death to new life.

Family Activities

If you're bringing children, the Cathedral offers special activities during the Easter holidays:

* Storytelling sessions with Bible stories (April 15, 16, and 22)

* Colouring activities related to sacred books (April 15-25)

Final Thoughts

As Dean Jan McFarlane writes, "If you've never attended services through Holy Week, you've missed not just beautiful music and moving readings but a chance to reflect on some of the deepest questions about death and life."

Lichfield Cathedral invites everyone to "journey with us as we learn" about this transformative story. No previous experience required—just an open mind and heart.

For more information, visit www.lichfield-cathedral.org or call 01543 306100.