As we approach the end of 2023, we're reflecting upon some of the many special moments which took place at our Cathedral this year.
Do you have any photos you'd like to share? Feel free to reach out to us at info@chichestercathedral.org.uk.
Wishing you a joyful New Year from everyone at Chichester Cathedral.
January
We began the year by saying goodbye to the Very Reverend Stephen Waine, his wife Lizzie and their family, as they embark on a new journey within the Diocese of Salisbury. Stephen was appointed as the Dean of Chichester in 2015.
February
In February we welcomed internationally exhibited artist Anne Grebby, who joined us for a three month residency creating a painted triptych, depicting the Baptism of Christ. Visitors to the Cathedral were able to see Anne at work, and during occasions, speak to her directly about her creative practice.
March
Spring saw the new Cloisters Kitchen & Garden open, located within the Cathedral’s 600 year-old Cloisters. To mark the auspicious occasion the Mayor of Chichester, Councillor Julian Joy, was joined by the then Acting Dean of Chichester, The Right Reverend Graeme Knowles, to cut a ribbon across the Café threshold.
April
During April The Chichester Peregrines patiently looked after their three eggs until they hatched on 3rd May, two males (AN and AP) and one female (AL). You can watch the season's livestreams by clicking here>>
May
May saw the country gather to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. We joined forces with Chichester BID to broadcast the ceremony at Westminster Abbey on the picturesque Cathedral Green as well as our own service in celebration of His Majesty led by The Bishop of Chichester, The Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner. Despite the rain, local residents took part in a range of activities delivered by local partners.
June
In June we opened our summer exhibition, Resilience in Clay, a collection of sculptural works by artist Kate Viner. The exhibition comprised seven sculptural portraits. Each of the subjects connected by the fact that they are building a new life in Chichester, some having found refuge from persecution based on conflict and religious, social and or ethnic discrimination.
July
In July we partnered with the British Pilgrimage Trust to launch Paws on Pilgrimage, a new dog-friendly self guided walking route from, beginning outside Bosham’s Holy Trinity Church and taking place over around 4.5 miles, finishing at the Cathedral, after opening our doors to dogs in May.
August
August saw the Cathedral Council, who have supported the life of Chichester Cathedral, reviewing and advising upon the direction and oversight of the work of the Chapter, disband after twenty years of service as we transition to the new 2021 Cathedrals Measure. We thank members of the Cathedral Council for their contribution to the life of the Cathedral.
September
In September the new Chichester Workshop for Liturgical Art was blessed by The Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, The Right Reverend Richard Moth, at an event in South Harting hosted jointly with The Bishop of Chichester, The Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner. Working with Chichester Cathedral, the Chichester Workshop seeks to be an international centre for the production and teaching of traditional liturgical art.
Image: Russell Sach (2023)
October
Throughout October we hosted Peter Walker Sculptor's Peace Doves, where 15,000 paper Doves were suspended in our Cathedral’s ancient Nave, each one etched with messages of hope, love and peace written by different members of our community and beyond. Over 52,000 people walked through the Cathedral doors to experience Peace Doves and an array of events, from Silent Discos to storytelling.
November
In November we celebrated the completion of our major project to repair the Cathedral’s historic high roofs and new lighting system. A service of Choral Evensong attended by the Bishop of Chichester the Right Reverend Dr Martin Warner and Patron of the roof restoration project Dame Patricia Routledge, took place on Sunday 26th November to give thanks to all those involved, including DBR Limited, Ellis & Co, Alltask, MSE Group Ltd, CBG Light Perceptions, and Lutron) as well as those who planned and funded them.
December
During December the spotlight shined on Bertie the Cathedral Cat as we told an online animated story following the journey of Bertie as he finally sneaks into the historic Cathedral and welcomes a family to join one of the annual Carol Services, written and narrated by the Interim Dean of Chichester, The Reverend Canon Simon Holland (pictured).
Bonus photo! | Dining under Peace Doves
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In October a special fundraising event for Festival of Flowers 2024 with a dinner under Peace Doves, hosted by Festival Patron Kate Mosse Author. The Festival of Flowers is a four day spectacular in the setting of Chichester’s almost 950 year old Cathedral, taking place from 5th – 8th June 2024, tickets are on sale here>>