The Cathedral has been at the centre of life and worship in Chichester for over nine centuries and the Friends are proud to support this very special place.
Originally the Friends were set up to:
- Raise funds for repairs and preservation (especially important during and after World War II)
- Build a community of supporters who cared about the cathedral’s future
- Help maintain the fabric of the building—stonework, roofs, and historic features
Back then, cathedrals often relied heavily on local donors, and groups like this were essential for survival.
As time went on (especially after becoming more formally structured in the 1950s), our activities broadened:
- Funding major restoration projects (e.g. structural repairs, conservation of art and architecture)
- Supporting music and worship, including choirs and events
- Contributing to education and outreach programmes
- Helping enhance visitor experience (exhibitions, facilities, interpretation)
Through the giving of grants and the organisation of events, the Friends provide help with an exciting array of projects relating to the Cathedral’s art and music and to its mission as a spiritual and educational hub while being part of a living history and making new friends and connections.
Events
Our Coffee mornings held on the first Saturday in the month in the South Transept of the Cathedral, are particularly popular. Our events and tours enable our members to meet one another sociably and visit sights as a group. A recent group tour included visiting the refurbished Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Friends therefore play an invaluable part in working with the Dean and Chapter in maintaining and enhancing, the building, worship, and congregational and visitor experience.
