This week sees the introduction of new information
boards in the cathedral. This may sound a rather mundane development!
Of course, we already have information board, which help visitors
understand something of the history of the cathedral. The new
boards are designed to show something of the life of the cathedral.
There will be eight new boards. Each will be in two halves: one half permanent information - one half a space where there
can be variable notices, photographs and other information.
The Cathedral and the Diocese
This will give background to the diocese of which the cathedral
is the Mother Church
The Cathedral and History
This will enable us to present our
history in a creative and pastoral way.
The Cathedral and Community
A ‘who’s who’
of those who work in the cathedral
The Cathedral Sunday School
A key information point to enable congregation and visitors
to know about our work with young people.
The Cathedral and its Library and Archives
A changing display of information about this key part of the cathedral’s
tradition.
The Cathedral and Education
Placed near to the Cathedral’s
education room, this will have regular updates on what the Cathedral
can offer through its education ministry
The Cathedral and Music
Regular updates about the place of
worship and music in the cathedral’s life
The Cathedral and Hospitality
Information about this important
part of the cathedral’s ministry - the Cloister Cafe,
the Cathedral Shop and the Mappa Mundi and Exhibition.
We so often find that our visitors love to learn more about
the human side of the cathedral and its life. Yes, the architecture
and history is important, but sometimes visitors are not aware
of the people who make up our community and who make the cathedral
what it is today.
I’m reminded of that prayer by the 17th-century bishop,
Thomas Ken:
O God, make the door of this church wide enough
To receive all who need human love and fellowship,
And a heavenly Father’s care,
And narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride and hate.
Make its threshold smooth enough
To be no stumbling block to children
Nor to straying feet,
But rugged enough to turn back the tempter’s power.
Make it a gateway to thine eternal kingdom.
Amen.
