The Hereford Gospels for Today

The ‘Hereford Gospels for Today’ to tour the Diocese of Hereford

An inspiring collection of community responses to The Hereford Gospels, one of Hereford Cathedral’s greatest treasures, will go on display this summer.

Last year an artist callout was issued by Bishop David Thomson, inviting individuals to create artworks in response to The Hereford Gospels, a fascinating manuscript which was created around 800AD. The aim of the project was to create a new book which speaks of the beauty and faith of the original and also represents faith across the Diocese of Hereford today.

Over sixty submissions have been inserted into a beautiful, handmade blank book which was made using traditional techniques by Arthur Green of Green’s Books. The works include images and words by artists, calligraphers and children from across local schools. The book and over forty more submissions will now tour the Diocese throughout the summer, and viewers will be able to turn the pages and view this fascinating project for themselves.

Bishop David is smiling as he holds the book open on a colourful hand drawn page. He is standing in front of a book case

Bishop David holding the Hereford Gospels for Today

Bishop David, who has led the project, said, “I am absolutely thrilled at the way in which the oldest treasure of our diocese has inspired so many of our people today, over 1200 years later. The good news of the Gospel really is always old and always new, sparking new life and creativity wherever it lands. Over 100 people, young and old, experts and beginners, have made their mark in the Gospels for Today and its linked exhibitions, and with five venues displaying it over the summer there is chance for many, many more to come and turn its pages and be inspired themselves in this diocesan Year of Celebration.”

The Hereford Gospels for Today coincides with the 1350^th anniversary of the foundation of the Diocese of Hereford and Hereford Cathedral’s Year of Storytelling which seeks to celebrate God’s story. As part of this year of celebrations, the cathedral is currently displaying The Hereford Gospels in its exhibition Shaping Early Medieval Faith: The Hereford Gospels.

The Revd Canon James Pacey said: “I would very much like to thank Bishop David for his passion and vision which has enabled this wonderful project to come to life. It is a real joy to be able to view such inspired and creative responses to one of our greatest treasures and celebrate faith across our Diocese in the modern day. We also extend our grateful thanks to members of the Hereford Cathedral congregation for their help in funding this project.”

The Hereford Gospels for Today will be dedicated on Pentecost Sunday, 24 May at Hereford Cathedral and all are welcome to join. Bishop David will be presiding and preaching at the 10am Cathedral Eucharist and the book will remain on display until Monday 25 May.

It will then be displayed in: