Enlighten Launches at Lichfield Cathedral

“At a time when words are so often used to divide, we hope Enlighten will offer a voice of hope and help to foster deeper understanding and community.” – The Rt Revd Jan McFarlane, Dean of Lichfield

Enlighten Launches at Lichfield Cathedral

Once the beating heart of the Enlightenment—home to some of Britain’s greatest thinkers, scientists and philosophers—Lichfield Cathedral is reclaiming its heritage of conversation with the launch of a new weekend of discussion and debate, called Enlighten.

Rooted in the Christian faith that once shaped the city’s historic intellects, Enlighten is a new annual festival that will take place in September and will ask: ‘What does genuine dialogue look like in a contested world?’

Honouring the legacy of local luminaries such as Samuel Johnson, Erasmus Darwin and David Garrick, the Cathedral will invite scholars, writers, politicians, clergy, and curious minds alike to engage in courageous, constructive conversations on the pressing issues of our day—from truth and technology to justice, division, and belief.

The Revd Canon Dr Gregory Platten, organizing lead on the festival, said:

‘We live in a contested age, and we urgently need spaces for rigorous, respectful, and even uncomfortable conversation.  

‘The Enlightenment spirit was never about easy agreement—it was about a courageous seeking after truth. 

‘This festival seeks to revive that same spirit, and whilst in the values of faith, is open to everyone.’

Headline thinkers include MP Jeremy Hunt who will be interviewed by journalist and writer, Nick Higham on Can We Make Britain Great Again. Sir Jeremy Hunt has held two of the most senior Cabinet roles in the British Government — Foreign Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Professor Diarmaid Maculloch will stimulate discussion on ‘Sex and Christianity‘, Alec Ryrie on the ‘Age of Hitler‘ and Sarah Ogilvie on ‘The Dictionary People.’

The Rt Revd Jan McFarlane, Dean of Lichfield said:

“Cathedrals have always been places where challenging conversations can be held with dignity and respect.

“At a time when words are so often used to divide, we hope Enlighten will offer a voice of hope and help to foster deeper understanding and community.”

This marks the inaugural year of what organisers hope will grow to become a firm fixture in Lichfield Cathedral’s annual calendar.

Enlighten in Lichfield Cathedral – September 26–28.

For more information and how to book tickets, visit www.enlighten-lichfield.org.