Lent at Durham Cathedral

Speaking truth in this fake news era, new art exhibitions for reflection and contemplation, lectures from leading figures from the creative arts on deepening spirituality, and forty cathedrals in forty days – just some of the opportunities for reflection, contemplation, and shared worship in our cathedrals this season.

Walking in Jesus’ footsteps this Lent, Holy Week and Easter.

Lent begins today with Ash Wednesday, marking the start of the forty days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness and represent the busiest and most significant dates in the Christian calendar.

Throughout this season, you will find a variety of worship, talks, discussion groups, art exhibitions, study, arts and crafts and lunches.

Find your Cathedral’s website here.

Durham Cathedral is bringing together leading voices from across the creative arts for its Lent programme this year

Featuring leaders in their fields from the former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company to artist, Mel Howse, who created the illumination window in the cathedral, the talks will explore how artistic expression can deepen an understanding of prayer.

Encountering God through the Creative Arts takes place every Sunday and invites audiences to consider how film, literature, theatre, television, art and music can open new pathways to spiritual insight.

Revd Canon Michael Hampel, Vice-Dean and Precentor at Durham Cathedral who has organised the series, said,

“Lent is a moment in the Christian year when we intentionally slow down and deepen our life of prayer. Through these talks, we hope to show how the creative arts can shed light on the deeper questions and experiences that shape our lives. Each guest brings a unique perspective, and I am delighted that they will help us reflect on how creativity and prayer continually inform and illuminate one another.”

Each week will feature leading figures in the world of the creative arts, including film, literature, theatre, television, art and music, in conversation with Michael.

Speakers include Sir Gregory Doran, former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Peter Taylor, LVO, Head of Operations at BBC Studios and award-winning artist Mel Howse, who created the Illumination Window which is located in the North Quire Aisle at Durham Cathedral.

Michael continues:

“We are honoured to welcome such distinguished speakers to the cathedral during Lent. From nationally recognised broadcasters, writers, musicans and artists – each conversation promises to be rich, insightful and deeply inspiring.”

The talks will take place every Sunday during Lent from 9 March – 13 April and will follow on from Evensong which starts at 3.30pm. All talks are free, with no tickets required, and will be livestremed on the cathedral’s YouTube channel.

For more information, click here.