Peace is the theme for a series of special events and services to accompany the art installation, Peace Doves when it opens in Durham Cathedral later this month.
Peace at Durham Cathedral this Summer
“The programme that surrounds the artwork is a wonderful mix of prayerful services, one-off experiences and thought-provoking activities which we hope will inspire everyone who takes part with a sense of God’s peace which they can take away into their own lives.” The Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham.
Peter Walker’s artwork Peace Doves will be suspended in the cathedral nave from 26 July until 4 September.
Photo credit – Peter Walker, Sculptor
Visitors, schools, local groups and church communities have been busy making paper doves and writing their messages of peace, love, and hope on them, and can continue to do so until July 20.
These will then become part of the 15,000-plus paper doves that make up the installation that will hang from ribbons from the nave and is set to music by composer, David Harper.
To complement the exhibition, Durham Cathedral has just announced a package of special events and services including unique dining experiences, family-friendly mini-tours, late-night openings and a Day of Prayer for Peace.
Andrew Usher, Chief Officer, Visitor Experience and Enterprise at Durham Cathedral, said:
“We look forward to showcasing Peace Doves at the cathedral this summer. The artwork itself will look impressive in the Nave of the cathedral, however, we also wanted to offer people the chance to have some unique experiences that reflect the serenity and peace of the installation.
“We’ve developed a programme that is accessible to a broad range of visitors and includes special services and family-friendly activities that are free to engage with, mid-range evening open events, and for those who want to splurge on something extra special, we are hosting three-course dinners under the artwork too.
“We hope there is something to meet everyone’s tastes and budget,” he added.
One of the highlights will be a series of late-night openings offering visitors the chance to see the installation after-hours on selected evenings in July and August when the doves will be illuminated against the evening backdrop of the cathedral’s Nave.
The Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham said:
“The Peace Doves installation represents a chance for people of all faiths and backgrounds to come into this historic house of prayer and offer their different voices, wishes and prayers in the cause of peace.”
The special services and events programme is now live for visitors to book here.
More information, click here.
