“Threads through the Bible” comes to Ely Cathedral – Wish you were here

A second world war plane suspended in the nave, Mars, Peace Doves, an Escape Room, an exhibition celebrating water, and the retelling of the Bible in 25million stitches – all our cathedrals have exciting programmes of events for everyone this summer and all are underpinned by the daily rhythm of prayer and worship.

#WishYouWereHere – Summer in our Cathedrals – what will you discover?

A masterpiece of faith and art: “Threads through the Bible” comes to Ely Cathedral

Ely Cathedral will showcase textile artist Jacqui Parkinson’s Threads Through the Bible this summer.

Threads Through the Bible combines three of Jacqui’s exhibitions: ‘Threads through Creation’, ‘Threads through the Cross’ and ‘Threads through Revelation’ making 44 silk panels, stretching 80 metres in length and almost 3 metres in height – with more than 25 million stitches!

This carefully stitched artwork took almost a decade to craft by hand and tells the story of God’s enduring love, the trials of humanity, and the triumphs of faith from Creation to Revelation, weaving together the timeless teachings of the Bible into one visual experience.

Having taught drama and set up an arts centre in London, artist Jacqui Parkinson has been fascinated by Bible stories for fifty years and, as a result, has spent the last 10 years creating and sewing these enormous panels in her studio in Devon.

Jacqui said:

“I start with antique bedsheets, which hold their own tales of life and death. Then I gradually build up my stories by quilting the sheets and painting them. 

‘It’s a pleasure to exhibit ‘Threads through the Bible’ in the magnificent setting of Ely Cathedral.  I hope the panels will add a sparkle to everyone’s visit here, adding to the inspiration of such a glorious building.’

Ely is only the third cathedral to display Jacqui’s trilogy and follows successful shows in Liverpool and Southwell Minster earlier this year.

‘Threads through the Bible’ will be on display at Ely Cathedral from 09 May to 29 June 2025. Find out more here.