New exhibition showcases treasures from York Minster’s historic collection
A new exhibition showcasing treasures from York Minster’s historic collection which explore creativity and culture in York through the centuries will open at the cathedral on Saturday (19 September).
From stained glass and illuminated manuscripts to grave goods and York’s first newspaper, the exhibition highlights objects from the cathedral’s 300,000 strong collection and celebrates the work of the artists and craftspeople who created them.
Running until 17 January 2021, the exhibition – The Heart of Yorkshire: Creativity and Culture in York Minster’s Collections – will take place in the cathedral’s 13th century Chapter House and features around 50 items, including some rarely on public display.
Highlights include one of the oldest stained glass panels in Europe, ornate 13th century silver artefacts discovered in a former Archbishop’s grave and a copy of York’s first newspaper, printed in the city by an eminent female printer.
The exhibition has been made possible thanks to funding and support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Museum Development Yorkshire.
Helen Rawson, Head of Heritage at York Minster, explains: “York Minster is custodian to a diverse collection of objects, many of which were made in York and which tell the stories of the cathedral, the city and the Christian faith in the north of England.
“Since its foundation in 627AD, the Minster has commissioned items to support its devotional and educational missions while collecting material and manuscripts in its library and archives which detail the city’s history and development.
“This new exhibition has been curated to showcase some of these amazing objects, to celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship in the city over the centuries and to explore the role of the cathedral at the heart of this rich and inspiring culture.”
Items include a 12th century stained glass panel which is one of the oldest surviving pieces of stained glass both in the Minster and in Europe. The panel, which is decorated with leaves and foliage and would have formed the border to a larger scene, will be on display with other stained glass ‘displaced’ during different phases of conservation and restoration work in the Minster over the centuries. York was an important centre of glass-painting in the Middle Ages and the Minster’s windows contain the largest and most diverse collection of in-situ medieval stained glass in Britain.
Other items include a silver chalice and paten and a gold ring dating from the 13th century which were discovered in the grave of Archbishop Sewal de Bovill, who was Archbishop of York from 1256 – 1258. Silver and gold have been used throughout history in religious ceremonies and for prestigious occasions. The metals have been shaped in York from at least the 8th century, when a mint for issuing coins was established, while the goldsmiths formed themselves into a craft guild in the 14th century.
The exhibition also includes a copy of York’s first newspaper, the York Mercury, printed in the city by Grace White, who was one of three entrepreneurial female printers in the city operating in the 1600s and 1700s at a time when the industry was dominated by men. Grace took over her husband’s printing press when she became a widow and ran the business between 1716 and 1721 leading the way with the creation of the local newspaper, with the city eventually boasting eight different titles.
Among the manuscripts on display in the exhibition is the Bolton Hours, a beautifully illuminated 15th century Book of Hours, the exquisite detail of which includes 47 full-page pictures of saints and biblical scenes, and six smaller miniatures.
The exhibition will be open from Saturday 19 September during normal visiting times, currently Monday to Thursday 11am – 4.30pm, Friday and Saturday 10am – 4.30pm and Sunday 12.30pm – 2.30pm. Entry is included with a standard admission ticket and entry to the Minster is free for York residents with a valid proof of address.
Archbishop to ordain twelve Deacons to serve in the Diocese of York
Twelve women and men will be ordained Deacon by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, in the course of five services in York Minster between Friday 25th and Sunday 27th September 2020.
The twelve, who would have been ordained in July this year but for the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, have been serving as Licenced Lay Ministers in the parishes within the Diocese of York in which they will continue to serve as Curates once they have been ordained.
The five services replace the customary single service in the Nave of York Minster, to enable the closest family and friends of the two or three candidates in each service to attend within the current guidelines for social distancing and maximum numbers.
Due to the COVID restrictions only those invited may attend; however, the core of each service will be live-streamed on the Diocese of York’s Facebook page (no Facebook login required), and still photographs will be freely available afterwards for downloading and publication here.
The Archbishop of York said, “It’s an unexpected joy for me to be ordaining twelve Deacons this autumn. These are unusual times and all twelve have been making their mark in their new parishes for over three months as Lay Workers; I give thanks to God for the ministries that are already growing in them and through them, and for the blessing they will be as he sends them out as servants and heralds of the gospel.”
The services begin at the following times, with the live stream beginning after approximately twenty minutes:
Friday 25 September at at 7.00pm
Ordination of Will Ellis and Mark Poole
Saturday 26 September at at 2.00pm
Ordination of Kirsty Dennett and Fiona Hill
Saturday 26 September at at 7.30pm
Ordination of Vicky Earll and Alan Leach
Sunday 27 September at at 1.30pm
Ordination of Jane Emson, Phil Grayson and Jane Robson
Sunday 27 September at at 6.30pm
Ordination of Nick Garside, Vanessa Kirby and Richard Townend
Please find more information about the ordinations on the Diocese of York’s website.
Introducing the Candidates:
Kirsty Dennett comes from a nursing background, working until a few years ago as a Staff Nurse at York Hospital; she continues to serve there as a Chaplain.
During a time in her life when she felt particularly unworthy and unloved, Kirsty had a profound experience of God through the Holy Spirit.
“The experience showed me how God saw me, how God saw all of us, and how connected we all are to each other; this realisation of God’s unconditional love forever changed me.”
Kirsty began studying with York School of Ministry (YSOM) in 2012, becoming a Reader (a licensed lay minister) in 2016 and attaining a BA theology degree, and gradually internal prompting drew her towards ordination.
She studied for two years with St Hild College, and looks forward to serving as Assistant Curate in her home parish of Clifton, York.
“With a heart for pastoral care and social justice, I ask that I am used in the way God wills.”
Vicky Earll grew up in a Christian family where faith was expressed as something exciting.
After university she planted and led a Pioneer Network Church for 14 years: “Our heart was to build authentic community and be a church that was accessible for people to find God.
“An unexpected call into the Church of England that I couldn’t escape brings me to ordination; I trained at Cranmer Hall, Durham and am grateful for all that I learned, time to reflect and the friends I have made.
“My hope for my future ministry is that it will be authentic and full of love, as I seek to join in with what God is doing. I long for people to encounter our loving God and experience the transformation that his love brings”.
Vicky will serve as Assistant Curate at St Michael-le-Belfrey, York.
Will Ellis came to faith at university, and moved to York to complete an MA in medieval history before working in York Minster as a verger.
While working at York Minster he began to discern a calling to ordained ministry. He worked as a full-time pastoral assistant on an estate in North Shields to explore this calling, and for the last three years has been trained and formed for the ministry at Ridley Hall in Cambridge.
Will enjoyed his time in Cambridge and feels that he grew in the love of Christ and the fellowship of the Spirit in the community of faith at college.
“I am excited to have moved back to Yorkshire to be part of God’s mission, serving the people of Whitby, and following in the footsteps of St Hilda and other great northern saints.”
He will serve as Assistant Curate in the Parish of Whitby.
Jane Emson came to faith in her late 20s, and worked for 30 years inside and outside the church with vulnerable children, young people and adults, in Social care with drug and alcohol services, rehabilitation centres, young offenders, women’s refuges, domestic abuse projects, and prisons, including serving as lay chaplain to a women’s prison.
She has never stopped telling people about Jesus: “I have always been very passionate about sharing my faith and that continues today. It saddens me that people do not know the hope that is found in Jesus.”
Jane trained and is commissioned as a Church Army evangelist, and with support overcame her dyslexia to gain a BA in Mission and Ministry at the age of 45.
She will continue to serve as a ‘Multiply Minister’ helping to build a new worshipping community at Brambles Farm and Thorntree in Middlesbrough, and hopes to bring people to a living Faith in Jesus Christ, enabling them become wholehearted followers.
Nick Garside is a long-serving church organist and choir director, having come to Jesus at the age of 17 after a service at Scargill House in Kettlewell.
A musician and music teacher, Nick was the Head of Music at Selby College until last year, and continues to teach instrumental music at schools in the York area and at York Music Centre.
Married to Jill, with sons Sam, Chris, Eric and Frank and four grandchildren, Nick enjoys cooking, gardening and when he gets some free time likes to paint watercolours.
He has studied as an Ordinand at St Hild College for the last two years, and at York School of Ministry before that.
“I love to see people come to know Jesus and I’m looking forward to meeting and walking alongside people on their journey of faith,” he says.
Nick will serve as Assistant Curate in Rural Ainsty (Bilton in Ainsty; Healaugh; Hessay; Moor Monkton and Wighill).
Phil Grayson came to a personal faith in Christ at age 11. Ordination was not a career he considered until his first year of Sixth Form, when he experienced a renewal of his faith after a period of significant challenge.
He studied for a BA in Theology and Religious Studies at York St John University, before going home to Sheffield to work as a Parish Assistant, and then three years as a Conductor on Sheffield’s trams.
Phil returned to York for a Church of England Ministry Experience Scheme year, at the Minster and St Luke’s parish church, and was recommended for ordination; he trained at Cranmer Hall, Durham.
“Ordination training is certainly demanding, but I have found it to be a time of growth, deep relationships and a lot of fun.
“My hope for ministry is that I will be able to help people encounter the love of God and grow to become passionate followers of Jesus.”
Phil will serve as Assistant Curate at Sherburn-in-Elmet with Saxton.
Fiona Hill’s varied career has included serving others from waitressing to checkouts to museums; she holds a teaching certificate in Lifelong Learning and worked in a university library tagging books.
“But the golden thread has been working with people with disabilities – in the community, in the college I did my A Levels in, in universities and as a diocesan disability officer.”
Her calling started with people stating, “So you’re gonna be a vicar then.”
“Eventually I prayed if this was what God wanted, ‘God, if you want me to be a priest, you’re gonna have to make it obvious, but not scary, cos you know what I’m like.’”
Following this prayer came a religious experience – it became obvious to Fiona that God wanted her to become a priest – “and the religious experience wasn’t scary either!”
She trained for ordination at Cranmer Hall, Durham, and hopes “To serve God well, to proclaim the Good News faithfully, and to seek the Holy Spirit.”
Fiona will serve as Assistant Curate at Scarborough, St Columba and St James with Holy Trinity.
Vanessa Kirby came to faith at Mission England in 1985 aged 19 and was nurtured as a disciple at St Barnabas Church, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough.
In 1998 she began training with Church Army in Sheffield, and ministered there until 2015.
Back in Middlesbrough she has taken different roles in deprived communities focusing on supporting people to live life in all its fullness.
She trained for odination at Cranmer Hall, Durham, and enjoyed community life spanning the breadth of the Anglican Church.
Vanessa is married to Jeff with two children, Ben and Alice, and is a Teessider born and bred.
“With a heart for Teesside, I am thrilled that my curacy is at St Oswald’s and St Chad’s in Middlesbrough.
“I reflect and hold on to some words from theologian Philip Yancey: ‘There is nothing we can do to make God love us more, and nothing we can do to make God love us less’.”
Alan Leach is a Lecturer and Psychotherapist working in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
He enjoyed training for ordination at St Hild College, gaining a Diploma HE in Theology, Ministry and Mission.
“I found the course a huge learning curve with my formation being both challenging and rewarding in my spiritual growth. I continue to gain from my training a deepened sense of connection with God through ongoing prayer and biblical studies.”
He will continue his professional work alongside his role as Assistant Curate at All Saints, Rudston.
Alan lives with his wife Jenny and three younger sons, Matthew (12), Samuel (15) and Jake (16), and says that his older children Amy and stepson William are thrilled about his upcoming ordination.
“I am excited to harness my secular gifts in teaching and pastoral support applying them into a faith-centred context and placing Christ at the heart of my ministry.”
Mark Poole committed his life to Jesus Christ at the age of fifteen and shortly afterwards he had a sense of calling to ordained ministry, but tried to ignore it for many years!
He trained to teach in Oxford where he met his wife, Emma.
He taught for 20 years, serving for 12 of those as a Headteacher and Adviser/Inspector for North Yorkshire County Council.
They have two grown-up children and two dogs.
The calling to ordained ministry remained over the years and following more serious discernment, Mark began training at St Hild College in Mirfield.
“It has been a huge privilege to study, and a rich and blessed formational journey over the last three years.
“I feel sure that God’s timing has been perfect.”
Mark is excited to serve God and His people as Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Rural East York (Dunnington, Holtby, Stockton-on-the-Forest and Warthill).
Jane Robson committed to follow Jesus in 1981 aged 12.
In her mid 20s she felt called to full-time Christian work: “I said ‘yes’ but God said ‘not yet’.” She continued her pharmacy career, ultimately becoming Clinical Pharmacy Manager at North Tees Hospital.
After a clear call she became a Reader (a licensed lay minister) in 2014 and began to consider ordination.
“After several years of fighting, including two trying to teach God theology (didn’t he know women shouldn’t be ordained as priests?!) I submitted and acknowledged the call was real.”
Jane trained at Cranmer Hall, Durham; an amazing experience which helped her discern God’s voice and find her security in him.
“I long to help others find their vocation, whether in secular employment, or in the church – and to walk beside them as they work it out.”
Jane will serve as Curate in Great Ayton with Easby and Newton under Roseberry.
Richard Townend is from York and came to faith as a teenager in Criccieth, North Wales.
Whilst employed as children’s worker in Middlesbrough in 2005, he received a calling to ordained ministry.
Sadly, at this time, it wasn’t meant to be. Richard’s pastoral nature and heart for children’s work led him to an enjoyable and successful career in primary teaching at Barlby.
Following contact with Archbishop Sentamu in 2017, Richard unexpectedly found himself in a discernment process, and a few months later, began training at Cranmer Hall, Durham.
Richard is married to Emma with two daughters: Belle (11) and Jasmine (9); and a sausage dog called Taffy.
The family are thrilled to be moving to Bridlington where Richard will serve as Assistant Curate at Emmanuel Church.
“It has taken fifteen years, so I am eager to share God’s love as a deacon. I’m sure it will be worth the wait!”
Work to rebuild York Minster’s Grand Organ enters final phases
Work to rebuild York Minster’s Grand Organ as part of a once-a-century project to refurbishment the instrument is nearing completion at the cathedral.
Specialist organ builders Harrison and Harrison are today returning some of the recently restored decorative pipes, dating from the 1800s, to the organ’s case – after work started to rebuild the instrument in June.
The organ, which is one of the largest in the country and includes 5,403 pipes, was removed from the Minster in October 2018 and taken to the company’s specialist workshop in Durham for cleaning, repair and replacement.
Parts of the instrument were returned to the cathedral at the end of 2019 and in January this year, before work on the £2m project, the first on this scale since 1903, paused in March due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
The final parts of the rebuild of the instrument are due to be completed by early October, following which the scaffolding will be removed before the organ is ‘voiced’, a process to ensure the pipes’ notes and volume levels are playing correctly.
It is hoped the refurbished instrument will be back in use by spring 2021.
Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster, said: “We’re delighted to have reached this stage in the project and to see all the amazing craftsmanship which has gone into refurbishing the Grand Organ coming together.
“Organ music has been at the heart of worship at York Minster for nearly 1,000 years and we hope this project will allow us to continue that tradition throughout the 21st century and beyond.”
The decorative pipes being returned today are part of a set of 102 pipes which decorate the organ’s case. They are some of the oldest surviving pipes in the organ dating from 1832, when a new organ was built following an arson attack in the Quire in 1829 which destroyed the previous instrument.
They have been silent for more than 100 years, following the last major refurbishment of the instrument in 1903, but as part of the current project the majority will be brought back into musical use.
During the refurbishment it was found that around 30 of the original case pipes were beyond economic repair and they have been replaced, with the originals auctioned last autumn to help raise funds for the project.
The remaining originals were cleaned and repainted inside the cathedral last autumn by graining and marbling specialists Robert Woodland & Son, who also decorated the new pipes to match the originals.
Originally painted green, the case pipes were updated in 1859 to the distinctive gold, green, cream and red decoration seen today.
The once-a-century refurbishment has also included replacing the organ’s mechanism and extensive work to clean and overhaul the instrument. A new music library has also been created underneath the organ, inside the screen which separates the cathedral’s Quire from its Nave.
Consecrations to be livestreamed from York Minster
Consecrations of the Bishop of Doncaster and the Bishop of Sherwood to be livestreamed from York Minster
Two new Bishops will be consecrated in separate services taking place at York Minster on Monday 21 September.
The Revd Canon Sophie Jelley, former Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry in the Diocese of Durham and Canon Missioner at Durham Cathedral, will be consecrated as Bishop of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield. Sophie will be consecrated in the morning by The Archbishop of York, The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, assisted by the Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler and the Bishop of Sheffield, Pete Wilcox.
In the afternoon, the Revd Dr Andrew Emerton, former Dean of St Mellitus College, will be consecrated as Bishop of Sherwood in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. Andrew will be consecrated by the Bishop of Durham, the Revd Paul Butler, assisted by the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Paul Williams. The Archbishop of York will preside at both services.
The consecration services will take place in the context of the Eucharist and will include readings, prayers, music and a sermon.
The services will be held under careful guidelines because of the Coronavirus pandemic with strict limits on the numbers attending. Both services will be live-streamed making it possible for friends, family and members of the worldwide Christian Union to experience the occasions in real time.
Commenting on her forthcoming consecration, Sophie said: “Since the delayed consecration in March, I have been greatly blessed to join in the work in the Diocese of Sheffield as Bishop Designate of Doncaster and to meet many people from across the area. It will be a joy to be consecrated by Archbishop Stephen in his new role in the Northern Province. This is a great time to be serving in the North and I am excited to see how God shapes his church for the future as we respond to the challenge of coronavirus and help those in our communities to know that they are loved and valued by God.”
Commenting on his consecration service, Andy said:
“It has been a joy for me to begin to be involved with mission and ministry across the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham since being licensed as the Bishop of Sherwood designate in July. I am very much looking forward to being consecrated by Bishop Paul in the service at York Minster and to serve under Archbishop Stephen in the Northern Province. At this time of huge challenge for so many across the country it is a privilege to be called to share the love of Christ and the good news of the Gospel with all.”
The livestream for Sophie’s Consecration service will be available from 11am until 12.30pm (approx.) on York Minster’s website at www.YorkMinster.org/Whats-On
The livestream for Andrew’s Consecration service will be available from 2.30 until 4.00pm on York Minster’s website at www.YorkMinster.org/Whats-On
The Orders of Service for the consecrations will be available for download on the day on the York Minster website.
Evensong Services return to York Minster this week
After a break of more than six months, York Minster’s popular Evensong services return this week on Wednesday 9 September with the first of three world premiere performances of new music specially commissioned for the Minster.
The adult singers of the York Minster Choir will give world first performances of new anthems by three outstanding composers. On Wednesday 9 September, the choir will perform ‘O sing unto the Lord a new song’ by Cornish composer Becky McGlade. Thursday 10 September will mark the first performance of ‘Now cheer our hearts this eventide, Lord Jesus Christ’, composed by Philip Moore, Organ Emeritus of York Minster and Friday 11 September will be the premiere of ‘After this, we will return’ by Cambridge composer, Sarah MacDonald.
Evensong services to the 19 September will be performed by the adult singers of the choir. As well as the new pieces, this week’s Evensong will feature music that is both contemplative and uplifting. The boys and girls of the York Minster Choir will return to sing in the Minster later this month. The daily order of service and music for Evensong is published in the York Minster Services Scheme.
Welcoming the resumption of choral singing, Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster said: “The last six months have been challenging for England’s cathedral choirs, for musicians and for all those who love the atmosphere and music of Evensong. It is exciting that the Minster’s singers and musicians will return to premiere exceptional new music from such renowned choral composers.”
Seating capacity for worship will be greatly reduced as services will be managed in line with Government and Church of England guidance for safe social distancing. A reservation system will be introduced from Sunday 27 September for the most popular Sunday services – Matins at 10am, the Eucharist at 11am and Evensong at 4pm.
Reservations will not be required for Evensong services on weekdays. Evensong has been moved from the Quire to the Nave which can currently accommodate 180 people. Tickets for services are free of charge.
Three newly commissioned anthems to celebrate the return of choral singing at York Minster
World premiere performances of three specially commissioned anthems, will mark the resumption of choral singing at York Minster after a six month break caused by the Coronavirus pandemic – the first break in choral singing at the Minster in 360 years.
The three anthems will be premiered at Evensong performances by the adult singers of the York Minster Choir. On Wednesday 9 September, the choir will perform ‘O sing unto the Lord a new song’ by Cornish composer Becky McGlade. Thursday 10 September will mark the first performance of ‘Now cheer our hearts this eventide, Lord Jesus Christ’, composed by Philip Moore, Organ Emeritus of York Minster. Friday 11 September will be the premiere of ‘After this, we will return’ by Cambridge composer, Sarah MacDonald. The boy and girl choristers will return to their singing in the Minster later this month.
The last sung service in the Minster was on 15 March 2020. Explaining the historical significance of the interruption, Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster said: “The last break in singing in cathedrals was 360 years ago – the period between the execution of Charles I on 30 January 1649 and the Restoration of the Monarchy with Charles II in London on 29 May 1660 – when the Puritans outlawed choral music in worship. The Act of Uniformity in 1662 restored earlier Church of England liturgical practice including choral singing. Singing in the Minster continued throughout both World Wars and even after the catastrophic fire of July 1984 when choral services sung by the York Minster Choir continued in our sister church, St Michael-le-Belfrey. Choral music is at the heart of worship in the Minster: the virus stopped everything.”
Robert continued: “There is a real sense of anticipation and excitement at the Minster. After such a long time without singing, to come back with three remarkable new compositions is both a great honour and a great privilege.”
Composer Becky McGlade said: “Like so many, I am thrilled that choirs will once again be singing in our churches and cathedrals after this unprecedented hiatus. It is exciting that at York Minster there are going to be some new anthems to mark the recommencement of this wonderful tradition. It is a delight to be a part of this. The text of my anthem, taken from Psalm 98, exhorts us to sing a new song to the Lord and to celebrate the marvellous things He has done. It is a timely reminder that however demanding the season, He remains faithful at all times, and I hope to convey in my setting the joy of being able to sing to Him once more.”
Composer Philip Moore said: “News that the Minster Choir will sing once again is joyous indeed. I was therefore honoured and delighted to have been asked by Robert Sharpe to contribute to a series of anthems for alto, tenor and bass. Writing for a three-part choir is an enjoyable challenge, akin perhaps to cooking with only three ingredients. I hope these new musical recipes will mark a significant step in restoring our treasured choirs to their full glory and will give worshippers a taste of eternity.”
Composer Sarah MacDonald said: “The news that we are allowed to sing again has relieved and revived musicians across the country. We need innovative, creative and optimistic ideas to rebuild our wonderful cathedral tradition, and Robert’s invitation to participate in this brilliant initiative was a joy to receive as I’m sure it was for all of the composers. I have sourced Biblical texts for my contribution which speak of loss, return and renewal, not only reflecting what we have been through as a community, but also serving as a metaphor for my own compositional mind set. Fortunately, some of those longed-for fresh ideas reappeared with the knowledge that the piece will be sung live very soon by such a fabulous choir.”
In recent weeks, the 11am congregation has numbered more than 100 and is expected to increase as soon as choral singing resumes. In order to safely maintain the guidelines for social distancing, a reservation system will be introduced from Sunday 27 September for the most popular Sunday services – Matins at 10am, the Eucharist at 11am and Evensong at 4pm.
Patricia Dunlop, Director of Visitor Experience at York Minster said: “Our priority is to enable everyone to keep safe as we return to worship in the Minster and to adhere to the social distancing guidelines currently in force. Covid-19 has affected virtually every aspect of our lives, and this change is just one more adaptation that we have to make in order to enjoy Sunday worship in a safe manner, as we welcome choral music back to the Minster.”
Weekend visitor hours extended at York Minster
Friday and Saturday opening hours at York Minster will be increased by one hour allowing more people to visit the 850 year old medieval gothic cathedral this summer. The new hours will start on Saturday 8 August, the same day that face coverings become compulsory for people visiting churches and a range of other indoor spaces.
The Minster reopened to paying visitors on 11 July with a range of measures in place to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. These include new signage, handwashing stations and a one-way system to keep visitors and staff safe. Entry is by pre-booked online ticket with timed slots to ensure social distancing. The cathedral has been operating at 20 per cent of capacity (a maximum of 500 people per day).
Patricia Dunlop, Director of Visitor Experience said the move was in response to strong public demand for visits to the Minster. Patricia said: “Visitors have come from all over the UK, indicating a strong ‘staycation’ market and some international tourists have also visited contributing to a strong demand for the pre-booked timeslots, most of which have sold out in advance. Opening one hour earlier on Fridays and Saturdays will allow 100 people more to visit safely on each day.”
Saturday also marks the introduction of new Government guidelines requiring face coverings to be worn in churches for worship or for sightseeing. Commenting on the new requirement, Patricia said: “York Minster will require all visitors to wear face coverings during worship or while visiting for sightseeing. Visitors will be asked to bring their own face coverings or visors and will only be given entry to the cathedral if they are wearing them.
“We hope that all visitors will recognise the need to protect themselves and others and comply with Government guidelines. We will ask anyone over the age of 11 who is not wearing a mask to put one on before entering the cathedral. We will, however, be sensitive to anyone who says that they are exempt from wearing a face covering due to a health condition.”
From Saturday 8 August, York Minster’s full visitor opening hours will be:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11.00am until 4.30pm, last entry 3.30pm
Friday and Saturday 10.00am until 4.30pm, last entry 3.30pm
Sunday 12.30pm until 3.30pm, last entry 2.30pm.
Consecrations at York Minster
The Bishop of Doncaster and the Bishop of Sherwood
Monday 21 September
Two new Bishops will be consecrated in two separate services taking place at York Minster on Monday 21 September.
The Revd Canon Sophie Jelley, former Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry in the Diocese of Durham and Canon Missioner at Durham Cathedral, will be consecrated as Bishop of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield. Sophie will be consecrated in the morning by The Archbishop of York, The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, assisted by the Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler and the Bishop of Sheffield, Pete Wilcox.
In the afternoon, the Revd Dr Andrew Emerton, former Dean of St Mellitus College, London, will be consecrated as Bishop of Sherwood in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. Andrew will be consecrated by the Bishop of Durham, the Right Revd Paul Butler, assisted by the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Paul Williams. The Archbishop of York will preside at both services.
Celebrating the consecrations, Archbishop Stephen said: “I rejoice and I am looking forward to the consecrations of Bishop Sophie and Bishop Andy in York Minster. I invite you to join with me in celebration and in prayer for them and their families, for the Dioceses of Sheffield and Southwell and Nottingham. May God bless these, His servants and friends, as they embark on the next stage of their vocations as Bishops in the church of God.”
Commenting on Sophie’s consecration, The Bishop of Sheffield, the Right Revd Dr Pete Wilcox said:
“I am relieved and excited in equal measure that we now have a firm date for Canon Sophie’s consecration, delayed by the pandemic since 25 March. Sophie has inhabited the role of Bishop-designate to full effect, but it will be such a joy to welcome her fully into her episcopal ministry. I am especially glad that it will enable her to share collegially with me in the ordination of our priests and deacons at the end of September. I am also delighted that this will be Archbishop Stephen’s first consecration at York Minister and I look forward to the occasion immensely.”
Welcoming Andy’s consecration, The Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Right Revd Paul Williams said: “I am very thankful that Archbishop Stephen has confirmed that Andy Emerton will be consecrated Bishop of Sherwood on 21st September and delighted this will take place at York Minster, albeit with understandable restrictions at this present time. We greatly look forward to Andy’s ministry among us as bishop and to the part he will play in growing the Kingdom of God in this part of the East Midlands, alongside many other lay and ordained leaders. One of his first tasks will be to share with me in the ordination of 20 new priests and deacons on his first weekend as bishop.”
Sophie and Andy’s consecration services will take place in the context of the Eucharist and will include readings, prayers, music and a sermon. The services will be held under careful guidelines because of the Coronavirus pandemic with strict limits on the numbers attending. Both services will be live-streamed via You Tube so that friends, family and congregations can experience the services.
A new Cathedral Architect for York Minster
The Chapter of York today announced the appointment of Oliver Caroe, as the new Cathedral Architect – officially known as the Surveyor of the Fabric – for York Minster. Oliver succeeds Andrew Arrol who is retiring after 14 years in the role.
Working closely with the Director of Works and Precinct, the Cathedral Architect is Chapter’s principal professional adviser on all matters relating to the conservation and repair of the cathedral’s fabric and, from time-to-time, provides ad hoc project-based support and advice on the care and development of the Minster itself and its surrounding estate.
Welcoming Oliver’s appointment, the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York said:
“‘I am delighted by Oliver’s appointment and confident he will serve the Minster with distinction, just as Andrew Arrol did before him. Oliver brings imagination, intellectual energy and vast experience to the role of Surveyor of the Fabric. The team at York Minster looks forward to working with him as we embrace the responsibilities, challenges and opportunities of our moment in history.”
Dame Fiona Reynolds, Chair of the Cathedrals Fabric Advisory Commission for England (CFCE) said: “CFCE welcomes the appointment of Oliver Caroe as Surveyor of the Fabric to York Minster, and we thank Andrew Arrol for his 14 years of dedicated service. Oliver brings deep knowledge and understanding of the historic fabric alongside a lively appreciation of the contemporary challenges cathedrals face from his work at St Paul’s and Ripon, and we look forward to working with him in this new role.”
Oliver Caroe is one of the country’s foremost ecclesiastical architects. His work and experience spans many sectors. Architecture runs in Oliver’s veins: his great-grandfather was WD Caroe, who founded Caroe & Partners in 1884 and his grandfather and father both were also renowned conservation architects.
As an accredited specialist in conservation, Oliver has particular expertise in conserving, repairing and improving cathedrals and churches of all ages. His track record is equally strong as a designer of new buildings, from small residential projects to the more complex educational settings of Oxbridge colleges. He was appointed as architect to Ripon Cathedral in 2010, where he has led several significant conservation and repair projects and is currently working on a long-term masterplan. Oliver is also the Surveyor to the Fabric of St Paul’s Cathedral, a role he has held since 2011.
Commenting on his appointment, Oliver said: “The Chapter of York, oversees and cares for some of the most fantastic buildings and spaces on the planet. The cathedral precincts and the Minster stand at the heart of the City of York, proclaiming their welcome to everyone. Since I was a child in short trousers, dragged to cathedrals by my father, I have been awed and excited by these intricate and ingenious structures. Now, as a grown up conservation architect, I am no less thrilled and excited by the wondrous architecture and craft skills.
“Today I am most interested in what cathedrals can do in the 21st century as places of worship, as places where communities and people can meet and as vital and vibrant components of our historic cities.
“Chapter is leading the way in its partnership with the City of York and an emerging neighbourhood plan – which can transform the precincts for the citizens of York.
“Even as society works to plot a course out of the pandemic, even though this is a time of challenge and grieving for many, this is also an exciting time to be invited to join the cathedral as Surveyor. There is much to learn from the craftspeople – the masons and glaziers – the fundraisers, historians and archaeologists. My heart races, and it is a little daunting, but this is also a dream come true for someone who believes in the great good that cathedrals can do. So I much look forward to being of service to such a talented and committed team, and to our new Dean and Archbishop.”
Biographical details
Oliver Caroe, BA (Hons) Dipl Arch Cantab RIBA AABC
Surveyor to the Fabric, York Minster
Director and owner of Caroe Architecture Ltd, Oliver is one of the country’s foremost ecclesiastical architects. His work and experience spans many sectors. Residential projects, pure conservation and major commercial refurbishments are part of his repertoire, with particular emphasis on the sustainability of existing and historic buildings.
He was appointed as architect to Ripon Cathedral in 2010, where he has led several significant projects. These include the design and installation of new Narthex porches, scheduling and specifying a major programme of phased stonework repairs, the recent conservation of the medieval choirstalls, and he is working on a long-term masterplan.
Since 2011 Oliver has also been the Surveyor to the Fabric of St Paul’s Cathedral. In addition to the constant process of cleaning, repair and renewal, he has overseen projects ranging from the re-tanking of the galleries around the Dome, re-presenting the Crypt facilities, introducing new contemporary artwork commissions and working alongside the Collections team to conserve and rediscover the extensive collections, archives and the magnificent Wren Library on the Triforium level.
Oliver’s other major projects include: the conservation of Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds; a major programme of work of repair and renewal for the University Church in Oxford; the creation of an Archives Centre at St John’s College, Cambridge and a conservation programme for G.E. Street’s St Mary Magdalene, Paddington.
Oliver’s relevant experience includes:
Many projects of refurbishment and adaptive reuse of historic buildings
Conservation Management Planning and Estate Masterplanning for Emmanuel College Cambridge, the Nymans Estate and Ripon Cathedral
Major quinquennial inspections and programmes of repair and conservation on Grade 1 listed historic buildings
New and contemporary design in sensitive settings, including visitor facilities for the National Trust Wimpole Estate; Kings Cross Station, Almshouses in Saffron Walden, two buildings for the Scampston Estate, Yorkshire
Commissioning of new artworks and craft, including Bill Viola at St Paul’s Cathedral,new Gargoyles for Ripon Cathedral and new visual art commissions
Design review for the Church Buildings Council and Cambridge City Council Design and Conservation panel
Sustainability of ‘hard to treat’ historic buildings: Founder Member of the Church of England Shrinking the Footprint steering group.
York Minster achieves highest visitor numbers on recent record in 2019
York Minster had its highest visitor numbers on recent record in 2019, according to figures released by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) today (Wednesday 15 July).
The cathedral welcomed 706,484 people to worship in and explore the sacred space last year, up 2% on 2018 and its best visitor numbers on record since it introduced new recording practices in 2011.
The news, which sees the cathedral rise four places to number 53 in ALVA’s annual survey of its UK members’ visitor numbers, comes as the Minster reopened its doors to sightseeing visitors this weekend for the first time since 16 March.
The cathedral has been welcoming visitors for private prayer since 16 June, and reopened for services on Saturday 4 July, following the ease in lockdown measures.
The Right Reverend Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York, said: “Hospitality is at the heart of our life together at York Minster. We were delighted to welcome so many people from nearby and from around the globe in 2019 – our best visitor numbers on recent record.
“Although 2020 will look very different, we’re pleased to have reopened and are beginning to see old and new friends return. There are a thousand reasons to visit York Minster – all of them valid. Those making the journey to this magnificent sacred space will be made most welcome.”
It is thought the bumper visitor numbers in 2019 were due to a combination of the Northern Lights sound and light projection events which took place last October and were seen by 22,500 people, and the completion of the Great East Window in 2018.
The window, which is the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the country, and the stonework of the cathedral’s wider East End underwent a decade long conservation and restoration project, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and were unveiled in May 2018.
The Minster is currently open for sightseeing visitors Monday to Saturday 11am to 4pm and Sunday 12.30pm to 2.30pm and has put a number of measures in place to help keep both its staff and visitors safe.
These include limiting the number of people inside by asking sightseeing visitors to pre-book tickets online, a one-way system to allow people to physically distance from one another, hand sanitizer points, additional cleaning measures and staff and clergy wearing face masks and visors to welcome people.
For further details about the cathedral’s opening times, safety measures or to book tickets click HERE
The full list of attractions and their figure are available HERE
Archbishop Elect Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell to take his Crozier as 98th Archbishop of York
Bishop Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell, has today taken up the Braganza Crozier – his staff of office – in a short ceremony at York Minster, following his Confirmation of Election as the 98th Archbishop of York.
Watch below for clips of this historic occasion.
Please accept cookies to access this content
–
Pre-ceremony News Release
Bishop Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell, will today take up the historic Braganza Crozier – his staff of office – in a short ceremony at York Minster, following his Confirmation of Election as the 98th Archbishop of York.
Archbishop Elect Stephen’s Confirmation of Election service will be broadcast entirely via video conference due to the Covid-19 restrictions. This is available to watch at: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 11am on 9 July 2020.
The service will include music from York Minster Choir and Manor Church of England Academy, York. In the video resource that follows the service, young people from across the north of England will read a letter written by the medieval religious scholar Alcuin of York. Bishop Stephen will offer his first address as Archbishop of York. Prayers will be offered for the Archbishop, the Diocese of York and the Northern Province of the Church of England, as well as for the wider world in these difficult times.
Following the service, Archbishop Elect Stephen will make a short walk of pilgrimage to the shrine of St Margaret Clitherow. Here, he will be welcomed by the Rt Revd Terence Drainey, Roman Catholic Bishop of Middlesbrough. After a few moments of prayer, Archbishop Elect Stephen will then proceed to the crypt of York Minster where he will pray at the tomb of St William of York.
Archbishop Elect Stephen will move to the Quire of York Minster where he will take up his Crozier in front of a small, socially distanced gathering drawn from his immediate staff representing the Archbishop’s Leadership Team, Bishopthorpe Palace and York Minster.
Commenting on the ceremony, the Rt Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York said: “At a service of Enthronement, it is customary for a new bishop or Archbishop, to knock three times on the West Door with his or her Crozier to request admission. The pandemic has meant that we have to defer Archbishop Elect Stephen’s Enthronement service for a while. So the ceremony today is a simplified and low-key beginning to his ministry
“Once Archbishop Elect Stephen has picked up his Crozier from the High Altar he will move through the Minster to its West End. Here he will knock three times on the inside of the West Door which will then be opened to the world. This reversal of the usual symbolism, is intended to signify the openness of the Church to the world and reflects Archbishop Elect Stephen’s desire to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the communities it serves.”
Archbishop Elect Stephen spoke very positively about opening the doors at York Minster. He said: “The Church is the body of Christ. As such we are being formed in his likeness to be sent out into the world to bring hope, healing and wholeness. I like the symbolism of opening up the doors of the church as we go out and see and be where God is already at work.
“As I take up the role of Archbishop of York, my focus will be on prayer, and I want to begin by praying for the unity of the Church, for all those persecuted, and for the Northern Province of the Church of England. May we be united as the body of Christ, of one mind and purpose to see God’s Kingdom here on Earth.”
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby said: “I am so excited about working with Archbishop Stephen to communicate the good news of Jesus Christ. The next few years are going to be a huge adventure. We will be exploring our way into being a new Church in a new world.
“I’m sad we’re not able to all be together in York Minster to celebrate, yet. But we know that God is present to us at all times through the Holy Spirit. I’ll be praying for Archbishop Stephen as he officially begins his new ministry and as we begin that new adventure.”
Concluding, the Dean of York said: “We look forward to being able to gather more fully to celebrate the beginning of Archbishop Elect Stephen’s ministry in due course. For now, we are happy to welcome Stephen and his family in great love and we pray for him as he prepares for the challenges and the joys that his office will bring.”
To watch the Confirmation of Election service, please click on: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 11am on 9 July 2020.
To watch the video following the Confirmation of Election service, please click on: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 12pm on 9 July 2020.
Biographical details –Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York Elect
Born in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, in 1958, Stephen Cottrell was educated at Belfairs High School, Leigh-on-Sea, and the Polytechnic of Central London. He found faith as a teenager through the work of youth organisations in his local church. After a brief spell working in the film industry, he began training for ministry at St Stephen’s House, Oxford, in 1981 and was ordained deacon at the age of 26. He later studied for an MA with St Mellitus College.
Serving his curacy in Christ Church and St Paul’s, Forest Hill, south London, in the mid-1980s he was priest-in-charge at St Wilfrid’s, in Parklands, a council estate parish in Chichester from 1988 to 1993. He also served as Assistant Director of Pastoral Studies at Chichester Theological College at the same time.
He then moved to West Yorkshire, as Diocesan Missioner and Bishop’s Chaplain for Evangelism in the Diocese of Wakefield and in 1998 he took up the role of Springboard Missioner and Consultant in Evangelism. During his time in the diocese he adopted Huddersfield Town as his team alongside his beloved Spurs.
In 2001, he was called south to become Canon Pastor of Peterborough Cathedral and three years later was consecrated as Bishop of Reading. He took up his current role as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2010.
Author of more than 20 books including children’s books, he enjoys poetry, music and art. His 2013 book on the artist Stanley Spencer, Christ in the Wilderness, prompted a recent podcast reflection with Russell Brand, discussing the crucifixion and resurrection.
He has undertaken several pilgrimages, including twice walking the Camino to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, as well as pilgrim routes in England including to his future See in York.
A founding member of the Church of England’s College of Evangelists, he chairs a group of bishops with an interest in the media and is one of the authors of the Church of England’s Pilgrim course, a major teaching and discipleship resource. He also chairs the Board of Church Army. Based in Sheffield, but working across the British Isles, Church Army is an organisation committed to evangelism and social justice. He is Bishop Protector for the Society of St Francis.
Stephen was announced as the 98th Archbishop of York on 17 December 2019.
Stephen is married to Rebecca who is a potter. They have three sons.
About St Margaret Clitherow
A Roman Catholic, Margaret Clitherow (1556-1586), lived at a time when being a catholic was considered to be an act of treason. Executed in 1586, she was canonised in October 1970. Her shrine is located in a building in York’s medieval Shambles that used to be Margaret’s family home. For more information about St Margaret and to visit the shrine go to stwilfridsyork.org.uk
About St William of York
Believe to have been born in the late 11th century, William Fitzherbert was twice elected as Archbishop of York (1141 and 1153). He lived through turbulent times navigating religious and political intrigue. On his return to York in 1153 as Archbishop for the second time, the weight of jubilant crowds on the Ouse Bridge caused the structure to collapse into the river. William prayed to God to save the people from drowning and not a single life was lost. William died in 1154, widely believed to have been poisoned. The Miracle at Ouse Bridge and subsequent miraculous events attributed to William even after his death, resulted in his canonisation in 1224. His tomb is in the Crypt at York Minster.
About the Braganza Crozier
The wife of King Charles II, Queen Catherine of Braganza (1638-1705), was the daughter of King John IV who in 1640, became the first king of Portugal from the House of Braganza. Catherine presented the crozier to James Smith, Vicar Apostolic of the Northern District on his consecration as Bishop of Calliopolis (the old name for what is now known as Gallipolli in Turkey) in the Chapel of Somerset House on 13 May 1688. The Braganza Crozier is a silver pastoral staff made in four sections (unscrews) with special case. The design is crook leaf and dot with the main crook decorated with leaves and the line of dots (or small bells) on the outside edge terminates with a figure of Blessed Virgin and the Infant Jesus. Decorative detail includes the Coat of Arms of Portugal with a crown (Queen Catherine’s), five small shield and a Bishop’s hat with seven tassels.
York Minster reopens for public worship and sightseeing
York Minster will reopen for public worship on Saturday (4 July) and for sightseeing visits on Saturday 11 July.
The first public service to be held at the cathedral since it closed on 16 March will be Evening Prayer at 5.30pm on Saturday, followed by services of Morning Prayer (10am), Holy Communion (11am) and Evening Prayer (4pm) on Sunday (5 July).
In line with government and Church of England guidance, a number of measures have been put in place to help keep visitors and staff safe.
These include limiting the number of people allowed inside, reduced seating and a one-way system to allow people to physically distance from one another, hand sanitizer points, additional cleaning measures and staff and clergy wearing face masks and visors to welcome visitors. More information on the safety measures that have been put in place here.
Worshippers attending public services will also be asked to leave their name and contact details to assist with the NHS Test and Trace programme, in line with government guidance.
Initially, services will be simpler and shorter. Changes include no congregational singing or sharing of the Peace and the suspension of the Common Cup during Holy Communion will continue. There will also be no plate collection at the end of services, although people are encouraged to make a donation using contactless donation points inside the cathedral.
The Dean of York, the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost said: “We are delighted to open our doors again to welcome people for public worship and to explore this magnificent sacred space.
“Over the last few weeks we have welcomed many for individual prayer, but to gather again for worship – with relevant physical distancing measures in place – will be a huge encouragement for many.”
The regular service pattern at the cathedral from Tuesday 7 July will be Monday to Saturday Morning Prayer (7.30am), Holy Communion (7.50am) and Evening Prayer (5.30pm) and Sundays Morning Prayer (10am), Holy Communion (11am) and Evening Prayer (4pm).
While the cathedral has been closed its clergy have taken worship online, and will continue to produce a pre-recorded Evensong service broadcast at 4pm each Sunday via its website and social media channels for those who are unable to immediately return to the building for worship.
People have been able to visit the cathedral for individual prayer since Tuesday 16 June, and from Saturday 11 July the Minster will extend its opening hours for this and welcome its first sightseeing visitors since March.
General visiting hours will be Monday to Saturday 11am to 4pm, and Sunday 12.20pm to 2.30pm, and visitors coming for sightseeing will need to pre-book a timed arrival slot here, with tickets now available for visits from 11 – 31 July 2020.
Parts of the cathedral will initially remain closed including the Central Tower and Undercroft Museum and there will be no guided tours.
The Minster has been approved for the UK-wide ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard, launched this week by national tourism organisations for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, which demonstrates it is adhering to the respective Government and public health guidance. You can learn about the measures we’ve put in place to help keep everyone safe when they visit here.
Dean’s Park, the popular green space which runs along the north side of the cathedral, is already open daily from 10am and 6pm and the Minster Shops inside the cathedral and at Minster Gates are also open daily in line with general visiting times.