A new Assistant Organist for York Minster
A highly-accomplished musician has been appointed as York Minster’s new Assistant Organist. Adam Wilson will join the internationally-renowned York Minster music department on 21 August. Adam will join the cathedral’s music team led by Director of Music, Robert Sharpe and the Assistant Director of Music, Benjamin Morris.
Commenting on Adam’s appointment Robert Sharpe said: “I am looking forward to having Adam as part of our team, working alongside Ben Morris and me. He brings considerable experience from his time at Wells and I have no doubt he will enjoy being in York and getting to know the Minster, its people and its organ.”
Adam has been Acting Assistant Director of Music at Wells Cathedral since January 2023, having been Assistant Organist since September 2021. In this role, he is the principal Organist to the acclaimed Wells Cathedral Choir. As such, Adam has accompanied the full calendar of choral and civic services in the Cathedral, and has accompanied several concerts including Duruflé’s Requiem with the Cathedral Choir, Fauré’s Requiem and Rutter’s Magnificat with the Cathedral Oratorio Society, as well as various programmes in which he has played continuo.
In addition to his duties as an Organist, Adam has played a key role in assisting the Acting Director of Music in training the Choristers, particularly in being responsible for the musical development of the probationer Choristers, and in the running of the Music Department.
Prior to his appointment at Wells Cathedral, Adam spent two years as Acting Assistant Master of the Music at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh, (including a period as Acting Master of the Music) where he was involved in the restoration of the cathedral’s 1879 ‘Father’ Willis organ. He has also held organ scholarships at Peterborough Cathedral, St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow, and Dunblane Cathedral.
In 2016, Adam was commissioned by Cottier Chamber Music Project to transcribe Scriabin’s symphonic epic, Prometheus: The Poem of Fire, for organ and piano. The performance, with pianist Nick Lauener, explored the traits of synesthesia, a neurological condition where senses overlap, in musicians. The music was accompanied by a light show which illuminated the chapel in a display designed around Scriabin’s own instructions for the use of a ‘colour organ’ in Prometheus, in collaboration with Glasgow Science Festival.
Professor Sarah Brown awarded 2023 Plowden Medal for outstanding work in the field of stained glass conservation
The Director of the York Glaziers Trust, Professor Sarah Brown, has been awarded the 2023 Plowden Medal for Conservation for her significant and globally renowned contribution to the stained glass conservation sector. The Plowden Medal is awarded annually by The Royal Warrant Holders’ Association to recognise the individual who has made the most significant recent contribution to the advancement of the conservation profession.
Professor Brown and her team at York Glaziers Trust are responsible for the conservation and care of the magnificent stained glass windows at York Minster. York Minster’s windows contain the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in Britain. Professor Brown led the ground-breaking 10-year project to repair and conserve the cathedral’s famed Great East Window, the stained glass masterpiece created more than 600 years ago by the medieval master glazier John Thornton.
Expert conservators at the Trust spent a combined 92,400 hours meticulously conserving the glass in the Great East Window. The project mixed traditional skills with pioneering technology to repair and conserve the stained glass. York Minster was the first cathedral in the UK to install state-of-the-art, UV resistant external glazing to protect the priceless stained glass.
In 2017, York Minster announced a 20-year partnership project with York Glaziers Trust and the York Minster Fund to protect all of the cathedral’s windows from environmental damage. Professor Brown and her team are currently working on 600 year-old stained glass in the cathedral’s South Quire Aisle as part of an 11 year, multi-million pound conservation and restoration project to repair glass and stonework.
Congratulating Professor Brown on the award of The Plowden Medal, The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York said: “We were absolutely thrilled to learn that Sarah has received this award. Her outstanding expertise, scholarship and leadership in her field is internationally renowned as is her tireless commitment to the sector more widely, particularly in identifying and bringing-on the next generation of specialist conservators.
“Created for the glory of God, the restoration of the Great East Window carried out by Sarah and her team, gives modern pilgrims and visitors the chance to experience John Thornton’s masterpiece as it was first seen 600 years ago. Sarah is one of those special people who understands the long term impact of their work to improve on the work of those who have gone before and to make things better for those who will follow. She is a careful custodian and representative of her sector. We are honoured to have her alongside us at York Minster. The Plowden Medal is a tremendous accolade for Sarah.”
York and New York honour 100 years of civic partnership
The long-standing historic links between the cities of York and New York has been officially commemorated with the gifting of a ledger stone created by York Minster masons.
Presented as part of a Company dinner on Tuesday 11 July 2023, this momentous event also signified the formal affiliation of the Company of the Merchant Adventurers of the City of York and the St George’s Society of New York. Both organisations date back centuries and have shared core values of philanthropy, economic growth and enrichment through education.
The connections between the two cities are similarly deep rooted. Not only do they have an unbreakable link through the history of their names – dating back to 1664 when New York was named – but in 1924, New York presented the city of York with a bronze plaque, which is currently housed in the York Guildhall, to mark their unique bond.
The ledger stone, an inscribed stone slab usually laid into the floor of a church, has been specially crafted to mark the centenary of this gift. It was created by stonemason Richard Bossons, who was responsible for designing York Minster’s recently unveiled statue of Queen Elizabeth II. The stone was unveiled by HRH Duke of Gloucester, Patron of the St George’s Society New York at the Company dinner.
The plaque and ledger stone will be displayed together for public viewing at York Guildhall before the stone is shipped to New York early next year. It will be formally unveiled by the Archbishop of York, during a special evensong and civic reception at the Church of St Thomas in New York on 5th May 2024, to mark the centenary of this unique bond. York Minster shares a close relationship with St Thomas’ Church through its liturgy and music.
The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “York and New York have long collaborated on the international stage, forging connections between each city’s world-renowned institutions, including universities, businesses and cultural establishments. We’re delighted to be commemorating the centenary of this historic moment, and in particular to be doing so by showcasing the heritage craft skills of our talented team of stonemasons, whose efforts are absolutely crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for the Minster.
“Beyond the twinning of these two historic institutions, we hope to further develop connections between York and New York, as well as consequently helping to strengthen the city of York’s already strong position on the world stage through our international Centre of Excellence.”
York Minster, which has recently launched a fundraising campaign for its Centre of Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills, is one of just ten remaining cathedrals with a team of in-house craftspeople responsible for its conservation. The Centre of Excellence seeks to preserve and innovate these skills through the introduction of cutting-edge technology, as well as offering further training and development opportunities in these skills through international exchanges and partnerships.
Mr Joe Horsley, Governor of the Company of Merchant Adventurers, said: “This commitment of affiliation is a significant strengthening of our Company and the St Georges Society, with whom we share values, charitable efforts and provide a place of fellowship for and between our members. We are pleased to play our part in the wider connection between our cities and are particularly honoured to have welcomed HRH The Duke of Gloucester to our Hall to unveil the leger stone and meet our members.”
The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Chris Cullwick said: “It is a fantastic honour to have been invited to celebrate the friendship between our two great, historic cities through the unveiling of a ledger stone that is to be presented in New York next summer. The Minster’s masons’ exceptional work will take pride of place at a world-famous location in central Manhattan, putting York even more firmly on the world map.
“I look forward to welcoming the St. George’s Society to York and working with them, the Minster and others, both here and in the United States, to strengthen links and maximise the benefits that this historic relationship brings.”
David Drinkwater, President of the St George’s Society of New York, added: “We are delighted that the allegiance between our two cities continues to blossom and that our pact to help those in need remains unwavering. With the invaluable support from members both near and far, St. George’s Society of New York takes immense pride in our charitable programs designed to safeguard our community from adversity while empowering students to unlock their academic potential.”
Sung Eucharist attended by the General Synod of the Church of England
Officers and members of the General Synod of the Church of England will attend the Sung Eucharist service at York Minster at 11.00am on Sunday 9 July. The General Synod’s July meeting will take place in York from 7 -11 July.
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, will preside at the service. The Preacher will be the Most Revd Cyril Kobina Ben-Smith, Primate of the Church of the Province of West Africa. The Choir of York Minster will perform at the service.
All are welcome to attend the service.
Shining a light on outstanding effort and dedication: A significant award for Chapter of York Canon Linda Ali
Canon Linda Ali, a member of the Chapter of York, the governing body for York Minster, was last week presented with the Canterbury Cross by the Archbishop of Canterbury, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, at the Lambeth Awards ceremony for Services to the Church of England. Linda was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the cause of Racial Justice in society and in the Church of England over 25 years.
The 33 award-winners included people from the Church of England, the wider Anglican Communion, a mix of other denominations and people who have no faith. This year’s recipients included poets, educators, activists, clergy, peacemakers as well as many unsung people who have dedicated their working lives to the promotion of faith and in the service of God’s witness. The recipients work all over the world including New Zealand, Egypt, Russia, Italy, Australia, the USA and the Solomon Islands and the UK.
Speaking last week, The Archbishop said: “We live in a troubled world, where all around us we see conflict, war, discrimination, division, poverty and deep inequality, but our faith in Jesus gives us hope. We see that hope exemplified in the wonderful service of the people we have recognised today.”
“Many of the people who have received awards have worked unseen and unsung, striving for justice, peace, reconciliation, advances in education, worship and prayer. Not all are followers of Jesus Christ, but, through their endeavours, they have made significant contributions to the mutual respect and maintenance of human dignity, which is so vital to spiritual and social health and the flourishing of mankind. The Lambeth Awards shine a light on their outstanding efforts and dedication.”
Canon Linda said: “I was absolutely surprised to receive the news that I was to be presented with this award. I can only say that I would be hugely grateful to the kind and generous person who thought I was deserving of such a special award and nominated me to receive it. The ceremony at Lambeth Palace was a wonderful occasion, on a warm sunny day, meeting the other 33 recipients and their guests, to be presented with the Canterbury Cross by Archbishop Justin and to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea afterwards. The afternoon ended as it should with evening prayer to thank God for his abundance of goodness he has bestowed on us all.”
A summer of music, theatre, and family fun at York Minster
Spend your summer at York Minster with an exciting programme that includes the cathedral’s ever popular Summer Organ Recital series, innovative theatre and classic cinema both in the glorious surroundings of Dean’s Park, fascinating exhibitions and fun new trails for children and families to help them explore the medieval Minster.
Summer visitors to the York Minster Precinct will also be able to experience two new welcoming, green spaces both with wonderful views of the cathedral: a newly revamped and replanted College Green and Minster Gardens, a peaceful new garden oasis next door to the York Minster Refectory. These green spaces have been planted with trees, shrubs, flowers, grass and wildflower turf all specially selected to provide colour and scent all summer long. Perfect for wildlife and pollinators, picnics and a peaceful escape from the heat and bustle of the city.
General admission is free for York residents and students with valid proof of a York address. Don’t forget that up to four children aged 17 and under go free with a paying adult. General admission tickets last up to 12 months so visitors can keep their ticket and return for as many summer activities as they like.
York Minster’s full summer programme is as follows:
Majesty: Monarchy & York Minster
Free with General Admission
Discover York Minster’s royal connections and collections through an exhibition exploring the cathedral’s centuries-old relationship with the monarchy in celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III.
Maths Quest and Light Quest
Free with General Admission
Look for shapes, patterns, colours, light and numbers as you journey around York Minster on our brand-new children’s trails – Maths Quest and Light Quest. Perfect to keep little brains busy over the summer holidays!
Little Explorer Backpacks
Free with General Admission
Grab one of our ever-popular Little Explorer Backpacks filled with gadgets including maps, binoculars, and a magnifying glass to help your young adventurer explore the medieval Minster.
Undercroft Museum
Free with General Admission
Follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers as you discover 2000 years of history in our state-of-the-art Undercroft Museum. Delve beneath the cathedral’s floor and see archaeological finds from across the centuries through digital displays and interactive chambers.
Climb the Central Tower
See medieval stonework and gothic grotesques up-close as you climb the 275 steps to the top of York Minster’s Central Tower, the highest point in York, for panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy our green spaces
Relax in Dean’s Park, College Green or the brand-new Minster Gardens and take in these vibrant green spaces nestled in the heart of York. Perfect for family picnics and dog walks.
Orchestral Evensong in partnership with St Peter’s School
Wednesday 28 June, 5.30pm
Join the Chapel Choir of St Peter’s School and the Choir of York Minster for a special Orchestral Evensong to mark the Feast of St Peter, the cathedral’s patron saint.
The choirs will sing Stanford’s Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in B flat and the anthem All wisdom cometh from the Lord by Dr Philip Moore, Organist Emeritus of York Minster.
This service will also be livestreamed.
Open air theatre in Dean’s Park by The Three Inch Fools
Friday 23 June, Sunday 25 June, Friday 15 September & Saturday 16 September, 7.30pm
Rushed off their feet with musical instruments in hand, a hapless troupe of actors is coming to Dean’s Park with endless costume changes, chaotic comedies and confusion.
The Three Inch Fools are bringing their innovative touring theatre company to York Minster this summer for fast-paced, musically-driven outdoor theatre with performances of legendary folktale Robin Hood and Shakespeare’s most chaotic comedy As You Like It.
Summer Organ Recitals
Thursdays 20 July – 24 August, 7.00pm
Experience York Minster’s magnificent Grand Organ through a series of summer recitals. Join world-class visiting organists alongside York Minster’s own accomplished musicians for six evenings of spectacular organ music in the cathedral’s awe-inspiring Nave.
Programme highlights include much-loved classics from Debussy, Bach and Widor, as well as exciting contemporary compositions.
– Thursday 20 July, John Scott Whiteley
– Thursday 27 July, Benjamin Morris
– Thursday 3 August, Katherine Dienes-Williams
– Thursday 10 August, Robert Quinney
– Thursday 17 August, Colin Walsh
– Thursday 24 August, Robert Sharpe.
Tickets are now available for just £12, with a combined season ticket price of £60 for all six recitals. A concession ticket for under-27s priced at £5 is also available.
Luna Cinema in Dean’s Park
Tuesday 29 August, Wednesday 30 August & Thursday 31 August, 8.00pm
The UK’s leading open-air cinema is returning to York Minster’s Dean’s Park with a line-up of all the latest blockbusters, alongside classic feel-good favourites on the big screen.
See Elvis, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and Sister Act against the beautiful backdrop of the medieval Minster.
Triple consecration service at York Minster – Thursday 22 June
Three new Bishops will be consecrated at York Minster at 11.00am on Thursday 22 June. The Revd Dr Matthew Porter, currently Vicar of St Michael le Belfrey, York, will become the new Bishop of Bolton in the Diocese of Manchester. The Revd Canon Smitha Prasadam, currently Chaplain of St Albans, Copenhagen, Denmark, will become the new Bishop of Huddersfield and the Revd Canon Anna Eltringham will become the new Bishop of Ripon, both in the Diocese of Leeds.
The Most Revd and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, will preside at the service.
The service will be livestreamed on York Minster’s YouTube Channel. British Sign Language will be available during the service.
York Minster opens new ‘Minster Gardens’ ahead of bank holiday weekend
‘Minster Gardens’ has been opened to the public by the Dean of York for the city and visitors to enjoy following the completion of works. The new gardens feature a spectacular view of the cathedral and include extensive lawns, wildflower planting and new benches set in landscaped borders. The gardens will also include a drinking fountain for members of the public to refill their water bottles and is adjacent to extensive cycle parking and the new cycle maintenance point. The planting has been selected especially to attract bees and increase biodiversity within the Precinct. The gardens were designed by Re-Form Landscape Architects as part of the wider development of the York Minster Refectory which opened in April.
His Majesty King Charles III unveiled an official ledger stone to mark the creation of the new gardens following the Royal Maundy at York Minster on 6 April 2023 and this has been set into the main entrance. The ledger stone was carved by Richard Bossons, the Minster stonemason who designed and created the statue of the late Queen which now stands on the West Front of the Minster. Minster Gardens will be open daily from 07:30 to 17:30. All are welcome to enjoy this new greenspace.
York Minster’s new Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture The Revd Canon Timothy Goode
The Chapter of York today announced the appointment of The Revd Canon Timothy Goode, currently Rector of St Margaret’s Church Lee in the Diocese of Southwark, London, as Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nuture at York Minster.
In this new role, Timothy’s focus will be to grow, develop and support the life and witness of the many congregations in the Minster, creating opportunities to encounter the Christian faith and to nurture those seeking to understand and explore their faith journey.
Timothy will develop and train a pastoral team and co-ordinate pastoral care for those in the community including congregations, volunteers and staff and look at ways to deliver pastoral care to visitors including the support and development of the cathedral’s duty Chaplains. He will be the first point of contact for the arrangements of key life events such as baptisms, weddings and funerals. He will also lead work to develop and nurture Children and Families Ministry and work with the city’s university chaplains to create a faith network for students and young people in Ministry.
Commenting on Timothy’s appointment, The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell said:
“I couldn’t be more delighted about Tim’s appointment. Tim is a gifted communicator, a strategic thinker, a loving pastor and a compelling advocate for the Christian faith. I’ve got to know Tim a bit through his membership of the General Synod and the Archbishops’ Council. I very much look forward to welcoming him and Bernie to York.”
Timothy will be part of the cathedral clergy team led by The Dean of York, The Very Revd Dominic Barrington. Dominic said:
“I am enormously excited that Tim will be joining the clergy team this autumn. His ministry as a parish priest has been exciting and distinguished, and his enthusiasm for the gospel is infectious. I am confident that he will bring great gifts to the life of this cathedral church, and help us grow in mission, ministry and service.”
Timothy and his family will move to York in the summer with Timothy starting his new role on 9 September. Commenting on his new role, Timothy said:
‘I am so thrilled to become the new Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture at York Minster. It is an exciting time to be joining the Minster community, especially starting so soon after the arrival of the new Dean. I am so looking forward to getting to know all who worship, who work and who volunteer at York Minster.
“It will be a wrench to leave St Margaret’s Lee, which has been my spiritual home for the past five years and where I have learnt and received so much. But I am looking forward to returning north to Yorkshire where I spent three very happy years studying music at Huddersfield and during which time I was a regular visitor to York. I am particularly looking forward to being a Canon at York Minster where I have also so enjoyed visiting for our Sunday worship during the York General Synods each July.”
Biographical details – Revd Canon Timothy Goode
Tim studied Music at Huddersfield Polytechnic and trained as a secondary school teacher at the Roehampton Institute. He was Director of Music of Homefield School from 1995-2007. He trained for ministry at Ripon College Cuddesdon and served his title at Croydon Minster, in the Diocese of Southwark and was ordained priest in 2010.
From September 2012 to May 2018, Tim was Team Vicar of St Luke’s Whyteleafe and St Peter and St Paul, Chaldon, part of the Caterham Team ministry. From 2013 to 2021 he was also the Southwark Diocesan Disability Advisor. Since May 2018 he has been the Rector of St Margaret’s Lee in the Southwark Diocese.
Tim is a member of the National Disability Task Group, which advises the Archbishops of Canterbury and York on disability issues. Since 2015, Tim has been a member of the General Synod and he led the first debate on disability at the General Synod in July 2022.
Since February 2021 he has been a member of Archbishops’ Council. Tim was made an Honorary Canon of Southwark Cathedral in September 2020 and has been a trustee of the Churches Conservation Trust since November 2020.
Tim is married to Bernie who is Head of the Science Faculty at Sutton High School Surrey and is looking forward to joining St Peter’s School, York in the Autumn.
Tim is disabled and his theological work is particularly focused on the Theology of Disability and especially on articularing a Christian Anthropology rooted in the risen body of Jesus Christ.
York Minster marks further sustainability milestone with Deangate retrofit project
York Minster has hailed the positive effects of its ground-breaking Neighbourhood Plan as it plans the delivery of its first low carbon retrofit project.
The Neighbourhood Plan sets out a 15-year policy led approach to create a sustainable future for York Minster and its seven-hectare estate.
In the latest positive development for its delivery, plans to sustainably convert and refurbish 1 Deangate in the Minster Precinct have been given the go ahead by City of York Council.
The building will become offices and welfare facilities for the Minster’s Visitor Experience staff and volunteers.
It is the third recent major planning consent for renewable energy projects linked to York Minster’s decarbonisation strategy, following permissions for photovoltaic and solar panels on the roofs of the cathedral’s South Quire Aisle and soon-to-be-launched Refectory restaurant.
With these and the forthcoming Centre of Excellence project, the Minster is set to generate an average of 170,000 kilowatt-hours of power annually, the equivalent of over half of the Minster’s overall use.
The 1 Deangate retrofit project will see the addition of new technology to an older building and include the latest in sustainable design and performance, including real-time energy use, water efficiency equipment and air-source heat pumps.
It will be fully insulated and include a warm room and double-glazed wooden sliding sash windows in keeping with the building’s original architecture.
The Dean of York, the Very Revd Dominic Barrington, said: “The redevelopment of 1 Deangate is another major milestone in our journey towards net zero, with other similar projects set to follow as funding allows.
“Retrofitting our historical buildings is supported by a recent report commissioned by the National Trust, Historic England and other leading property organisations which found that improving the energy efficiency of aged properties could reduce carbon emissions from the UK’s buildings by 5% each year, whilst making them cheaper to run.”
Commenting on the wider Neighbourhood Plan, Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, added: “Our Neighbourhood Plan has set a trailblazing approach, not only for planning matters, but crucially for enabling us to safeguard the Minster and to create a sustainable future for both the cathedral building and its surrounding Precinct.
“We are extremely proud of the leading role we are playing in challenging the established narrative around the conservation of historic buildings. Our approach is a shining example of best practice in managing complex heritage estates and how to secure their long-term environmental, financial and heritage sustainability for future generations to enjoy.”
York Minster’s Centre of Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills and Estate Management is the pioneer project in the Neighbourhood Plan. Expected to be completed by mid-2024, it will establish the York Minster Precinct as a world class campus facility for research, education and training in ancient craft skills.
It will bring benefits including continuing the craft of stonemasonry through upskilling its heritage estates team and extending the number of apprenticeship placements the Minster offers. And by forging international partnerships with a network of cathedrals worldwide, it will ensure the specialist skills required to implement necessary and urgent change are in place whilst respecting and protecting the Minster’s history and heritage.
For more information about the York Minster Neighbourhood Plan, visit here.
York Minster to host special performances of Peter and the Wolf to introduce children to classical music
Join brave young Peter as he overcomes his fear of a big bad wolf in Sergei Prokofiev’s classic Peter and the Wolf played on York Minster’s newly-refurbished Grand Organ.
Hear captivating instrumental characterisations of Peter’s animal friends as a live feed of the cathedral’s marvellous organ played by Ben Morris, Assistant Director of Music at York Minster, is shown on screens to the audience. Using special stops on the organ, Ben will guide young listeners through the sounds of this magnificent instrument. The performance will be narrated by Stuart Perry, the Silly History Boys’ silliest boy.
Prokofiev’s familiar and accessible composition is the perfect introduction to classical music. During the performance, children are encouraged to sit on cushions and rugs at the front of the Nave to get the best possible view of the organ. The performance will last 30 minutes and is suitable for those aged 5 to 95.
Ben Morris, Assistant Director of Music at York Minster, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming people of all ages into the cathedral to experience the magnificent sound of our Grand Organ. Peter and the Wolf uses vivid musical motifs to introduce children to classical music in a fun and accessible way.”
The performances will take place on Wednesday 31 May and Thursday 1 June at 7.30pm and will last approximately 30 minutes.
Tickets are now available via York Minster’s website and cost £8 for an adult and £6 for a child. A family ticket of £22 for two adults and two children is also available.
Tickets can also be booked by contacting the York Minster Box Office on 01904 557200.
Services and events at York Minster for the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
York Minster will mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III with worship, music, exhibitions and an event to recruit more volunteers as part of The Big Help Out, the national charity for the Coronation.
Commenting on the Coronation weekend at the cathedral, the Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York said: “The Coronation of our new Monarch is a momentous and significant event in the life of the nation and the Commonwealth. I am sure that we will all celebrate the magnificent, dazzling and colourful pageantry of this immensely historic occasion.
“However at the heart of the ceremony will be a man of deep religious faith, dedicating his life to duty and service and committing himself to the care of our Saviour Jesus Christ. I think many people will be deeply moved by the religious ritual and symbolism of a unique service that the vast majority of us will be witnessing for the very first time.
“At York Minster there will be services and prayers for the King and for the Royal Family throughout the weekend. Our celebrations will include bell ringing, an invitation for people to visit the cathedral with family and friends and to picnic in the Minster’s gardens. We will also be joining the Coronation’s national charity campaign, The Big Help Out where we hope to get people excited and interested in becoming a volunteer at York Minster.”
Friday 5 May
5.30pm – Choral Evensong for the Eve of the Coronation
At this special Evensong service on the eve of the Coronation, the Choir of York Minster will perform Handel’s Zadok the Priest. The sermon will be given by Canon Dr Victoria Johnson, Precentor
Saturday 6 May
Coronation Day – York Minster open as normal
Our services will be said today and will include prayers for the new King. York Minster will be open for worship and sightseeing as usual.
Exhibition: Majesty: Monarchy & York Minster
Visit the cathedral’s Majesty: Monarchy & York Minster exhibition specially updated for the Coronation. The exhibition traces the influence of the monarchy throughout York Minster’s history through items in the Minster’s collections. Highlights include: a Bible and matching Prayer Book, bound in red velvet and finely decorated in silver with the keys of St Peter, purchased by York Minster with a grant from King Charles I; a Minster Police truncheon with royal arms; Maundy Money distributed by Queen Elizabeth II during her last visit to York Minster in 2012, and the Great Seal of Queen Anne used to authenticate important documents.
Sunday 7 May
All of our services will include prayers for the new King.
8am – Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer)
10am – Choral Matins
11am – Sung Eucharist
This service will give thanks and praise to God and mark the Coronation through music and a sermon given by The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York.
2.30pm – ‘Ring for the King’- Quarter Peal Attempt
Bring a picnic to Dean’s Park and enjoy the space whilst listening to York Minster’s Bell Ringers attempt a celebratory quarter peal on our bells. The Minster’s bells are the fourth heaviest ring of 12 in the world. The team will ring a minimum of 1250 changes during the quarter peal attempt which will last around an hour.
4pm – A Special Commemorative Service for the Coronation of King Charles III
The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, will preach at this special civic service. Music by the Choir of York Minster will include Parry’s Coronation anthem ‘I was glad’ and Byrd’s O Lord, ‘Make thy servant Charles our King’.
All are welcome.
Monday 8 May
9.30am –‘Ring for the King’ – Full Peal Attempt
The cathedral’s bell ringing team will ascend the bell tower once again, this time to make a spectacular full peal attempt in honour of the new Monarch. A full peal is a real test of bell-ringing virtuosity consisting of more than 5,000 changes rung non-stop without any change being repeated. The full peal attempt will take around four hours to complete.
The Big Help Out – Volunteer at York Minster
Thousands of organisations across the country will be getting together for The Big Help Out, the national charity campaign marking the Coronation by encouraging people everywhere to have a go at volunteering. York Minster relies on the support of over 400 volunteers to enhance the experience and enjoyment of people, worshipping at and visiting the cathedral. Volunteer is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people and to get involved in the life of the cathedral. Information about volunteering at the Minster will be available during the day or online at Volunteer | York Minster. For more information about The Big Help Out go to www.thebighelpout.org.uk