York Minster to host inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture
The Revd Nontombi Tutu, Episocopal priest and human rights activist, daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, will lead the inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture at York Minster on Tuesday 17 September.
The lecture, which will take place in the cathedral’s Nave, is entitled ‘Truth, The Path to Reconciliation’. Revd Nontombi will draw upon scholarly perspectives, particularly from Africa and the global majority world, to deepen comprehension and inspire action towards dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing just communities. The event aims to provide a forum for critical reflection on the intersection of religion and social justice.
In tribute to Desmond Tutu’s legacy of scholarly reflection and contemplation, the Desmond Tutu Centre for Religion and Social Justice at the University of Western Cape and United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG) have established an annual Desmond Tutu Memorial Lecture on Religion and Social Justice. In future years, distinguished speakers and thought leaders will be invited to examine contemporary issues through the lens of Archbishop Tutu’s enduring legacy. Drawing upon scholarly perspectives, particularly from Africa and the global majority world, the lecture series aims to deepen comprehension and inspire action toward dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing just communities.
The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “It is an honour and delight to host the inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture at York Minster. Archbishop Tutu was a unique prophetic voice in the apartheid era of his native South Africa, with a legacy that lives on across the globe.
“In an age when we continue to be conscious of so many injustices that blight the lives of people near and far, we are delighted to welcome Revd Nontombi Tutu to educate and challenge us in this first lecture in honour of her father’s work.”
The Revd Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar at USPG said: “We are delighted that our inaugural lecture has a speaker of Revd Nontombi’s high calibre, and I am very much looking forward to hearing her wisdom. It is our hope that by annually convening scholars, theologians, activists, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds, in the UK and in South Africa, that this lecture series will cultivate critical inquiry, collaboration, and collective action toward a more just and compassionate world.”
The event, which will begin at 7pm, is free to attend. Doors will open at 6.30pm and attendees are encouraged to register their interest via the USPG website HERE.
Traditional services, beautiful Christmas Trees and spectacular concerts
York Minster is preparing to mark Advent and Christmas with a programme of new services and events for 2024, alongside returning seasonal favourites, family-friendly activities and a festival of Christmas Trees.
From moments of quiet reflection, away from the hustle and bustle of York’s festive streets, to the cathedral’s most popular events of the year, the special services, events and activities will celebrate the season’s themes of anticipation, hope and joy.
The season begins on Advent Sunday (1 December), with the spectacular Advent Procession. Starting in complete darkness, the cathedral is gradually illuminated by candlelight as the Choir of York Minster moves through the building to readings from the Bible. Daily worship throughout Advent and Christmas will include prayers, music and readings as the season progresses.
Christmas week worship includes the Crib Service (24 December), Nine Lessons and Carols (22 and 24 December) and Midnight Mass (24 December). The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, will preach at the Sung Eucharist for Christmas Day at 11am (25 December).
From Saturday 30 November (until Sunday 5 January 2025), the ever-popular York Minster Christmas Tree Festival returns with 70 trees, individually decorated by local businesses, schools and charities, on display in the cathedral’s Chapter House, Nave and Lady Chapel.
York Minster will host a range of exciting concerts, from family-favourite The Nutcracker and the return of the well-known choral groups The Chapter House Choir and Gabrieli Roar, to a new performance by The Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band. The cathedral’s much-loved Christmas Carol Concerts return on 11 and 12 December, with readings by actor Sue Devaney (Coronation Street), and music by the Choir of York Minster and the Yorkshire Volunteer Band.
The Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “As we move towards the great seasons of Advent and Christmas, we are conscious not only of the nights drawing in, but of the considerable darkness afflicting much of the world, including the region that Christians often call the Holy Land.
“The season of Advent helps us prepare for the coming into the world of a light which is inextinguishable, and on each Sunday of that season, another candle will be lit on our great Advent Wreath to symbolise that light which the world has not, and cannot overcome.
“I hope you will visit the Minster during this wonderful, powerful season and let that light transform your life this Christmas.”
York Minster’s Advent and Christmas programme is set out below. For booking information visit www.yorkminster.org or call the Bookings Team on 01904 557200.
York Minster’s Advent and Christmas Programme 2024:
Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cantata 140, Sleepers, wake
Sunday 24 November, 4pm
On the Sunday before Advent, the Choir of York Minster gives its traditional annual Evensong performance of Bach’s popular Cantata 140, ‘Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme’ (Sleepers, wake), with orchestral accompaniment.
Free, no tickets required.
The York Minster Christmas Tree Festival
Saturday 30 November – Sunday 5 January 2025, during general admission times
York Minster Christmas Tree Festival returns for the fourth year with 70 trees on display in the cathedral’s stunning Nave, Chapter House and Lady Chapel.
Included with general admission.
Minster Mash-Up: Lights switch-on
Saturday 30 November, 10am
Join York Minster’s worship for young people and families – Minster Mash-Up – and get ready for Advent. Families are invited to join us at the lights switch-on for the York Minster Christmas Tree Festival as we prepare to mark the beginning of Advent and await the arrival of baby Jesus.
Free, no tickets required.
Advent Procession
Sunday 1 December, 5.30pm
On Advent Sunday, York Minster gradually emerges from darkness into full candlelight in the stunning and atmospheric Advent Procession. The Choir of York Minster will process through the cathedral to music, readings and prayers.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.
A Grand Georgian Christmas with Gabrieli Roar
Friday 6 December, 7.15pm
Following the successful Praetorius tour in 2022, Gabrieli Roar presents A Grand Georgian Christmas. Led by Gabrieli Artistic Director Paul McCreesh, over 4,000 late-primary and secondary students will join Gabrieli’s world-class musicians across eleven performances in regional cathedrals around the UK, from Cumbria to Cornwall.
Tickets available in the autumn.
The Nutcracker at York Minster
Saturday 7 December, 7pm
A magical performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker from York Minster for children and adults alike. Narration by local children’s actor Gemma Sharp (Artistic Director of local theatre company Hoglets), and music by Benjamin Morris, York Minster’s Assistant Director of Music, who will bring Tchaikovsky’s music to life on the cathedral’s spectacular Grand Organ.
Tickets priced between £7 and £30 available via yorkminster.org
Christmas Carol Concerts
Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 December, 7pm
The Choir of York Minster will perform much-loved Christmas music, with seasonal readings from special guest Sue Devaney and music by the Yorkshire Volunteer Band.
Brighouse and Rastrick Band Concert
Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm
The world-famous Brighouse and Rastrick Band arrive at York Minster for a fabulous festive concert of Christmas pieces, medleys and carols to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Tickets available in the autumn.
Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light
Monday 16 December, 7pm
An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebration. The service is run in partnership with the York Anglo-Scandinavian Society.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.
Chapter House Choir ‘Carols by Candlelight’
Friday 20 December, 7.30pm
The choir continues to build on its reputation as one of the North of England’s finest chamber choirs, under the leadership of Musical Director Benjamin Morris. The Chapter House Choir will be joined by the Chapter House Youth Choir.
Tickets available in the autumn.
Nine Lessons and Carols
Sunday 22 & Tuesday 24 December, 4pm
Two services consisting of nine special readings, carols sung by the Choir of York Minster and hymns for everyone to join in. A traditional Christmas celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.
Crib Service
Tuesday 24 December, 11.30am
The Christmas story in a fun and accessible service for families with carols and musical accompaniment. Children are encouraged to dress up as characters from the Nativity and the highpoint of the service will be the blessing of the crib, with the opportunity for children to come and see it before they leave the cathedral.
Free, no tickets required.
Midnight Mass
Tuesday 24 December, 11.30pm
Experience the First Eucharist of Christmas with choral music sung by the St William’s Singers.
Free, no tickets required.
Christmas Day Services
Wednesday 25 December
York Minster celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.
8am: Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer
10am: Choral Matins sung by the Choir of York Minster
11am: Sung Eucharist sung by the Choir of York Minster, with sermon by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York.
4pm: Choral Evensong sung by the Choir of York Minster.
The cathedral will be open free of charge from 12.45pm – 3pm.
New Year’s Eve bells
Tuesday 31 December
York Minster’s Bellringers will ring in the new year as the clock strikes midnight.
Sung Eucharist for the Feast of the Epiphany
Sunday 5 January 2025, 11am
A special service to mark the Feast of the Epiphany with music sung by St Paul’s College Choir, University of Sydney.
York Minster announces chorister auditions for 2025
York Minster is offering school pupils currently in Year 3 the chance to audition for its world-famous choir. Children are not expected to have formal singing experience, but a love of singing is a necessity. If their audition is successful, children will receive a subsidised place at St Peter’s School for 2025, with opportunities to apply for up to 100% funding.
Choral music is one of the glories of York Minster. The choir is widely regarded as one of the finest cathedral choirs in the country and can trace its heritage back to AD627. In recent years, choristers have performed for His Majesty King Charles III, as well as featuring on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. Alongside high profile performances, choristers also have the chance to tour internationally, make new friends, and sing alongside renowned musicians in the awe-inspiring setting of York Minster.
York Minster’s choristers receive a world-class musical education under the tutelage of Robert Sharpe, the cathedral’s Director of Music. In their first year, the children are encouraged to find their voice: they attend rehearsals, take musical theory and sight singing lessons, and develop their musicianship through fun games. From their second year, they begin singing at services, concerts and special occasions, supported by an expert team of musicians, chaperones and clergy at York Minster. Choristers also receive an outstanding education at St Peter’s School, one of the oldest schools in the world, winner of the Times Education Supplement’s Independent School of the Year 2021, and the choir school for York Minster since September 2020.
The Chapter of York, York Minster’s governing body, provides a substantial scholarship for each chorister towards school fees, regardless of financial status. Families can also apply for additional means-tested bursaries which can potentially increase the level of funding to 100% through St Peter’s School bursary programme.
Robert Sharpe explains that the recruitment process aims to identify children’s musical potential. He said:
“Becoming a chorister at York Minster is an excellent way to harness a child’s musical talent, as well as helping children to develop lifelong skills of self-discipline, team-work, organisation, concentration, poise, and attention to detail.
“I know that there will be many parents in and around York with a son or daughter who just loves singing and who may be searching for ways to nurture their child’s ability. At the auditions, I will be looking for children who are able to hold a tune, pitch notes, and express an interest in developing their musical talents, but I am not expecting them to arrive as fully-formed musicians!
“This is a unique opportunity for a child to have a superb education and to play a part in the life of one of the most important and beautiful cathedrals in the world.”
Commenting on the auditions, Jeremy Walker, Head Master of St Peter’s School, York, said:
“The wonderful experience of being a chorister at York Minster, combined with an outstanding education at St Peter’s, offers life-changing opportunities for girls and boys with musical talents and interests.
“I am aware of the financial pressures that families are facing in the current climate. For some, this may make a choristership at St Peter’s seem out of reach, but I would encourage you to have a conversation with our team about applying for means-tested bursaries. You may be surprised by how many families qualify for additional fee assistance.
“I have first-hand appreciation of the incredible experience this provides, as a former chorister parent myself and Head Master of two cathedral choir schools, and encourage you and your families to find out more and consider an application.”
About the 2025 Chorister Auditions
York Minster’s Chorister Auditions will be held in January 2025 at St Peter’s School, Clifton, York YO30 6AB. The deadline for applications is 31 December 2024. For more details, please contact admissions@stpetersyork.org.uk.
Back to school with York Minster’s Learning Team
York Minster’s Learning Team are gearing up to welcome young people to the cathedral for the new school year with brand-new, vibrant activities. The programme includes significant financial support for schools, with bursaries towards travel costs, free self-led visits for schools from a YO postcode, and funded places in the National Schools Singing Programme.
Schools can engage in workshops and guided tours, or self-guided visits around the cathedral, created to meet curriculum needs, whilst also being fun and engaging. York Minster’s experienced team of heritage and religious education specialists can take pupils on a medieval pilgrimage, help them become artists and poets, or even put a Victorian arsonist on trial.
Lisa Power, Head of Events and Participation at York Minster, said: “I am very aware that families and schools are currently under financial pressure. York Minster is such a remarkable place where children can create memories that last a lifetime. We have worked hard to create accessible opportunities to enable as many children as possible to experience its wonders.
“A self-guided visit to the cathedral is free for schools from a YO postcode. York residents can visit the Minster for free and there is no charge for children under 17 to visit with an accompanying adult from outside of York. We have an array of trails and activities that help children and young people explore this incredible site throughout the year.
“From speaking with schools, I know that financial challenges can be a barrier when organising trips, especially around transport. That is why we have teamed up with Hyundai’s Great British School Trip. Upon booking, schools are able to apply for a bursary to support travel costs.”
At the beginning of 2024, York Minster piloted a new music outreach programme with three York Primary Schools, in tandem with the National Schools Singing Programme. The syllabus and structure of the programme enables diverse communities to engage with choral and church music of the highest standard. Participating schools have performed inside the cathedral and have enriched their own musical traditions through this scheme.
York Minster can offer a free term to two more York based schools due to generous funding from the York Music Hub; very favourable rates are available for the rest of the school year.
On Saturday 7 September the cathedral will host the first of its ‘Minster Mashups’, a fun, relaxed service for families. The first service will mark the start of the school year and children are encouraged to bring their school bags to be blessed. Other Minster Mashups will be themed around Harvest Festival and the Christmas Tree Festival light switch-on.
Commenting on the broad range of activities at the Minster, Lisa Power said: “Seeing children and young people experience and participate in worship at York Minster is wonderful part of my job. I hope families feel welcome to attend the Minster Mashup this autumn and enjoy an inclusive, ebullient type of worship.
“A personal highlight for me this year has been hearing local primary school children sing at our lunchtime eucharists through the National Schools Singing Programme. The children participating in the scheme have been fantastic and it’s a way for local pupils and their communities to experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the cathedral. We are very grateful to have received funding from the York Music Hub to cover a free term of musical tuition and have space for two more schools from York to join the scheme”.
York Minster also has a range of trails and activities that help children and young people explore this incredible site throughout the year, all included in the cost of a general admission ticket.
Prices for school workshops with a guided tour:
£6 per pupil + £30 facilitation fee. One accompanying adult with up to ten children goes free. £13 for each additional adult (excluding staff required for KS1/SEN). *
*Prices to go up by 50p in January.
Schools can get further information by emailing bookings@yorkminster.org or speak with a member of York Minster’s Bookings Team 01904 557200. Detailed information about our new learning offer is on our website at www.yorkminster.org/visit/schools.
For more information about the National Schools Singing Programme go to www.nssp.org.uk
York Minster Appoints Leeds-based Company for Pioneering Solar Panel Installation
York Minster, one of the most iconic and historically significant cathedrals in the world, is taking a pioneering step towards sustainability with the imminent installation of 184 state-of-the-art solar panels. This innovative project not only aims to reduce the carbon footprint of this historic landmark, but also features enhanced fire safety measures, ensuring the preservation of its architectural heritage for future generations.
The installation contract has been awarded to Associated Clean Technologies Ltd, an award-winning solar panel installation team based in Leeds, ensuring that the project will meet the highest standards of quality and safety. The installation of the solar panels on the South Quire roof area marks a significant milestone in York Minster’s ongoing efforts to integrate modern technology within its centuries-old structure.
York Minster’s new solar installation is designed with the latest SolarEdge inverter technology, which is renowned for its advanced safety features. The decision to incorporate SolarEdge was driven by the dual objectives of maximising energy generation yield and prioritising the safety of the cathedral’s structure and its visitors.
The Very Revd. Dominic Barrington, Dean of York: “We are thrilled to integrate solar into our strategy to decarbonise our operation. This installation is not just about harnessing renewable energy; it is about ensuring the preservation of York Minster for generations to come as we collectively seek to reduce our impact on the planet in an increasingly worrying climate emergency.”
Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct: “The safety features provided by SolarEdge technology were a decisive factor in our choice of design. The greatest threat to the fabric of York Minster is now extreme weather events. With this system, we can safeguard our heritage while leading by example as we move towards a more sustainable future.”
Nicola Newby, Operations Director of Associated Clean Technologies Ltd: “We are honoured to have been selected to carry out this significant installation at York Minster. Our team has worked diligently to ensure that the project not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”
York Minster’s adoption of solar panels is a testament to its dedication to innovation and sustainability, setting a benchmark for other historical sites worldwide. The project underscores the potential for modern technology to complement and protect our shared cultural heritage.
Yorkshire Day to be celebrated in the Heart of Yorkshire
Faith leaders, civic representatives, and people who proudly call Yorkshire home will gather in York Minster on Thursday 1 August for a special service to mark Yorkshire Day.
The Service of Prayer and Thanksgiving will begin as people gather with music sung by the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, before a procession of civic leaders arrives from York Mansion House to the cathedral, a place of prayer and pilgrimage in whose west window is traced ‘The Heart of Yorkshire’.
The Yorkshire Society, who are hosting a whole day of celebrations alongside the service, will process and a flag will be presented at the Altar by Cadets.
Reflections will be shared by Professor Avtar Matharu, Chair of York Interfaith Group; Shamim Eimaan, a Ugandan refugee who has lived in York for almost four decades; and Bianca Vartic, a new resident of York.
Commenting on the service, The Reverend Tim Goode, York Minster’s Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture, said: “We are thrilled to be hosting this special Yorkshire Day service at the cathedral for the first time since 2000. As a fairly new resident of York myself, I’ve been privileged to experience warmth and welcome from the Yorkshire people and have enjoyed exploring the rich and varied history and culture that the region offers.
“The service will give us all a chance to give thanks for these great counties, but also to reflect on how we wish to see the region develop into the future. I hope many people will be able to join us in our worship.”
The Service of Prayer and Thanksgiving will take place in the cathedral’s nave on Thursday 1 August starting at 11am and will last around an hour.
New light and sound installation commemorating 40th anniversary of fire illuminates York Minster
A new light and sound installation will illuminate York Minster this October half-term to commemorate the 1984 fire and to raise funds for continuing restoration of the cathedral.
PHOENIX is a major new projection mapping and sound installation by award-winning artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid. The installation is bespoke, having been specially created to bring the cathedral’s unique architecture and history to life. Ashton and Monid also created Northern Lights in 2019 and Platinum and Light in 2022, two spectacular installations which attracted tens of thousands of people to the cathedral.
The brand-new show, which will run for 15 nights from Saturday 19 October to Saturday 2 November, is inspired by the devastating fire that destroyed the roof of York Minster’s South Transept forty years ago.
Telling the story of that night and its aftermath, PHOENIX will commemorate the bravery of those that responded to the fire, celebrating the resilience of York Minster and the people of York through their own words, in the very place where it happened.
Visitors will see lightning strike the cathedral, lead pour down from the roof and the iconic Rose Window crack, before the clean-up operation begins and expert restoration work leaves York Minster standing as a symbol of hope in the city once more.
Neil Sanderson, Director of the York Minster Fund, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ross and Karen back to create another spectacular show for the Minster and, with such an inspiring story of both disaster and rebuilding, I know this will be something no-one will want to miss!
“I remember seeing the fire on the news forty years ago and being shocked by those images of the flames in the darkness.
“The money raised is absolutely vital to ensure we can continue the work of restoring and protecting this magnificent building. Everyone who buys a ticket becomes part of the long history of this place, helping us to preserve it for future generations to enjoy.”
After each performance, visitors will have the chance to buy a special Restoration Rose pin badge based on a design created by Laura Edwards (née Smith) for a Blue Peter competition when she was 10 years old.
Of the 68 bosses on the South Transept ceiling at the time of the 1984 fire, all but six were damaged or destroyed. In 1986, York Minster launched a competition with the BBC’s Blue Peter to find new designs based on significant events from the 20th century. There were over 32,000 entries which were whittled down to the six winning designs that can be seen on the new ceiling of the South Transept today.
Laura’s winning design depicted the red and white roses of Lancashire and Yorkshire surrounded by flames, inspired by York Minster’s iconic Rose Window, which narrowly survived the fire.
All proceeds from the sale of PHOENIX tickets and Restoration Rose pin badges will help to raise funds for the ongoing cycle of restoration and conservation to the cathedral’s fabric. York Minster is one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, but with the current building dating from the 13th century, it is a fragile masterpiece which needs constant care.
The light and sound projection will open on Saturday 19 October and run each evening until Saturday 2 November. Monday to Saturday, the projection will start at 7pm, with booking slots available every 20 minutes until 9pm. Doors will close at 9.30pm. On Sundays, the projection will start at 6pm, with booking slots available every 20 minutes until 8pm. Doors will close at 8.30pm.
Tickets are available now via the cathedral’s website HERE and cost £7.50 each, or £25 for a family ticket for up to two adults and two children.
The Restoration Rose pin badges are on sale now in the York Minster Shops, priced at £5. Visitors can also pre-order a pin badge when they book a PHOENIX ticket, and collect their order on the night. They can also buy a badge in-person after each performance.
York Minster seeks its next apprentice
The search for York Minster’s next apprentice stonemason is now underway thanks to funding from the Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust. The Trust, which exists to advance education and research in construction, is giving their largest donation to date to support the role.
The apprentice will join the Minster at an exciting time as the new Centre of Excellence for Heritage Skills and Estate Management opens this autumn. The Centre will combine traditional craft skills with cutting-edge technology, as well as reviving a medieval tradition of providing accommodation for apprentices to live and work on site, helping to combat a very modern cost of living crisis.
Alongside learning the ancient craft of stonemasonry, the apprentice will gain hands-on experience with the latest digital technologies, providing them with a wide range of tools to help combat some of the emerging challenges facing historic buildings such as York Minster. Climate change, which is causing increased and far heavier rainfall, is impacting these surprisingly fragile buildings, requiring stonemasons to replace stones more frequently.
Fortunately, York Minster has one of the largest, most skilled stoneyards in the country; the funding from the Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust will ensure that a long tradition of passing on skills, knowledge and tricks of the trade will continue for future generations.
Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the support of the Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust at such a significant level towards a new apprentice stonemason at York Minster. This generous grant very much represents our strong shared aims in engaging the next generation of heritage construction professionals, through this exciting opportunity to join the workforce at one of the most iconic buildings in the country.
“The new stonemason will join us at a unique moment in York Minster’s history, as we open the doors of our new Centre for Excellence to the world and develop our growing international network of cathedrals and heritage institutions. We are deeply grateful to the Trust for such generous investment in our work and very much look forward to welcoming the new apprentice into our workforce this autumn.”
Paul Shepherd, Company member and Chairman of The Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust, said: “The Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust is delighted to be supporting a new stonemasonry apprenticeship at York Minster. This is the largest grant that the Constructors Charitable Trust has ever made and perfectly follows our prime remit to support Education and Research in the Construction Industry. We are particularly pleased to support an Apprentice throughout their training and to partner with York Minster by contributing to the conservation and preservation of one of the most respected cathedrals in the world.
“The Constructors Company will follow the development of the Apprentice throughout their training and will receive regular updates on their progress. As the Centre of Excellence for Heritage Skills and Estate Management opens on site at York Minster later this year, we look forward to our funded apprentice gaining invaluable skills and experience as part of this exciting new global network of heritage professionals and training.”
For more details about the role, please visit: https://yorkminster.org/vacancies/
New exhibition reveals the fire that threatened to destroy York Minster
Visitors to York Minster can rediscover the 1984 fire that threatened to destroy the cathedral in a new exhibition opening Saturday 29 June.
The exhibition journeys through the dramatic events of 9 July 1984, when the roof of the South Transept was struck by lightning.
Through powerful eyewitness accounts and dramatic archive photographs captured by horrified onlookers, visitors can rediscover the heroic rescue efforts, go behind the scenes of the clean-up operation, and delve into four years of restoration works that returned the cathedral to its former glory.
Running until June 2025, the exhibition – Out of the Ashes – is in the cathedral’s North Transept, opposite where the fire took hold. Entry to the exhibition is included with a standard admission ticket at no extra cost and is part of a series of activities and events commemorating the 40th anniversary of the blaze.
Fire damaged furniture that survived the blaze and the original drawings for six roof bosses designed by Blue Peter competition winners will also be on display.
Kirsty Mitchell, Curator at York Minster, explains: “The 1984 fire is a pivotal moment in York Minster’s history. The archive accounts reveal tragedy and the sense of horror, but also the resilience and huge community strength as people came together to do what had to be done.
“We hope this exhibition does justice to the incredible efforts of those who fought the fire and all those who supported and carried out the beautiful restoration works.”
York Minster is renowned for its commitment to heritage craft skills. The exhibition features information about the restoration of the roof, vault, and Rose Window, as well as the ongoing cycle of restoration and conservation that continues today, led by a multidisciplinary team of skilled heritage craftspeople.
Master Mason Emeritus John David, who has worked at the cathedral for over forty years, remembers the night of the fire: “To be part of the team inside the Minster on the night was both a shocking and memorable experience. But by the next morning, when we could see that the rest of the Minster had been saved, despair turned into an eagerness to get on with the restoration. We had the skills here and it was our job.”
Visitors can also stand in the footsteps of those who saw the 1984 fire and its aftermath in a brand-new digital-visual trail – On This Spot. The shocking events of 9 July 1984 will be revealed through vivid photographs allowing visitors to imagine seeing the blaze for themselves. Each stop on the trail can be unlocked by scanning QR codes placed in and around the cathedral and will include chance for reflection and prayer.
The exhibition and trail are part of a series of activities at York Minster to commemorate the anniversary of the fire. For further details go to yorkminster.org/fire.
The exhibition and trail will be open from Saturday 29 June during normal visiting times. Entry is included with a standard admission ticket and entry to the Minster is free for York residents with valid proof of address.
The cities of York and New York Celebrate a Century of Transatlantic Friendship: 100 Years of Twinning
“City speaks to City and State to State. The name honorably borne by York for centuries our State bears with equal pride in the New World. A sister State stretches friendly hands across the sea to greet you with affection and prayers that this memorial may symbolize our sterling friendship through years to come.’’
– Governor Smith of New York State, July 1924, The New York Times
The historic cities of York, England, and New York City, USA, will celebrate a century as twin cities next week (May 5, 2024), with a message from His Majesty King Charles III marking the occasion, and dignitaries from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean coming together for an historic ceremony.
Four days of activity in New York City, celebrating the two cities’ shared values, will culminate in a special service at Saint Thomas Church, New York, on Sunday May 5 at 4pm, when a ledger stone designed and carved at York Minster in England will be unveiled. The ledger stone has been placed in Saint Thomas Church as it shares a close relationship with York Minster through its liturgy and music.
Marking the special occasion on Fifth Avenue will be The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, The Revd Canon Carl Turner, and British Consul General to New York, Hannah Young, who will read a message from His Majesty King Charles III.
The long-standing relationship between New York City and York stretches back to 1924, when citizens of New York presented York with a memorial tablet during a service in England, alongside a message from the then President of the United States.
Over the last century, the two cities have gone from strength to strength, forging partnerships across education, the arts, business, and tourism. The Revd Canon Carl Turner, Rector of Saint Thomas will be joined by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell for the service and unveiling.
The Revd Canon Carl Turner, Rector of Saint Thomas, said: “In its bicentennial year, Saint Thomas Church is delighted to celebrate the historic relationship between old York and New York, as it were, and to uplift our Anglican heritage from which we draw so much tradition and strength. We feel privileged to house this historic ledger stone in our nave and look forward to welcoming delegations from York and the British Embassy.”
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell said: “I’m delighted to be part of this moment when York and New York renew their connection. In a world where there is much division, reaching out across different cultures fosters goodwill and understanding, breaks down barriers and recognizes we are all part of one humanity.”
Hannah Young, British Consul General to New York, said: “For 100 years, York and New York have shared a special bond, and as Consul General to New York, I have seen first-hand at how our countries have learnt from one another’s rich histories, our shared values to promote tourism, and foster business connections that benefit both cities.”
The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “We’re extremely excited that we’ve reached the next step in the program of celebration marking the centenary of this historic moment as we look to further develop connections between the two cities. It comes at a time where work on our Centre of Excellence is well underway, a project that will establish the York Minster Precinct as a world class campus facility for heritage craft skills, so we’re delighted to be able to showcase the talent of our stonemasons and the scheme on an international scale through this gift.”
York Minster seeking three new girl choristers
York Minster is searching for three school girls, currently in Year 3, to audition for their world-famous choir. Children are not expected to have formal singing experience, but a love of singing is very much essential to the role. If their audition is successful, children will receive a subsidised place at St Peter’s School, the choir school for York Minster since September 2020.
Choral music is one of the glories of York Minster: the choir, widely regarded as one of the finest cathedral choirs in the country, can trace its heritage back to 627AD and, more recently, has performed for King Charles III as well as featuring on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. Alongside high profile performances, choristers also have the chance to tour internationally, make new friends and sing alongside renowned musicians in the stunning setting of York Minster.
As well as a world-class musical education under the tutelage of York Minster’s Director of Music, Robert Sharpe, choristers receive an outstanding education at St Peter’s School, one of the oldest schools in the world and winner of the Times Education Supplement’s Independent School of the Year 2021. The Chapter of York, York Minster’s governing body, provides a substantial scholarship for each chorister towards school fees, with additional means-tested bursaries potentially increasing the level of funding to 100%.
The auditions held earlier this year resulted in a full complement of boy choristers, but three roles remain unfilled for the girls. Robert Sharpe, who is keen to make sure that the girls remain at full strength, said:
“We have three spaces still available for new girl choristers and I would urge parents with a musical daughter to get in touch. Being a chorister is a life-changing experience with focus on team skills, concentration, well-being and fun.”
Commenting on the opportunity, Jeremy Walker, Head Master of St Peter’s School, York said:
“I encourage any families of a Year 3 girl interested in this wonderful opportunity to apply to become a chorister. They would be joining an exceptional cohort of children, experiencing a lot of fun and friendship within the choir combined with an outstanding education at St Peter’s. I have first-hand appreciation of the incredible experiences this provides, as a former chorister parent myself, so would urge families with a child who loves to sing to consider getting in touch.”
About the 2024 Chorister Auditions
Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Auditions for prospective choristers will be organised when applications are received and will be held at St Peter’s School, Clifton, York YO30 6AB.
For more details, contact Sara Bath, Admissions Officer, on 01904 527391 or email s.bath@stpetersyork.org.uk, or visit York Minster Choristers | St Peter’s School
York Minster receives generous donation from Garfield Weston Foundation
York Minster is delighted to announce the exceptionally generous support of the Garfield Weston Foundation towards its new Centre of Excellence for Heritage Skills and Estate Management.
The Foundation’s grant of £500,000 is the largest philanthropic gift granted by a charitable foundation towards the Minster’s work to date and is a much-valued contribution towards the ongoing fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence.
The Garfield Weston Foundation is a family founded grant maker that gives money to support a wide range of charities across the UK, in total donating around £90m each year.
York Minster’s new Centre for Excellence will open later this year and will bring multiple benefits, including improving the productivity of restoration work; helping to retain traditional craft skills and practitioners; supporting young people in the early stages of their careers; and providing dedicated residential facilities for apprentices and trainees.
Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, said: “This incredibly generous donation by the Foundation will help hugely towards realising our vision for the Centre of Excellence, in turn encouraging national and global learning and knowledge sharing of traditional heritage crafts and cutting-edge technologies.
“The Centre is crucial for helping us to secure the environmental, financial and heritage sustainability of York Minster for many years to come and the Trustees’ support has played a key part in enabling this to happen.”
Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation said “We are delighted to support the state of the art training facilities and affordable trainee accommodation provided at the York Minster Centre for Excellence. In a time of dwindling numbers of heritage craft practitioners learning the skills required to preserve and maintain beautiful historic buildings such as York Minster, we are delighted to help support this important project. We look forward to seeing the Centre develop”
The Garfield Weston Foundation’s donation has significantly helped towards the £2m fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence. All contributions towards this exciting project or the Minster’s ongoing conservation and restoration work are gratefully received as we near our final target.
If you would like to make a donation, please visit our dedicated website section at Centre for Excellence or contact Cate Birch, Head of Fundraising at cateb@yorkminster.org.