Wednesday, May 23, 2007
17th May Chichester. Part 1. Cathedral
For nearly 1,000 years the cathedral at Chichester has dominated the landscape and drawn worshippers and visitors to its door.
A cathedral is not a museum; it is a living and ever changing centre of Christian spirituality. Even for those who profess no faith, a cathedral or church creates a time of still and calm. There is beauty all around and an atmosphere full of the history of all who have walked and worshipped there.
Things within a cathedral reflect the changing tastes and times of the people. The altar is now simple, with an amazing modern tapestry by John Piper behind.
This is the view you get by craning your neck to look up into the bell tower.
One of the many stained glass windows.
On display is this impressive old psalter or book of psalms.
Statues on a grave within the cathedral.
Candles can have a spiritual and soothing effect on the soul. I like to light a candle in a church and think of those in need.
Outside the cathedral are many interesting things to see. On either side of the main door are life size heads of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. I like this image of the Queen - it has humour and joy and gentleness.
St Richard of Chichester was born in 1197. He was great teacher and theologian and Archbishop of the cathedral.
His simple prayer is well known.
Thanks be to thee, our Lord Jesus Christ,for all the benefits which you have given us, for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. Most merciful Redeemer, Friend and Brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day. Amen.
The cathedral buildings were badly damaged during the reformation. Fortunately a small part of the cloisters remain.
Now we will take one last look inside the cathedral, which on the day we were there was about to celebrate a service of Holy Communion for Ascension Day.
The first and last pictures about the cathedral are post cards.
