Doves and Flames: The Cathedral Church of the Holy Spirit, Guildford

Guildford is the only English Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Emblems of doves and flames are visible throughout the building, including in the beautiful round window, the etched glass, on pillars and indeed on the handmade kneelers.

As depicted in the Holy Spirit window and the north side statues, the Cathedral building embodies the seven gifts of the spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, fear of the Lord. (Isaiah 11:2-3)

As a Cathedral Church of the Holy Spirit, the Cathedral seeks to reflect and hold to the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

These gifts, guide our actions, focus and partnerships. For example, our school visits programme enables school children to explore these values in drama and craft workshops; and the gift of faithfulness (to the world as well as to God) guides our partnerships on social justice.