News: Journeying Through Lent, Holy Week, and Easter at Guildford Cathedral

Journeying Through Lent, Holy Week, and Easter at Guildford Cathedral

Journeying Through Lent, Holy Week, and Easter at Guildford Cathedral

Experience the Power of Music and Reflection at Guildford Cathedral through Lent, Holy Week.

Guildford Cathedral invites you to immerse yourself in an extraordinary evening of music at our Holy Week concert on 12 April. This spectacular performance will feature composer Christopher Wood’s inspiring Easter Oratorio, Holy Week, performed by The Cathedral Choir and 30 musicians. The concert will also include stirring choral masterpieces which include the ethereal Miserere mei – Allegri and an emotive setting of the words ‘Crucifixus etiam pro nobis’ - ‘He was crucified for us’ by Lotti

This is a rare opportunity to experience music that captures the drama, emotion, and beauty of the season within the stunning surroundings of Guildford Cathedral. Whether you are drawn by the power of live performance, the grandeur of choral music, or the unique atmosphere of this historic venue, this concert promises to be an unforgettable experience.

The readings during the Holy Week Oratorio will be read by The Rt Revd Paul Davies

Bishop of Dorking. All proceeds will go towards supporting the music of the Cathedral, ensuring that this vital part of our cultural and community life continues to thrive.

Alongside this exceptional musical event, Guildford Cathedral is hosting a variety of exhibitions and services throughout Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. From thought-provoking exhibitions to moments of quiet contemplation, there is something for everyone looking to step away from the everyday and engage with something truly special.

On 2 April, join us for a Taizé Service – a peaceful and meditative gathering of simple sung prayers, silence, and reflection. This is the perfect way to pause and find stillness before the intensity of Holy Week.

From 5 March to 21 April, don’t miss Icons on Ammunition Boxes, a striking exhibition of religious icons painted on reclaimed ammunition boxes from Ukraine’s war zones. These remarkable artworks offer a compelling message of resilience and hope, bridging art, history, and contemporary global events.

For those looking for a deeply immersive experience, our Stations of the Cross-take place on Sundays from 16 March at 7pm after Choral Evensong, offering a thought-provoking journey through powerful imagery and reflection.

Holy Week itself is filled with opportunities to witness moving choral performances and special services. Our all-age Good Friday service, The Way of the Cross, provides an engaging way to reflect on the story of Easter, welcoming families, and individuals alike.

Whether you are a music lover, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of peace and inspiration, Guildford Cathedral is open to all. Explore, listen, reflect – and be part of something truly memorable this season. Visit our website for full details and to book your tickets for the Holy Week concert on 12 April.

Further Details

Stations of the Cross

On Sundays 16 March, 23 March, 30 March and 6 April at 7pm

Lent has always been a time for deepening discipleship and walking with Jesus on the path to Calvary and through the Cross to the glories of Easter Day.  As part of our journey through Lent, we will be sharing the opportunity to walk with Jesus on the Via Dolorosa by praying the Stations of The Cross. The readings and reflections will differ slightly each week.

This simple service which has been a part of the Church’s liturgy for over 900 years, is loaded with meaning and is a beautiful way to focus our devotions during Lent. We encourage people to come to our beautiful service of Choral Evensong before the Stations of the Cross, however, all are welcome to come to just to the Stations then please feel free to do that; we will begin at 7.00pm. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

Icons on Ammunition Boxes

Wednesday 5 March – Monday 21 April

A deeply moving exhibition, Icons on Ammunition Boxes highlights religious icons painted on reclaimed ammunition boxes from Ukraine’s war zones. These poignant works bear silent witness to the violence and suffering of conflict while offering hope and reflection during the Christian season of Lent.

Where Art Meets Faith and Inspiration This Lent, Holy Week, and Easter

For more information contact Nicola Pratt, Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral on 01483 547884 Headofdevelopment@guildford-cathedral.org

For more information about our exhibitions, tours, and events, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

Guildford Cathedral is the newest Church of England Cathedral consecrated on a new site and the only Cathedral dedicated to the Holy Spirit. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community, it serves as a spiritual home and cultural landmark in Surrey.

When WWII halted the building process, leaving the Cathedral partially completed, fears arose that it might never be finished, and there were even talks of demolishing what had been built. In an incredible display of support, thousands of individual bricks were purchased by members of the public and community groups. Even Queen Elizabeth II participated, buying and signing a brick. These contributions marked the beginning of the journey of the “People’s Cathedral.

Today, Guildford Cathedral stands strong on Stag Hill, an instantly recognisable symbol of Guildford visible for miles around—a beacon of hope and a sign of homecoming. Inside, the Cathedral’s natural light highlights its open space, creating an atmosphere of stillness and peace. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a vibrant venue for community events.

This remarkable building is a testament to what can be achieved when people pull together. From the passion and dedication that made its construction possible in the 20th century to the present day, Guildford Cathedral remains “Open to God, Open to All.”

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Added Friday 28th March 2025