Salisbury Cathedral Spire illuminated as 'beacon of hope'

Salisbury's iconic Spire will be illuminated from All Saints Eve (31st October) until All Souls' Day ( Monday 2nd November) with intersecting light beams rising from the Cathedral roof to form a pyramid around the landmark.

The Light of Hope project was devised by light artist Peter Walker and is supported by Arts Council England.

It's hoped the Cathedral will 'stand as a beacon of hope in difficult times.'

Peter Walker first produced the digital art installation in 2018 at Lichfield Cathedral where three beams of lights were projected into the night sky.

Seven other cathedrals across the country including Carlisle, Exeter and Liverpool will be taking part this weekend.

REMEMBERING LOVED ONES

Salisbury Cathedral is also marking All Soul's Day (Monday 2 November) with an afternoon devoted to prayer. Between 2pm and 4pm, anyone who would like the opportunity to pause, reflect and light a candle for a loved one, is welcome to visit.

All Souls' Day is traditionally a day when Christians come together to remember and give thanks for those whose love and friendship they have treasured, but also to remind themselves that they are not alone in their grief.

Throughout the afternoon there will be chaplains and clergy on hand to offer pastoral care, prayers will be said on the half-hour and organ music will be played at regular intervals.

There will also be a chance to dedicate a flower in memory of those who have died, which will be become part of an arrangement that will remain in place during the special All Souls' Eucharist that follows at 5.30pm.

During the service the Cathedral Choir will sing the Faure Requiem and the names of loved ones will be read out as part of the prayers.

The Revd Anna Macham, Salisbury Cathedral's Canon Precentor said:

"This year we remember all who have died, whether as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, or of another cause. All Souls' Day is a day to help us remember: not just to recall our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives and all that they have given to others, and to commit them to God's care and safe keeping."

The Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury said:

"The music and liturgy of All Souls are solemn, reflective, and full of hope, because they offer an assurance of the love and grace of God. I am thankful that despite the pandemic we are still open and, whilst numbers for worship are limited, we are now able to live stream our services for all to share. We hope that as many people as possible are able to join us safely on Monday afternoon to give thanks for the lives of those we love, past and present."

Anyone wishing to pray or reflect during the afternoon should enter the Cathedral via the main visitor entrance on the West Front.

You'll be required to supply details for Test and Trace at the Welcome Desk, and Cathedral staff will be on hand to manage numbers.

Masks must be worn when inside the Cathedral and people should remain in their household or support groups, socially distancing from others in line with the government Rule of Six regulations. Hand sanitiser will be provided on entry.

All are welcome to join the service too, but capacity is very limited and advanced booking is essential. This can be done via the Cathedral website or by ringing the bookings team on 01722 512156.