The season of Advent began with a beautiful Candlelit Advent Procession through the Cathedral on Advent Sunday followed by an Advent Open Evening last Friday (2 December) featuring the blessing of the Cathedral’s outdoor crib and Norwich Cathedral Choir leading the carols.
As the countdown to Christmas continues, there are many more services and events to enjoy – from Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight this Saturday (10 December) and the Christmas with Norwich Cathedral Choir concert next week (Friday 16 December) to the Christmas Processions and the Christmas Eve Crib Service.
The Acting Dean of Norwich, the Revd Dr Peter Doll, said: “The Advent Procession and the Blessing of the Outdoor Crib are among the most moving services of the year, and many of those present expressed their gratitude that after the restrictions of Covid we were able to celebrate the services in the traditional way. Everyone is always welcome to attend our Advent and Christmas services and events, and we look forward to welcoming you.”
Below are some of Norwich Cathedral’s Advent and Christmas highlights:
Tree of Remembrance
Friday 2 December until Thursday 5 January
Remember a loved one by placing a star on the Tree of Remembrance beside the Cathedral’s outdoor crib. Donations will go to Norwich-based homelessness charity St Martins.
Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight
Saturday 10 December, 7.30pm
Join Norwich Cathedral Choir, Norwich Baroque and a cast of internationally acclaimed soloists for our annual performance of Handel’s much-loved oratorio in the beautiful candlelit surroundings of the Cathedral’s nave.
Tickets £15-£30. To book, visit cathedral.org.uk or call 0333 666 4466
Christmas with Norwich Cathedral Choir
Friday 16 December, 7.30pm
Norwich Cathedral Choir presents a feast of festive music, both sacred and secular, with carols for choir and audience, not forgetting the great 12 Days of Christmas sing-along!
Tickets £14-£28. To book, visit cathedral.org.uk or call 0333 666 4466
Carols in the Cloister
Saturday 17 December, 4pm
Enjoy a carol singalong full of festive favourites with the girl choristers and members of the Cathedral’s Chamber Choir in the stunning surrounds of the Cloister. Warm, colourful and festive attire is encouraged!
Free admission, with a retiring collection.
Christmas Procession with Carols
Thursday 22 December, 7pm
Friday 23 December, 7pm
Saturday 24 December, 3.30pm
Hear the story of Christmas told with carols and readings as the Cathedral Choir moves in procession through the whole Cathedral.
Crib Service
Saturday 24 December, 12 noon
Fun for all the family as the Christmas Story is brought to life in this informal service where children are invited to dress as characters from the Nativity and the Cathedral Children’s Choir will sing.
Midnight Mass
Saturday 24 December, 11.15pm
The traditional service sung by the Cathedral Choir to welcome in Christmas Day and celebrate the birth of Jesus. The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, will be the preacher at this service.
Family Eucharist of Christmas Day
Sunday 25 December, 10.30am
Celebrate Christmas Day at this special service sung by Norwich Cathedral Choir. The Acting Dean, the Revd Dr Peter Doll, will be the preacher at this service.
Festal Evensong on Christmas Day
Sunday 25 December, 3.30pm
A special Evensong for Christmas Day with carols sung by Norwich Cathedral Choir.
Christmas shopping in the Cathedral Gift Shop
The Cathedral’s Gift Shop is open daily, offering lots of inspiration for the perfect presents, as well as Christmas cards and festive decorations. The shop is also running a festive offer of four selected packs of Cathedral Christmas Cards for £18.
For all the latest information about services and events at Norwich Cathedral, visit cathedral.org.uk
