Derby Cathedral

Like all other Cathedrals, Derby is much more than a beautiful building. It is, as its constitution states, ‘the seat of the Bishop and a centre of worship and mission’. The Bishop gathers the clergy and people of the Diocese of Derby here for the ordinations of new priests and deacons, for the baptism of new Christians and for confirmation, for the blessing of the holy oils on Maundy Thursday and for other great diocesan occasions. Additionally he presides at the liturgy in the Cathedral at Christmas, Easter and other principal festivals.

Its mission involves schools work and adult education, welcome and hospitality to visitors, pilgrims and to people in distress of one mind or another, sharing the Christian faith and engaging in dialogue with enquirers and with those of other faiths, and working in close co-operation with the City, the University and other institutions.

Although a Church of England Cathedral, it tries to be a holy place and a sign of unity for Christians of many traditions and a meeting place of faiths. Amidst the daily activity in what is very much a ‘working Cathedral’, there are nevertheless long periods of calm and quiet and visitors are always welcome to walk round, to sit and enjoy its peace, to join in worship, to light a candle or pray.