Advent
The Cathedral prepares worshippers for Christmas during Advent with a full programme of services and music. A candlelit procession is one of the highlights of our Advent observance as music and words, together, prepare us for the coming of Christ.
Christmastide
Christmastide begins with a celebration of Holy Communion by the bishop at midnight on Christmas Eve and extends until January 6th. It is a time of joy when we celebrate the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Our services often include familiar carols and music marking the birth of our Saviour.
Epiphanytide
From January 6th until February 2nd is the season of Epiphany. The Church reflects on the revelation of God in Jesus and amongst the events of Jesus life that we celebrate at this time are the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus, his baptism by John the Baptist and the Marriage at Cana.
Lent & Holy Week
Beginning on Ash Wednesday, Lent is a time of preparation, fasting and repentance. Christians recall Jesus time of trial in the desert. Our worship is often solemn and restrained with a quiet, intense beauty. At the end of Lent, Holy Week, beginning with Palm Sunday follows the events of Jesus as he enters Jerusalem to be tried and crucified.
Eastertide
The Church celebrates the resurrection of Christ throughout the Easter season until Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter Sunday. Our worship is joyful and celebrates the gift of new life in Christ. Our hymns and music are exuberant to reflect that new life and hope.
Pentecost
God’s gift to the Church of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (sometimes called Whitsunday) is the focus of our worship in this season. In the Acts of the Apostles, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples in Jerusalem. It marks the beginning of the Church’s mission to share the love of Christ throughout the world.
St Canice’s Day
We keep October 11th as St Canice’s Day remembering the saint of the ancient Irish church to whom the Cathedral is dedicated. There is a service of Holy Communion and Choral Evensong attended by all the clergy of the Cathedral Chapter.
All Saints’ Tide
All Saints’s Day (November 1st) ushers in a time of reflection and remembrance. We celebrate the calling of the Church to a life of holiness and give thanks for the Saints who have lived a life of faith.