Blackburn Cathedral is Lancashire’s Cathedral. It is the seat of our Bishop and exists to celebrate the Christian story through worship, prayer and praise. The building has existed in its current basic form since 1831 and its ministry as a Cathedral started in 1931 following the formation of a new Diocese by Bishop William Temple. It is this legacy that the 2010 Appeal is designed to build on.

 

 

A message from the Dean
Our Cathedral’s strap-line – “Good News for Lancashire” – sums up our 3-strand appeal for:

 

Lancashire’s Anglican Cathedral has been cherished over the years for all sorts of reasons: a sign of hope; a place of sanctuary; a symbol of lasting values. These values still endure – they are important to us as we go about our core task of worshipping God and serving our neighbour – but we have to adapt our present life to the needs and influences of the area.
 

Please join us in this challenge which will be good news for Lancashire and beyond. If you wish to come and talk to me about any of these proposals, please phone me on 01254 503090. Christopher Armstrong, Dean of Blackburn.

 

Blackburn Cathedral Trust was set up to help face a number of challenges to ensure that the life of the Cathedral does not stand still but continues to serve the needs of the people of Lancashire; not only those living in Blackburn but all who live within the Diocese either of a Christian faith, another faith or of no faith. 

 

Contrary to popular belief, the Cathedral is not funded by the Diocese or the government, but relies mainly on the church commissioners and the generosity of the congregation through the stewardship scheme. To continue to provide an outstanding environment, not only for Christian worship, but also for the many diverse cultural and inspirational activities which depend on the cathedral facilities being at the highest possible standard, we need once again to turn to the communities within Lancashire and beyond for their support.

 

The Trust aims to help the Cathedral build upon the successes of the recent past, which include the Lantern Tower and the rebuilding of the organ. Our work must continue, with your support, if we are to leave future generations with a cathedral that will enrich their lives. 

The fundraising will be in three separate strands

 

FABRIC (£1.5m):  The building is in good condition but the wiring is becoming dangerous, there is water damage in isolated areas and the Crypt and Jesus Chapel need refurbishing.

 

MUSIC (£1.0m): Again, the music is excellent thanks to the huge amount of voluntary work which is poured into the praise of Almighty God but we know that it cannot be sustained much longer without financial support for some of our singers and some dedicated help to maintain the security of our youngest members by the provision of a choir matron. The Song School needs to be redesigned and we need to tell the nation that we are here and singing God’s praises every day of the week!

COMMUNITY (£1.0m): Set in a cultural mix which seems to fascinate the whole world, we have begun some serious explorations of the challenges which face white and Asian communities as they strive to live together. It is vital that this work continues as it is greatly in demand both nationally and internationally. To do this we need to appoint a Community Canon to work with our current Dialogue Development Officer, a Muslim herself. Add to this mix, the need of an Education Officer to boldly tell the Christian story, and we have a very exciting future ahead.