For over 900 years Southwell Minster has opened its doors every day to welcome visitors, pilgrims and worshippers. Some are local, many from further afield and across the world. We have placed hospitality in the name of Jesus Christ as being at the heart of what we want to offer the 100,000, or so, people, who come each year.
We’re known as the ‘hidden gem’ of English cathedrals, tucked away in a delightful Nottinghamshire market town and yet glistening with beauty and charm. The Minster’s ancient stones are soaked with centuries of daily prayer and praise to God; yet, it is not a foreboding, impersonal place. First-time visitors, especially children, walk into the nave, the main body of the church, and find that their eyes are drawn upwards, towards the figure of ‘Christus Rex’, ‘Christ the King’ prominent over the nave arch and leaning forward with arms outstretched. It’s as if Christ himself is running to embrace and welcome all who come. It’s a wonderful image of warmth and homecoming, which even total strangers feel.
Recently, a visitor to the Minster wrote that, following her visit, she was full of hope again. As the Dean here I cannot think of a more encouraging remark. The Christian faith is realistic about the pain and struggle and uncertainty of our world and yet we hope in a God of goodness and faithfulness and love. I think that’s something of what that particular visitor felt that day. The story of Christmas is one of God coming to us, humbling himself in the vulnerable child of Jesus, offering us true hope for our lives and for the world, a light for our path and peace in our lives.
As Dean, on behalf of all of us at the Minster, we look forward to welcoming you.
The Very Reverend Nicola Sullivan
Dean of Southwell
