A reflection from Dean Anthony

This coming weekend will see the installation of three new Deans – in Chichester, Lincoln and Worcester. I will be glad to be present in Chichester Cathedral on Saturday as Dr Edward Dowler begins this new phase in his ministry and offer him greetings and prayers from his sister Cathedral here in Portsmouth.  As it happens, on the morning of the same day I will be giving the address at a memorial service for Marilyn Billingham, who worshipped for a period in both Chichester and Portsmouth.   Many of you will remember her, although her quiet and unassuming presence meant she was not as well-known as she might have been.
 
Not many weeks before she died, Marilyn gave an excellent seminar in the Bishop Kenneth Room for the Cathedral Institute, drawing on her PhD research on Gustav Holst. She carried on with this research even though she knew she would never complete it, with hardly anyone there that evening knowing how ill she was.  
 
Marilyn’s favourite scriptural passage, from Philippians 4, will be read at her memorial.   It contains the verse, ‘Keep on doing the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me’ and names these ‘things’ as ‘whatever is true, honourable and just.’   Marilyn was herself an outstanding exemplar of what it means to ‘keep on doing’.   Beginning and continuing postgraduate research late in life was just one of a multitude of examples.   She was committed to ‘whatever is just ‘throughout her life, as she demonstrated in her determined campaigning to uphold the memory and reputation of Bishop George Bell, whose name had been removed from a property in Chichester Cathedral close.   It was in that period that she began to worship with us in Portsmouth, finding sustenance in new friendships and in our fine music and worship.  
 
‘Keep on doing the things you have… seen in me’: these are words to live by for every Christian disciple, at whatever point in their lives – whether beginning something new like the incoming Deans of Chichester, Lincoln and Worcester, or carrying on living and working in the same place over decades.  And for those committed to issues of justice, such as all involved in the Fairtrade movement, such ‘keeping on’ is vital if a real difference is to be made.  We have many fine examples of such faithful persistence amongst our own congregation; do support them by supporting this Sundays Fairtrade breakfast available all morning in the Cathedral!
 
With my prayers and best wishes,
 
Anthony Cane
Dean of Portsmouth

Dates for your diary…

• Speak Their Name – 8 – 27 September, 10:00am – 3:00pm

• Restorative Training for Portsmouth Churches – 14 September, 4:30pm – 6:30pm

• Heritage Open Days – Tower Tours SOLD OUT– 15 September, 2:00pm – 2:50pm

• Portsmouth Authors Collective Book Signings – 19 September, 10:30am – 12:30pm

• Lunchtime Live Performance - David Henning – 19 September, 1:10pm – 2:00pm

• Speak Their Name – Vigil – 20 September, 2:00pm – 3:00pm

• Harvest Celebration Barn Dance & Hog Roast 2024 – 21 September, 6:30pm – 9:30pm

Community News 

Sustainability Sunday at Portsmouth Cathedral - this weekend!

This weekend is Sustainability Sunday, the time each September when we reflect the steps we take individually and as a Cathedral Community to conserve and protect our environment. In December 2023, we were delighted to be awarded Silver status by A Roche, an important step on our journey to Net Zero Carbon by 2030.

At the 11am Eucharist, we welcome Luke Maundrell and Emma Struckman from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIOWWT). Each year Chapter grants funds to other charities to help support their activities, HIOWWF is one of those charities. We are currently in the second year of a three-year commitment.  Luke and Emma will be interviewed by the Dean when we learn more about their work and how it is protecting our wildlife and promoting biodiversity.

At 9:30am for #PompeySunday, Clare Seek from the Portsmouth Library of Things will talk to us about how the library contributes to sustainability in the city, and how we can get involved.

Learn more about how we're working to reduce our carbon footprint →

Torchlight Mysteries – Murder at the Cathedral

The year is 1891, and a special evening is planned at The Church of St Thomas, orchestrated by the Aldermen of Portsmouth. The air buzzes with anticipation as ambitious rebuilding plans are about to be announced for the church. However, not everyone supports this endeavour. Just as the guests arrive and the speeches are poised to commence, tragedy strikes—the guest of honour is found dead.
 
Which of the suspects hates progress, who might be taking bribes to sabotage development, and who is desperate for the Three Tun Inn NOT to be demolished?

In this interactive and immersive theatre experience, you are the detective. Working in teams, you have only one hour to interrogate the suspects and unravel the mystery. The stakes are high; if you fail, someone will get away with murder. Fortunately, Portsmouth's most renowned detective stands ready to assist in solving this most perplexing of cases!
 
Join us for this thrilling event on Friday, 27 September. Feel free to come as you are or dress in your best Victorian / Steam – punk costume.
 
Session 1 - 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Session 2 - 8:00pm - 9:30pm (Adults only)

Book tickets online or in our shop

New Choir term and new Choir year

Our Cathedral Choir has returned from its summer break with the new Choral Scholars and Organ Scholar who are joining us for the year singing their first Choral Evensongs last week.

This Sunday, 15 September we will admit and welcome all the new members of the Cathedral Music Foundation at 5:45pm Evensong, our new Boy and Girl Head Choristers as well as our new Choral Scholars - Joel, Theo, Jimmy, Noah and George - and Organ Scholar Kim.

Fairtrade Fortnight

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Fairtrade.  In addition to an exhibition at the Cathedral and Fairtrade Breakfast on Sunday 15 September all are welcome at a special service 4pm Sunday 8 September at St Mary's, Fratton detailshere.

Pompey Sundays News

Last week at Pompey Sundays we held a "Blessing of Backpacks" in readiness for the new school year. The blessing extended to all sorts of bags used every day in our lives - work bags, music cases, baby change bags etc. - and everyone went home with a keying fixed to their bag with the reminder: "The Lord himself will go before you. He will not leave or forget you.  He will be with you. Do not be afraid.' (Deuteronomy 31:8)
 
This Sunday in Pompey Tots, to mark Sustainability Sunday, we look forward to welcoming Clare Seek from the Portsmouth Library of Things who chat to us about her work in the city and the special library she runs. All welcome.
 
On Sunday 22nd September we will celebrating Harvest and collecting food donations for the Roberts Centre. Please bring donations of tinned or dry food to the service or to the cathedral in the week following.

Dean Anthony to take part in the Great South Run

Having cheered on participants in the Great South Run as they passed the Cathedral and Deanery, I have (rashly) decided that this year I will have a go myself!  To spur me on, I will also be raising money for the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS).  When our third child was born with a hearing impairment, it was a worrying time as we had no experience of deafness in children and were fearful of what life would be like for him.  Discovering the NDCS was a real lifeline for us. 

They provided invaluable support and advice, as well as helping us to see how our son could thrive and reach his potential.  Although there were many obstacles to overcome, he has grown into a flourishing adult, and we are so grateful for the part the NDCS played in this.  I want to help support the NDCS in continuing its vital work with deaf children and their families.
 
On Sunday 20 October I’d grateful for your cheers and waves, and if you felt able to sponsor me as well that would be hugely appreciated.  My fundraising page can be found here.

Out and About
 

Canon Anthony will be leading the All Age Worship at St Mary's, Hayling Island on Sunday at 10.30am as part of the Ministry Team's ongoing commitment to supporting parishes.

Chapter

Last week we were pleased to announce the appointment of three new members of Chapter, the trustee body of the Cathedral.  Mark Emerton as Senior Non-Executive Member, appointed by the Bishop: Santosh Mathew and David King (also Chair of Finance) as Non-Executive members appointed by Chapter. 
 
Read more about themChapter Appointments — Portsmouth Cathedral
 
Following this successful recruitment round we continue to look for people who are willing to build on the commitment, enthusiasm and energy of members as the Cathedral diversifies its strategic thinking.

Role description and how to applyhere

Fabric Advisory Committee

We are looking for two new members to join Portsmouth Cathedral’s Fabric Advisory Committee (FAC). The committee has eight members. Half are appointed by Chapter. The other half are appointed by the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England.
 
Terms last five years, but members are eligible for reappointment. The chair is chosen from among the members.
 
We will celebrate our centenary in 1927 alongside that of both the City and Diocese and the Fabric Advisory Committee will play a critically important role in ensuring the conservation of our history as we prepare to serve our community for the next 100 years.
 
More details on the application pack here

Building Works

Scaffolding on the southside of the Nave is in place while re-pointing work is underway. The Archdeacons' nameboard has been temporarily removed for updating.

It will be returned next week and the Bishops' and Deans' board updated on site.The work is funded by Chapter as part of its ongoing commitment to the maintenance of the Cathedral's estate.

Nameboards

In the coming weeks, the nameboards of Bishops, Provosts, Deans and Archdeacons are being temporarily removed from the South Tower Transept while they are updated with additional names.

Change to Shop Opening Hours

From Tuesday 17 September Shop closing time will revert to 1500 every day.  Times will now be Tuesday to Saturday 1000-1500 and Sunday 1200-1500; closed on Monday.

Charity Quiz Night in aid of the Friends – 7 Oct

Early booking advised! The Costal Family Group, the firm that owns The A Bar, The Briny, Canteen and the 10th Hole will be holding a Quiz and Curry Night on Monday, 7th October 2024 at the 10th Hole.
 
All proceeds going to support the Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral.
 
The cost is £12.50 per head or £50 per table.  To find more about how to book a table for this popular event and to support The Friends please click on the link here.

Exploring the Bible: Mark's Gospel 

Canon Harriet will be leading a new series called "Exploring the Bible", starting in September. We will begin with Mark's Gospel and look to explore more books from both the Old and New Testaments during the year.
 
Mark's Gospel is thought to be the earliest of the four Gospels. It's written in a style that is direct and "to the point", an exciting and short read. It's an excellent place to start if you have been considering reading more of the Bible and delving into its depths!
 
Mark's Gospel will run from Monday 9 September, for 6 weeks. We'll meet on the following dates (all Mondays): 9, 16, 23, 30 September, 7, 14 October at 6.45pm in Bishop Kenneth Room.
 
All are welcome. You don't need to have any prior knowledge to take part, just a readiness to read, and enjoy some discussion. Please bring your own Bible.
 
If you would like to join, please email Canon Harriet at:harriet.neale-stevens@portsmouthcathedral.org.uk

Hampshire & IOW Memorial Quilt - On display until 27 September

The Hampshire & IOW Speak Their Name Suicide Memorial Quilt is a beautiful ongoing piece of art created with love in memory of people lost to suicide by their bereaved friends and family. This project has been inspired by the quilts made in Greater Manchester and Yorkshire.
 
If you would like to make a square for a loved one you can get in touch with the Hampshire and IOW group, by emailinghampshirequilt@gmail.com.

Restorative Training for Portsmouth Churches, Saturday 14 September

Christians across Portsmouth are invited to a Restorative Training Day, which will be delivered by John Swindell of Portsmouth Mediation Service.
 
Restorative Practice teaches people relational skills, which strengthens relationships and equips people with the skills to positively handle conflict. Restorative Practice follows the biblical mandate of ‘peace and reconciliation’.
 
These restorative skills will be beneficial to the whole church and for anyone in a leadership role, it will provide them with a restorative approach to leading which has maximum impact but with the minimum stress. 
 
The day runs from 9:00am to 4:30pm on Saturday 14 September at St Margaret’s Church, Highland Road, Southsea.
 
For more information and to book, click here:

Ride and Stride 2024 – Saturday 14 September

Portsmouth Cathedral will once again be welcoming Riders and Striders for the annual event in aid of Hampshire and the Islands Historic Churches Trust. 
 
We also hope to put together a team of Riders and Striders to support the Trust through sponsorship as they visit other churches in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight that day.   50% of the sponsorship raised is returned to your nominated church so your participation can also help the Cathedral.  If you would be interested in taking part please contact us through info@portsmouthcathedral.org.uk. 

Anna Chaplaincy - World Alzheimer's Day Coffee Morning – Saturday 21 September 

World Alzheimer's Day will be observed on Saturday 21 September.  The day is dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and combatting the stigma associated with various forms of dementia. 
 
The Anna Chaplaincy invites anyone affected by dementia including carers, friends and family to join them in the Cathedral Nave for light refreshments and an opportunity to reflect, from 10:30am until 12:00pm.
 
Alzheimer’s disease is among the most prevalent forms of dementia, which is a set of disorders that disrupt mental function.  It is estimated that 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 and 1 in every 6 people over the age of 80 will be affected by Alzheimer's in the UK.
 
Anna Chaplaincy – a ministry of the Christian charity BRF – has been established specifically to provide care for older people, especially those living in care homes and sheltered accommodation, and to their families and the staff that look after them.
 
Anna Chaplains promote the spiritual welfare of older people in the wider community, particularly those facing challenges living independently.  Anna Chaplains are named after the widow, Anna, who appears with Simeon in Luke’s gospel; both are good role models of faithful older people.

Harvest Celebration Barn Dance & Hog Roast – Saturday 21 September 

Dig out your checked shirts, brush off those cowboy boots and join us for a for an evening of lively entertainment and traditional dancing lead by the Woodsiders Ceilidh & Barn Dance Band. 
 
Doors open 6:30pm, dancing commences at 7:00pm with a break for a Hog Roast supper at 8:00pm. 
 
This is a fundraising event for Portsmouth Cathedral Choir Association
 
Tickets include Hog Roast or vegan alternative: Adults £20, Children £10, Under 5s and small dogs free, cash bar.

Get your tickets here.

Harvest Festival Services on Sunday 22nd September

We are celebrating Harvest Festival at the 8am, 9.30 and 11am services on Sunday 22nd September. Joining with other local parishes and schools, any food donations will go to support the Roberts Centre, helping those locally on the margins and especially young families who are suffering from food poverty. Please bring any contributions (of food in tins and packets) next Sunday or during the following week.

Choral Evensong at 5.45pm on Sunday 22 September with Installations

Choral Evensong at 5:45pm on Sunday 22 September will include the installation of: the Revd Richard England, the Revd Annie McCabe, the Revd Dr Susie Collingridge and the Revd Andrew Sheard as Honorary Canons; the Revd Amanda Collison and Becky Clark as Canons of Honour and our new members of Chapter.  The service will be sung by the Cathedral Choir (Girl Choristers) with music  by Howells (Gloucester Service) and Byrd (Sing Joyfully to the Lord) The preacher will be Bishop Jonathan.

Becky Clark who is currently the Director of Development and Commerce, Falkland Islands will join the service through an online link.

Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral AGM – Sunday 22 September

We look forward to seeing many members of the Friends at the AGM on Sunday 22 September. The meeting will be held in Becket Hall at 4:00pm and our President, Bishop Jonathan, will be present. Tea/coffee will be available after the meeting.

More details here.

Portsmouth Cathedral Institute – Professor Stephen Schneck – Wednesday 10 October

From his unique vantage point as Chair of a major US Federal Body mitigating human rights risks globally, a Presidential advisor and well known academic and media contributor on social justice, social inclusion and climate risks, Professor Schenck will explore these topics live in Portsmouth just a few weeks out from one of the closest fought Presidential elections in US history.

The Fishermen's Mission - Sea Showcase – Monday 14 October 

Portsmouth and our surrounding coastline have a steep history of deep-sea fishing and the industry around it. Come along to an evening including singalong sea shanties, stories, poems, films, crafts and more! Produced and in support of The Fishermen’s Mission.

Learn more and book online →

Worship & Visiting

Every day, Portsmouth Cathedral is open for worship, prayer, and visiting. Unless otherwise specified, services do not require booking. Our website contains orders of service, as well as information about visiting the Cathedral.

Prayers & Intercessions

We pray for Jamie to be baptised on Sunday.
 
We remember the following for whom prayer has been asked by members of the Cathedral Community:  Sue, Elizabeth, Jane, Chris, Tom, Wendy, Richard, Zoe, Paul, Gemma  and all in need.  
 
We continue to pray for the long-term sick, including: Rosy, John, Alistair, Alison, Jill, Suzy, Philip, Mathai, Graeme, Muriel and Geraldine.
 
We remember those who have died recently, including: Joan Benning (Burial of Ashes - date tbc) and Margaret Wilson.
Remembering also Jack Nisbet who died a year ago on 16th September. RIP.

 Upcoming Services & Events

Getting in touch

Please feel free to get in touch if we can help in any way, or if you just want to hear another voice!

Get in touch with us by email to info@portsmouthcathedral.org.uk or leave a message via phone on 023 9282 3300.

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