Durham Cathedral opens brand new space for pilgrimage and prayer

The Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer provides a welcoming and accessible space for individuals and groups arriving in Durham as pilgrims.

Centred on the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the centre will create opportunities for people to engage with the Christian faith through activities that inspire, resource and equip.

Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham, said: "The completion of the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer is a moment of great joy and an opportunity to give thanks to God.

"This project has been many years in the making and it was wonderful to welcome so many of the people whose generosity, commitment and support have helped turn a shared vision into reality.

"I am especially thankful for the financial support of the Friends of Durham Cathedral and the Ardeola Charitable Trust whose generosity has made this project possible."

Caroline Peacock, chair of Friends of Durham Cathedral, said: "The Friends of Durham Cathedral, a community of more than 3,000 members around the world, are delighted, deeply honoured and indeed moved to be the principal funders of the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer.

"It is a privilege to help bring this vision to fruition and to support a centre that will encourage pilgrimage, prayer and hospitality for future generations."

Members of the public are invited to attend a special open day at the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer on Saturday, September 26.

Visitors will be able to explore the new space and discover opportunities to get involved in the centre’s future programme, including pilgrimages, retreat days and volunteering opportunities.

James Shelton, director of the Cuthbert Centre for Pilgrimage and Prayer, said: "The renovated Chapel of the Holy Cross and accompanying new spaces really are remarkable to inhabit, and I am so grateful to the many people and organisations who have helped to make this possible.

"The new ministry that will be based from the centre has so much exciting potential to bring people from all backgrounds together in a shared exploration of pilgrimage, prayer and Christian faith.

"I pray that its long-term impact will reach far beyond the building itself, benefiting communities across the region and strengthening Durham's place within the wider pilgrimage landscape.”