On International Day of Peace, our Canon Treasurer The Reverend Vanessa Baron, has been exploring how our upcoming Peace Doves exhibition, opening on Saturday 30th September, aligns with this year's theme of Actions for Peace.
International Day of Peace invites people from all walks of life to commit to putting aside their differences and to work together for peace. Canon Vanessa shares how our awe-inspiring art installation by the artist Peter Walker, provides a unique opportunity for people to come to Chichester Cathedral and actively reflect on their hopes for peace. In addition, it gives an opportunity to seek God and ask Him how we can live out His peace and reconciliation in our own lives.
The spiritual journey under Peace Doves
At the Cathedral, we believe that Peace Doves is more than just a visual spectacle. That is why, we have curated a spiritual trail that will deepen visitors’ connection with the artwork and its symbolic call for peace.
In the hustle and bustle of our lives, we often yearn for moments of serenity and tranquillity. Sometimes, it is these moments of peace that empower us to create harmony in our own lives and extend it to the world around us. As you walk through the exhibition, let peace wash over you, let it inspire you, and let it remind you of the difference we can make when we come together with a shared intention - peace.
Dotted throughout the Cathedral will be several stations, each with an invitation for prayer and action. One such station will be at the St Clements Chapel, where visitors will be able to light a candle, and pray for the peace of world.
.jpg)
Peace Doves by Peter Walker, Rochester Cathedral
A flock of hopes and wishes for peace
Peace Doves is more than simply a work of art. It forms a flock composed of thousands of hopes and wishes for peace.
For the many thousands who have added their voice to our Peace Doves installation, it provides a deeply personal connection. It is a rare opportunity for them to witness their messages, aspirations, and dreams etched on the soaring doves — a visual testament to their commitment to the cause of peace. Their words become part of a collective chorus of calls for peace, reminding us of the impact individuals can have when they unite for a common purpose.
As you explore the exhibition, all visitors will be warmly invited to write a message of peace that will be displayed throughout the exhibition in our Transepts.
.png)
Joining a community through worship
During Peace Doves, we have a poignant event on the horizon — the Requiem for All Souls Eucharist Service on Thursday 2nd November at 5.30pm. Throughout the day, and at the service, we commemorate the souls of the faithful departed. Ahead of the day, we will invite members of our community to contribute names of loved ones who have passed away, forming part of the service.
As we journey through Peace Doves, it is fitting to note that its closing day coincides with Remembrance Sunday. This special service encourages us to consider issues of conflict and peace, loss and self-gift, memory and forgetting. On Sunday 12th November, an Act of Remembrance will be held at 10.55am under the doves, and services will be taking place throughout the day for all to attend.
Our regular services will continue throughout the exhibition period including our Choral Evensong service, featuring The Chichester Cathedral Choir, every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout term-time from 5:30pm to 6:15pm. To see upcoming services at Chichester Cathedral, click here>>
.jpg)
Being a peacemaker is a shared calling that extends to all of humanity. As we bask in the beauty of our Peace Doves exhibition, may the spirit of peace inspire us to take meaningful actions for a more harmonious world. Let us remember that in our collective commitment to peace, we form a strong community that commemorates the past, honours the present, and aspires to a more peaceful future.
We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to Peace Doves from Saturday 30th September. As we appreciate the art, let us also come together in prayer and action to nurture lasting peace in our hearts, our families, our communities, and all of creation.