Cathedral Nights - Christ Church Cathedral Dublin : Christ Church Cathedral Dublin

Pause. Breathe. Pray.

At the end of a busy day, this is an invitation to make space.

Christ Church Cathedral runs an occasional series of special open evenings intended to help you make space in your day for prayer and reflection. The format of the evenings varies but all generally include music, readings from scripture, and suggestions for ways to creatively engage in prayer. Stop for just a little while or stay for the whole evening. All are welcome and these events are free of charge.

Tuesday, 25 August, Embodied Prayer

7:00-8:00 pm

Quieting the body and focusing on the breath is a way of bringing our attention into the present. Each moment becomes an invitation to know God’s presence. Using gentle movement we will explore a sequence of seated stretches to release tension from the neck and shoulders, followed by standing and walking. Maintaining awareness of body and breath, we will explore how each step, each breath and each moment can help us open to God’s presence. The evening will also include the opportunity, to walk the labyrinth in the cathedral grounds. The session will be led by Emma Fitzgerald. Emma is a parishioner and youth group leader in St Patrick’s Greystones. Formerly a professional contemporary dancer, she has performed in the Cathedral as part of its creative Lenten reflection programme. She aims to do all things to the glory of God and to use her dance experience to create shared pathways into prayer.

Saturday, 31 October, Halloween Night: What are you afraid of?

Cathedral open 7:00-9:00 pm

This year has been challenging, and heart-breaking, for many in Ireland and around the world. How do we process the emotions of anxiety, fear and loss which we feel? This year in our annual ‘What are you afraid of?’ service we will make space to pray about the impacts that the coronavirus pandemic has had on lives and livelihoods around the world, as well as other fears and anxieties we may be facing. Doors open at 7:00 pm, with an alternative style All Saints’ Eucharist beginning at 7:30 pm. The cathedral will remain open until 9:00 pm.

Tuesday, 1 December, Watching and Waiting

7:00-8:30 pm

This time of year can be so busy we need intentionally to make space to slow down. This evening will include a series of short meditations on Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. There will reflective music and a peaceful atmosphere offering you time and space to pray for yourself, your loved ones and for the needs of our world.

Tuesday, 15 December, A Quiet Christmas, Taizé Eucharist with Prayers for Wholeness and Healing

7:30-9:00 pm

The time leading up to Christmas can be difficult for many people. Bereavement, illness, family strains, and other stresses can mean the season is not one of excitement but of sadness or loneliness. This quiet and reflective service provides a peaceful space in which to rest in the Christmas message of hope in the one who is ‘God with us’. Prayers for wholeness and healing are available for those who wish to receive this ministry.