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.

Mondays, 9, 23, and 31 March, Wilderness Journeys

7:00-8:30 pm

‘Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness…’

Our Lent series this year offers space for prayer and reflection, meditating on Jesus’ journey in the wilderness, and our own wilderness journeys. All are welcome. Stop for just a little while or stay for the whole evening.

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

Cathedral open 7:30-9:30 pm

We sometimes throw this question around as a challenge, a dare, and yet many of us face very real fears in our daily lives: fear of the future, of hurt, of betrayal, of death. How do we handle these fears? What can we do with them? This Halloween night, you’re invited to bring those fears and hold them up to see them in a different light. Christ Church Cathedral will be open from 7:30 pm with interactive prayer installations relating to day-to-day fears. Prayer ministry will also be available for those who would like someone to pray with them about a need. An alternative style All Saints’ Eucharist begins at 8 pm. The cathedral will remain open until 9:30 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.