Our Purpose

Peterborough Cathedral is a powerful sign of the Christian faith and still operates as a living and working church. We are part of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion - but what exactly does this mean?

Christianity is based on two simple beliefs. Christians believe firstly, that human beings are not alone in the universe, and that life makes more sense when lived in response to God. Secondly, they believe that God has made himself known through Jesus Christ. The rest of Christian doctrine and theology is really only commentary on these two convictions.

The result is a faith whose core values are generosity, forgiveness and hope. It is also a faith in which story is more important than dogma, as we try to make sense of our human story by holding it up to the light of the Jesus story.

The Cathedral building tries to reflect these truths in its size, its beauty, and its ‘otherness’. It is in some ways an inexplicable building which makes little practical sense, and yet it makes its presence felt, rising over the city and symbolically defining it.

It is also a building which tells the story of Jesus, in the cross-shaped ground plan, in the crucifix dominating the interior, in sculpture, stained glass and worship.

It is a place in which the Jesus story seems more plausible than in a shopping centre, and it was designed to make the encounter between people and God more natural and more deeply felt. That encounter is as much a possibility today as when the Cathedral was built.

At the Cathedral we try to provide regular opportunities for people with little or no knowledge of Christianity to discover more by joining a short course, which if desired can lead to Confirmation.

Alternatively, we have a number of ways to share in worship including study groups and associations. We can also recommend reading material or other resources to help those wanting to know more. Or you might like simply to join us for one of our services.

If you would like to know more about the Christian faith, contact Canon Missioner Jonathan Baker jonathan.baker@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or 01733 355310.