Visitors who saw it, especially at night, found this a deeply moving reminder of the beauty and fragility of the earth. It invited us to reflect on the urgent need to protect the planet, and in so doing secure the future of all the peoples of the earth. Floods and fires around the world over recent months have only served to reinforce the increasing sense of urgency that many feel.

The first sight of Gaia for our visitors on entering the nave was, of course, of the great figure of Christ on the cross with its Latin motto meaning (appropriately enough): 'The cross stands while the world is turning'. After a year of political, economic and environmental turmoil, it is that same Christ whose birth we mark once more this Christmas. God’s love is made visible in the vulnerability of a tiny child, and that love underpins the whole universe. It also gives us the courage and strength to play our part in bringing healing and hope to our families, our communities and to the world itself. For “to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God”.

So we look forward with confidence and excitement to all the New Year will bring, and meanwhile thank you for your support of Peterborough Cathedral. I pray that you may know the peace and joy of Christ this Christmas.

Photo credit: Matthew Roberts