10.02.2026
Christ Church Cathedral Delegation Attends Northern European Cathedrals Conference
A delegation from Christ Church Cathedral Dublin attended the Northern European Cathedrals Conference in Exeter Cathedral. The conference took place from February 3rd to 6th and explored the theme ‘Cathedrals: Seats of Wisdom’. The delegation from Dublin comprised of Archbishop Michael Jackson, Canon Paul Arbuthnot and the Director of Music at Christ Church Cathedral, Tom Little.
The conference was an opportunity for clergy and lay workers associated with cathedral life to meet, pray and explore common themes connected with their respective Christian ministries. Delegates from the conference were drawn from a diverse range of countries including Ireland, Scotland, England, Germany, Sweden, Norway and Estonia.
The conference was addressed by prominent academics such as Dr Eleanor Parker of Oxford University who spoke on the medieval Book of Exeter, as well as Professor Morwenna Ludlow who gave a lecture on ‘The Theology of Wisdom’.
During the conference, Evensong was broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 and included a newly commissioned anthem by the composer Nico Mulhy. Another liturgy was recorded for Sunday morning worship on Radio 4. Both the Archbishop of Dublin and Canon Arbuthnot were invited to robe and process at these services. The Archbishop celebrated the Eucharist on the Wednesday morning of the conference.
Canon Arbuthnot commented: “It was a delight to be present at this conference. It was an especially fruitful gathering as it encompassed our partners in the Porvoo Communion. It was a delight to join the rhythm of the worshipping life of Exeter Cathedral, to be enriched by the outstandingly excellent lectures, and the many different perspectives drawn from cathedral life across cathedral Northern Europe.”
Archbishop Jackson added: “The opportunity to participate in the conference enabled me to review afresh the role and the ministry of the cathedral itself. A cathedral derives its vitality from its public expression of a confident faith in God and an open welcome to all who cross its threshold. Not surprisingly, the bedrock of our experience in Exeter was regular worship. I was delighted to be accompanied by Canon Paul Arbuthnot, and Mr Tom Little, Cathedral Director of Music.”