This week we get a glimpse of life in Wakefield Cathedral as it launches a new family heritage project as part of our year long campaign to celebrate all that we are and all that we do here in the Diocese of Leeds.
Rediscovering Our Heritage is an interactive discovery arcade for families and children; an interactive space that tells the story of Wakefield Cathedral’s rich and varied heritage through giant jigsaws, interactive games and window rubbings.
The project was funded by the Heritage Lottery as part of the Cathedral’s Project 2015 which saw the east end of the building renewed and was finished last year.
Rediscover our Heritage was officially opened on Saturday 22 October in time for Half Term last year when children were invited to discover it for themselves with free face painting, balloon-modelling and archaeological pits. Sweet Cathedral rock was produced for the launch and is now on sale in the Cathedral Gift Shop.
The Dean of Wakefield, the Very Revd Jonathan Greener said: “We have always said Wakefield Cathedral is here for the whole community and by opening up the building to new and younger generations, this is a positive step towards making that a reality.
“We have worked hard to reimagine the space we have so children can engage with the building and learn more about its rich and history and heritage,” he said.
Over the last year – hundreds of visitors – young and old alike – have submitted feedback to say how much they have enjoyed the Discovery Arcade …like ceramicist Jo Lee picutred left trying out one of the interactive games...and these reports back to the Heritage Lottery Funded project...
I would like to thank you for our special time at the Cathedral. The children thoroughly enjoyed the activities and the experience of being in a religious setting. The activities in the different areas gave the children the opportunity to explore the building and become more aware of the different sections of the Cathedral. (Miss Howgate (Class teacher), St. James’ Primary via email July 2017)
And these three young at heart ladies…Hi - My two friends and I had a wonderful time in your lovely cathedral today. We intended to have a look at the cathedral then go for lunch and then on to Nostell Priory, but over lunch we discussed how the cathedral seemed such a friendly relaxed place with stunning features so we decided to abandon our plans in favour of spending the day at the cathedral - which we did indeed do and we had the time of our lives.
What a super building you have to worship our God in.
My friends are 90, 89 and I am 70 and we felt like kids again as between us we completed the giant jigsaws after much good-natured banter! Thank you for a day well spent. Mags Stead via Facebook Oct 2016)
[Video:https://youtu.be/bDGc9QQz1no]