Cathedral Centenary

Sparkling Celebration

Photos by Patrick Trollope, Dave Kent & Dave  Evans.

 

Photograph above by Patrick Trollope

THE Liverpool Anglican Cathedral was the focus of a great spectacle last sunday nightas a record breaking firework display rent the skies above it, witnessed by an enormous crowd below. It was seen for thirty miles also beyond the city. The event was a statement to mark the eve of the Cathedral's 100th Birthday. 6 tonnes of material previously hoisted onto the roof of Liverpool's 660 feet long, 331 feet high Anglican Cathedral were set off during a 20 minute display with synchronised music. Over 125 individually timed cue points and 15 different firing sites on building roof yielded a stunning display that revealed the cathedral's splendid architecture. The music started with Hallelujah Chorus and, as Liverpool will be European Capital of Culture 2008, it concluded with the European Anthem. The music was selected in the main to mark the changes of culture since the cathedral's foundation stone was laid on July 19, 1904 by King Edward VII. Not only was the music played to the masses below the display, but it was also broadcast all over the city and beyond thanks to Radio City. This display by Fantastic Fireworks did the 5th largest cathedral in Europe proud.

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Photographs were taken by Patrick Trollope from the NCP car park on Hanover St. Dave Kent on the roof of Liverpool Radio City and Dave Evans from the Birkenhead.

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Cathedral Centenary

Celebration Service

 

Photograph above by Patrick Trollope

IN contrast to Sunday nights display, on Monday 19 July 2004, the Cathedral was the setting for a very moving centenary celebration service, attended by the Duke and Duchess of Wessex, many ecclesiastic and public dignitaries from near and far, including the Bishop of Cologne and other representatives from Liverpool's twinned city, as well as the Bishop of Akure and other representatives (Nigeria). 

To the accompaniment of thrilling organ music (Respighi's Pines of Rome), the architectural beauty of the building was revealed bit by bit, by illumination, to demonstrate the achievements of architects, craftsmen and artists. The processions represented all aspects of cathedral life. During the service we were reminded of the building's ability to inspire and up-lift but also of the role of people in fulfilling the work of the Church. We celebrated the history of the cathedral but were also exhorted to consider the future! 

Most of the congregation had arrived in brilliant sunshine but unfortunatly rain duly appeared and considerably marred the open-air refreshments which followed the service. Nevertheless, all who attended seemed very inspired and heartened by what they had heard in this unique service.