Welcome to the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral.
Welcome to the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral. Come on in to visit, to pray, or join in with uplifting worship.
When you arrive at the Transitional Cathedral, you will find a crib scene depicting the new-born Christ and the Holy Family, which will now also show the arrival of the Magi, who, guided by a star, come with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. This is the second part of the story of Jesus’ birth that is celebrated at Epiphany. While on Christmas Day the Church celebrates God’s humble entrance into human life as a new-born child, the second feast (Epiphany) celebrates the glory of God in the new-born child being made available to all the world. The Magi, in the world of Jesus, were absolute outsiders; and it was these unexpected pilgrims who are among the first to welcomed by Jesus. This will become a pattern in Jesus’ life later on, as he will welcome outsiders into the Kingdom of God and end up with two thieves as companions when he dies on the cross. When we see those that Jesus connects with and opens his heart to welcome, we begin to see the height, depth, and breadth of his love which extends to all people. The Feast of Epiphany and the arrival of the Magi tell us all are called, welcomed and accepted by God. My prayer is that when you come to this Cathedral you will experience this welcome of God and know this God’s love is for you.
This is a great time to visit the Transitional Cathedral and all are welcome. The Transitional Cathedral remains “dressed” for Christmas. The beautiful nativity scene will remain in place for the month of January so that all can come and adore the Christ-child and make their hearts a place where he is welcome. The Christmas Tree is in place at present but will come down on Thursday 7 January or soon after.
This Epiphany may Christ’s bright star enlighten your mind and heart and bring us all to see God at work in the world; and may you all know the blessing of God this Epiphany.
Lawrence Kimberley
Dean.
The Very Rev’d Lawrence Kimberley, Dean of Christchurch