Private Prayer--Public Sacred Space - Reflection by Dean Sue

Words fail me as I try to put into words how glad I am that Liverpool Cathedral Lady Chapel, a public sacred space, has reopened for private prayer. In fact I find it very emotional. Over the past three months I have been challenged by my own understanding of what faith is about when I see the Cathedral that was built by the people for the people to the Glory of God locked to the people of this city. I fully understand why. We need to keep people safe and we are endeavouring to do this as we re-open with strict social distancing rules and cleaning regimens.
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Many people have argued and continue to argue that we don’t need churches to pray in. I would argue that churches and especially cathedrals enable the prayers of all God’s people to be offered in a sacred public space. For me there is something sacred about sitting, kneeling or standing in Liverpool Cathedral and offering to God our daily prayers. Since Liverpool Cathedral was founded, prayer has been offered in this space and the stones of Liverpool Cathedral have soaked up these prayers and continue to soak up prayer. I often get an overwhelming feeling of peace and comfort when I visit cathedrals and churches, and when I reflect on the many thousands of people who through the centuries have offered prayers for the world, for people and for the Church.

Liverpool Cathedral points us to something greater than ourselves; it points us to the Glory of God. Liverpool Cathedral is perched on top of a hill over-looking the City of Liverpool and it is there for all people and not just the Sunday congregation. Within any cathedral there is a ‘hidden congregation,’ those who come and offer prayer discretely and quietly though the lighting of candles or through the writing of prayers. They are as much part of Liverpool Cathedral as the Sunday congregation.

Cathedrals and faith communities in general have a lot to offer the common good of society. What Liverpool Cathedral offers is public sacred space that bring, solace, comfort and stability. The very action of prayer in this place enhances the well-being and peace of people.

Liverpool Cathedral is a public sacred space where people come in joy and in sorrow to offer something of themselves and to encounter the God who knows and loves them. I hope and pray that we will continue to be able to offer a public sacred space for private prayer for all people of this city and region for generations to come.
 
Dean Sue

While you're here:
Why not prepare for next Sunday's worship? Our preparation sheet for adults and for children can be accessed by clicking on the Resources tab of this website: https://www.prayerforliverpool.org/prayer-resources.html.