Epiphany Evensong

The Trustees of Bristol Cathedral Trust were delighted to attend a very special Epiphany Evensong at Bristol Cathedral on 12^th January, joined by more than 20 members of the Fitzhardinge Society. This was the first Fitz event to be held in Bristol Cathedral for around 18 months, and it felt particularly fitting to gather again in this much-loved place at Epiphany, a time of renewal.

The service itself was deeply moving, and the Cathedral Choir were in excellent voice. Their rendition of Harold Darke’s ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ was spine-tinglingly beautiful. The congregation was then treated to a wonderful surprise from the Assistant Organist, Paul Walton, who gave a powerful and evocative improvisation on the organ at the end of the service. It was a magnificent demonstration of the extraordinary sound of the refurbished organ and a breath-taking experience that reminded everyone of the richness of the Cathedral’s musical life and its ability to bring people together throughout the year.

Following the service, the Trustees hosted a reception for Fitz Members in the Seafarers’ Chapel, with delicious canapés and Crémant. Revd Canon and Vice Dean Neil Patterson gave a warm welcome to the Fitz, and the conversation flowed easily in an atmosphere full of warmth and good cheer. Trustees were especially pleased to be joined by the former Canon, Nicola Stanley, alongside Mark Lee, the Cathedral’s Director of Music and Paul Walton, Assistant Organist.

Chair of Trustees, Stephen Parsons MBE DL, said: “We are very grateful to the Revd Canon and Vice Dean Neil Patterson for his support and kind words at the Epiphany party, and to the newly appointed Curate Tatiana for leading the service and inspiring us. This was a joyful occasion and one that many of us felt marked the beginning of a renewal moment, not only for the Fitzhardinge Society, but for our wider relationship with the Dean and Chapter.”

There is much positive activity taking place behind the scenes at the Cathedral and the Epiphany party offered an excellent opportunity to hear updates first hand. The Cathedral team have been carefully planning and beginning the relocation of the tomb of David, Abbot of St Augustine’s from 1216 to 1234 and master architect of the early Romanesque Abbey. As the visionary behind the remarkable eastern Lady Chapel, it seems both right and fitting that his tomb should be relocated there. This sensitive and well-considered project reflects the Cathedral’s ongoing commitment to honouring its history while caring responsibly for its fabric.

Now that the historic organ has been restored, improved access within the Cathedral is a key focus. Following the recent enhancements to access in the Seafarers’ Chapel, plans are now being developed to install a lift providing access from the Cathedral down to the Cloister, cafe and toilets. This would likely be located where the current Verger’s cubby stands, which will itself be thoughtfully relocated. When the costings are finalised, Bristol Cathedral Trust may be able to support this important project.

Certainly, the Trustees are enthusiastic about helping to ensure that the Cathedral not only has a historic organ fit for the 21st century but also offers inclusive access so that everyone can experience all areas of this extraordinary building.

“Looking ahead,” said Stephen, “we are also excited to be strengthening our longstanding partnership with Berkeley Castle, following our wonderful visit there in September, including a personal tour given by Charles Berkeley, who is an honorary lifetime member of the Fitzhardinge Society. We very much look forward to welcoming Charles and his team to the Cathedral later this year as we continue to nurture this 900-year-old partnership.”

Indeed, there is much to look forward to. Fitz events during 2026 will include a special walking tour of the Cathedral in mid-February, to be led by Chris Jones, Clerk of Works; and Fitz members are encouraged to ‘save the date’ of Friday 8th May at 7.00pm, when the Cathedral will host a very special concert given by the internationally renowned organist, David Briggs, celebrating the magnificence of the refurbished organ. Liz White and her family will be in attendance, representing the Harry Crook Foundation, whose generous support made the Cathedral organ refurbishment project possible.