RE PGCE trainees were over awed by the magnificent splendour of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral during a visit on Friday 20th September. Once again we were hosted by our superb tour guide Helen, a former secondary school teacher and a fount of knowledge. Helen explored the deep symbolism and religious significance of the Cathedral and its history.

We started our tour at the West door with its wonderful Tracey Emin art, “I felt you and I knew that you loved me”, a statement that could be interpreted as an expression of the Christian message. Helen explained the role of the Cathedral within the diocese, its outreach work into the community and the vision of Giles Gilbert Scott who designed the Great Space. The beauty of the nave and the main well contrasted with the intimacy of the quiet spiritual spaces of the Holy Spirit Chapel and the Lady Chapel.
We concluded our tour at the High Altar and the East Window, a fitting place to end our exploration with the empty cross and the symbolising the resurrection as testament to the Christian message.

I have little doubt that everyone was impressed and that there will be repeat bookings as a result. Within the RE team we aim to give our trainees a network of contacts within the faith communities so they can use these experiences to deepen their learners understanding of the real presence of people of faith within our communities.

Thanks to Rob Duffy for his excellent pictures!