Norwich Cathedral praised for bringing different communities together

Norwich Cathedral has been praised for its work bringing different religious communities together as part of a government report into some of the UK's largest places of worship.

The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) published a report looking at the impact England's 42 Anglican cathedrals have on their communities, whether it be in promoting religious activity or promoting economic growth.

It said that: 'Nurturing strong interfaith dialogue is perhaps one of the greatest roles cathedrals have in our communities today' - and praised Norwich Cathedral's interfaith choir as a 'great example' of projects which 'bring communities together to celebrate the things they have in common'.

The report, Cathedrals and their Communities, also said there was evidence in Norwich that: 'Local faith leaders were closely connected, often working together to share understanding through interfaith forums, conferences and events.'

Minister for faith Lord Bourne, who embarked on a year-long tour of the nation's Anglican cathedrals for the report, said: 'There is no better time to remind ourselves of the strong role cathedrals play in our national life than at Christmas, as worshippers gather in naves across the country to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

'This year-long tour has given me a real understanding of how the innovation and vibrancy displayed by cathedral staff and their congregations is ensuring that these important churches continue to play a crucial role at the heart of local communities now and for centuries to come.

'The report highlights a number of great examples cathedral staff working hard at preserving our local cultural heritage, engaging with a diverse range of communities while continuing their spiritual duties. I look forward to hearing about further successes in the future.'

The Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, chairman of the Association of English Cathedrals, said: 'Lord Bourne's report is a really helpful endorsement of all that our English cathedrals are trying to be and do.

'We want to continue as places of welcome and be able to offer spiritual hospitality and friendship to all.

'We're grateful to the government for taking the time and trouble to conduct such a thorough programme of visits and investigation and for finding out what we do and what our ambitions for the future are.

'I hope the report will be widely read.'