Lichfield Cathedral is issuing a unique invitation to the women of the West Midlands (and beyond) to help save its spectacular Lady Chapel windows. These wonderful renaissance glass works were originally installed in the Flemish Abbey of Herkenrode and were brought to Lichfield in 1802. The glass constitutes one of the most important treasures in the whole of Europe.
On Saturday 11 September 2010 the Cathedral invites women of all ages (and their families) to come to Lichfield and donate pieces of jewellery that they no longer use or wear. It might be jewellery from a previous relationship or an item inherited or passed from a relative or friend. The day is a celebration of womanhood: the opportunity to give away a special treasure and be part of an act of worship and period of reflection on memories, love, relationships and life’s experience. The gifts of jewellery will help fund the urgent conservation and repair of the Lady Chapel windows. Truly this will be treasure exchanged for the long term security of a remarkable treasure.
Queen Elizabeth I saved English Cathedrals for the nation. She will be represented by Lesley Smith of Tutbury Castle on September 11, and so by the force of historical re-enactment, Queen Elizabeth will be present to receive gifts, seated in state, with a wooden treasure chest at her side guarded by four knights in armour.
The Cathedral welcomes gifts of gold, silver, precious and semi precious stones, costume and damaged jewellery. Everyone who makes an offering will be asked to sign a great book which will form part of the Cathedral’s archives and will be recorded as part of the Cathedral’s history.
There will be a Service of Thanksgiving at 2:30pm to celebrate the good days and happiness the jewellery represents - a positive and healing service of joy and celebration.
Saturday 11 September 2010 – Come to the Cathedral at any time from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, with a Service of Thanksgiving and Celebration at 2:30pm.
For further information please visit www.lichfield-cathedral.org
