Chichester Cathedral marks 950 years with exhibition exploring faith and humanity

Published 00:00 on 16 Jan 2025

Nine centuries of Sussex history unfold through artefacts revealing stories of resilience, rebellion and reformation.

To celebrate its 950th anniversary in 2025, Chichester Cathedral presents Religion, Rebellion & Reformation, a compelling exhibition curated by its Canon Treasurer, the Reverend Canon Vanessa Baron.

Running from 14th February to 15th November 2025, the exhibition is at the heart of the Cathedral's Chichester950 celebrations. Featuring artefacts and treasures contributed by local parishes and community groups, it brings together pieces from churches, archives and libraries across the Diocese of Chichester, which spans over 100 miles through East and West Sussex.

Covering 950 years of history, each artefact represents a century of Sussex heritage, uncovering stories of faith, resilience and transformation through the lives of educators, thinkers, reformers and rebels.

The exhibition includes medieval Bishops' rings, a 12th-century reliquary, a 15th-century theological treatise and a Bible carried into the trenches during World War I. Together, these artefacts offer a profound insight into Sussex's heritage and its ties to the Christian faith.

The Reverend Canon Vanessa Baron said: "Faith is intricately woven into the exhibition. Each artefact speaks of how faith has provided strength, hope and purpose for both lay and ordained individuals across the centuries."

Human stories across centuries

The artefacts featured in the display each embody the challenges and transformations of its time, inviting visitors to reflect on the role faith has in shaping lives. Through themes of religion, rebellion and reformation, the exhibition explores how faith has influenced responses to hardship, conflict and change.

"It's important to stress that this exhibition is not only about faith; it is about human stories. The Cathedral isn't solely a religious buildingit belongs to everyone. The compelling stories within this exhibition are as much a part of Sussex history as they are of Christianity."

Canon Vanessa added: "We face many of the same challenges today as our ancestors did. The questions of faith and resilience are timeless."