Cathedral decorations

Press, 8 March 1984, Page 20

Cathedral decorations

Sir,—As a visitor to your fair city I would like to say how impressed I was with the gardens as we drove down Memorial Avenue. Never, anywhere in the world, have I seen such a beautiful approach from an airport to any city. I loved it. I loved your Town Hall and the fountain, one of the most beautiful man-made things I have ever seen. I loved the prizewinning gardens — the Sanitarium factory gardens, and the small gardens in every suburb. I loved all the new and old buildings and shops in the city; but, oh dear, when I saw what had been done to your lovely Cathedral, I was appalled. I do not know who was responsible, but I hope your new bishop has the courage to remove

that pink monstrosity from behind that priceless reredos and the banners decorating a building that needs no adorning.—Yours, etc.,

E. G. INGHAM. Titirangi, Auckland. February 20, 1984.

[The Bishop of Christchurch, the Rt Rev. M. J. Goodall, replies: “I am grateful to E. G. Ingham for the comments on our lovely Cathedral and realise that personal preferences vary greatly. The dosal curtain in the centre of the reredos was placed there some two and a half years ago and has evoked various reactions. The Chapter and I personally, as Dean, have appreciated the colour it has brought to the east end of the Cathedral and have decided that it should be in that place during the year, except for Lent and Advent. The banners were a special addition for the period of our mission during last year and were greatly appreciated by those who shared in Bishop Taylor’s visit on that occasion. At my request they were left in place during the services of consecration and installation. They too will be removed as we come to Lent. I hope that the Dean and Chapter will continue to explore ways of expressing the faith and joy and hope of which the Cathedral building speaks so eloquently by using modern works of art. It is recognised that not all such endeavours will appeal to each individual and so a policy of variation has been used by the Cathedral authorities to provide for all tastes. Your correspondent may have noticed other major work in the Cathedral in the past two years, including the Scott Window in the north transept, the York Glass and display cabinet and the changes in the Chapel of St Michael and St George. The Cathedral authorities are always glad of comments on such matters.”]