The Christmas tree is lit by Chaplain from HMP Low Newton and Mothers' Union Representative

During the Lighting of the Tree and Blessing of the Crib service, Rebecca Feeney, Chaplain at HMP Low Newton, alongside Kathleen Wilson, President of the Diocese of Durham’s Mothers’ Union turned on the lights of the 17ft Norwegian Spruce Christmas tree, symbolising the hope of Christ for the world at Christmas time. The Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham, blessed the crib while the choir of Durham Cathedral sang a variety of festive carols.

Each year, Durham Cathedral invites special members of the community to light the tree and the tradition continued this year, with Rebecca and Kathleen invited to the service to mark and celebrate Christian ministry in prisons.

Christian ministry in prisons is an important part of the care of prisoners and aids their rehabilitation. As part of that ministry, Mothers’ Union in Durham has set up a branch in HMP Low Newton, which is unique in England and Wales, being the only branch in the world to meet in a prison, with a mix of members from the community and HMP Low Newton.

Revd Canon Michael Hampel, Vide-Dean and Precentor at Durham Cathedral said,

"We're delighted that Rebecca and Kathleen were able to light the Chritsmas tree this year. Statistics tell us that 45% of people lose contact with their families when they go to prison. However, research also shows that maintaining contact between people in prison and their families and friends is essential - not just for the well-being of prisoners, their resettlement and reduced rates of reoffending, but also for the development, well-being and social inclusion of children.

So much of the work done by Mothers' Union centres around supporting the continued connection between people in prison and their families, which is why we want to consinue to support and highlight Christian ministry in prisons."

The service began with a procession and the Cathedral Choir singing O Little Town of Bethlehem, followed by a prayer from the Dean of Durham and reading from the Revd Kathryn Tiernan, Cathedral Curate. A highlight from the service involved the Dean blessing the Crib, which was carved by a local Durham miner, with holy water, followed by the choir singing In the Bleak Midwinter.

Philip Plyming, Dean of Durham, gave an address highlighting the importance of Christian ministry in prison and its proclamation of the redeeming love of God, symbolised in the birth of Christ at Christmas. He said,

During the service, the choir spread festive cheer with carols including Hark the Angels Sing and The Shepherd's Pipe Carol. The service ended with prayers led by children from the cathedral community and Rebecca and Kathleen lighting the tree.

Next year the Mothers' Union celebrates its 150 year anniversary, serving all people in many difficult situations. The anniversary will be marked with a special celebration in St Paul's Cathedral, as well as a Special Festival Service in Durham Cathedral on 16 July 2026.

The Norwegian Spruce Christmas tree was generously donated by Wards Bros and a cherry picker to install the tree was kindly provided by Tyne and Wear Access.