Tom has taken on the honorary role to help promote the cathedral’s archives and collections and to celebrate the legacy of the Venerable Bede, the seventh-century scholar and saint buried at Durham Cathedral.
Tom later spoke to over 700 people on the topic of ‘Cuthbert, Bede and the Renewal of Culture’, in an event run by the Durham Cathedral Institute and hosted by the Dean of Durham, the Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming.
As part of his visit Tom met with Alison Cullingford, Head of Library and Collections at Durham Cathedral, and toured some of the spaces where the Cathedral’s collections are preserved for present and future generations.
Quote from Tom Holland, Bede Librarian at Durham Cathedral
It is a great privilege for me to become the first Bede Librarian of Durham Cathedral. The inauguration service was one I will never forget. I have loved reconnecting with this special place and its story and sharing what makes Bede and Cuthbert truly inspirational saints.'
Tom Holland
Bede Librarian at Durham Cathedral
Philip Plyming added,
‘We were thrilled to have Tom with us and are excited at the contribution he will make as our new Bede Librarian. Bede continues to inspire us here in Durham, and has much to say to this generation seeking meaning, hope and truth. His witness to Jesus Christ is one that speaks down the ages, and it was wonderful to hear Tom communicate so brilliantly on Cuthbert and Bede and their significance today.’
During the service of Choral Evensong the sermon was given by Professor Alec Ryrie, Professor of the History of Christianity at Durham University, and music was offered by the Chapel Choir of the College of St Hild and St Bede, Durham University.
The inauguration of Tom Holland in photos
