To show support, Durham Cathedral's Galilee Chapel will become a centre point for victims and survivors of abuse during the week. A rope running through the cathedral’s Chapel will be covered in hundreds of ribbons tied by visitors, alongside a display of poems and music written by those whose lives have been affected by abuse.
The poems were created through a project called If I Told You, What Would You Do?, jointly funded by the Diocese of Newcastle and Safe Spaces. The project engaged survivors of faith-based abuse in a creative way to foster compassion with those who need to see and hear them, and build the confidence of those who are in a position to respond well to them. The outcome of the project was a suite of seven reflections developed by survivors, complemented by poems, original artwork, music, and short films.
The Revd Canon Michael Hampel, Vice-Dean and Precentor and Interim Safeguarding Lead, says
"Durham Cathedral has long been a place of sanctuary for people in need and today we hope and pray that children and adults at risk feel safe here – with safeguarding firmly embedded in our culture. Safeguarding Week provides us with an important focus for all that makes people feel safe and secure at Durham Cathedral."
The cathedral’s services of worship during the week will include prayers for the vulnerable and victims of abuse. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility at Durham Cathedral. Clergy, staff and volunteers undertake mandatory safeguarding training from the Church of England, which embeds vigilance and empathy within the culture of the cathedral community.
The Revd Canon Michael Hampel continues,
"On Safeguarding Sunday, on 16 November, we will offer special prayers at the Sung Eucharist at 10.00 a.m. just before launching Pillars of Hope from Monday 17 November for the rest of Safeguarding Week."
The opportunity for visitors to add their ribbon to the rope and listen to poems and music in the Galilee Chapel continues until Sunday 23 November.
Lisa Wardlaw, Cathedral Safeguarding Officer says,
