Living the Lantern with Ruth

Published March 2025

In the Middle Ages, Newcastle Cathedral’s Lantern Tower guided ships along the River Tyne. Today, the Cathedral Lantern Project continues this legacy, serving as a beacon of hope for those navigating challenging circumstances – an ethos that shines through every aspect of Cathedral life.

This article was originally published in the Spring 2025 edition of Link, the quarterly printed magazine for the Diocese of Newcastle.

The Revd Canon Ruth Hulse, Newcastle Cathedral’s Canon for Worship & Congregational Life, writes…

I wasn’t long in post when I received a WhatsApp message from a clergy friend who had just moved to Folkestone, Kent. He had been getting to know his new church, and as he delved into the long-forgotten treasures of the church vestry, he found a document with Newcastle’s iconic Lantern Tower on the front and the title, ‘Verger’s Notes: Newcastle Cathedral.’

This perfectly sums up my first six months at the Cathedral. Newcastle Cathedral finds its way everywhere, and people from everywhere find their way here! I’m no longer surprised by the sheer number or diversity of those who discover a place within its walls; I simply feel blessed to be part of what they find when they do.

Some come for the beautiful music that speaks to the soul. Some come for the social justice work carried out under the banner of the Cathedral Lantern Project. Some come because they have found a place of sanctuary. Some come to laugh, dance and sing. Some come because it is their spiritual home. And many come for various other reasons.

Much like other churches across the Diocese, we are looking for ways to grow the congregation — in number, faith, age range and diversity. We, too, are exploring how we might be part of seeking, sharing and sending, encountering both challenges and moments of pure joy — like our recent confirmation service, where 26 members of the Cathedral community affirmed their faith and commitment to following Jesus.

Above: The 26 members of the Cathedral community that were confirmed and baptised in February 2025.

I know I speak not only for myself but for everyone at the Cathedral when I say that we pray Newcastle Cathedral remains a precious place for all across the Diocese, no matter who you are or where you come from. Newcastle Cathedral is your Cathedral, and we look forward to welcoming you, supporting you, being supported by you, and travelling onwards together.