Norwich Cathedral Hosts Special Service for Black History Month
Norwich Cathedral is once again opening its doors for a special service celebrating Black History Month on Sunday, October 26th at 5:30 PM. Following last year’s successful inaugural event—the cathedral’s first-ever service dedicated to commemorating Black history—this year’s celebration promises to be equally meaningful and inspirational. The service will feature musical contributions from the African Choir of Norfolk and the International Music Group, creating a vibrant atmosphere of cultural celebration within the historic walls of one of England’s most magnificent cathedrals.
The Reverend Canon Karlene Kerr, Rural Dean of Lynn and the Bishop of Norwich’s Lead on ‘From Lament to Action,’ will deliver the sermon for the occasion. “Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the ongoing contributions that Black people have made to our country,” she explained. “But this is a celebration that belongs to everyone, as it’s a celebration of all our history—British History.” Rev. Kerr emphasized the forward-looking nature of the commemoration, noting that “We look back in order with God’s help, to transform all our future.” Her invitation extends to everyone: “Come and celebrate at our Mother church, Norwich Cathedral, to hear uplifting singing from the Norfolk African Choir, African drumming from young people and join in with singing traditional hymns.”
Colin Tomlin, a Generous Giving Adviser for the Diocese of Norwich and member of the Racial Justice Action Group who helps organize these services, spoke passionately about the significance of this year’s celebration. “The Black History Month service is a vital moment to not only honour the legacy of those who came before us but to actively embody their spirit today,” he shared. This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” particularly resonates with Tomlin, who sees the service as an opportunity to “celebrate a history that has always shown us how to rise, with our faith an indispensable part of that process.” For Tomlin and many others, the service represents a moment to “draw strength from that foundation, move forward with collective pride, and recognise the inherent power residing in every member of our community.”
The Very Reverend Dr. Andrew Braddock, Dean of Norwich, expressed his enthusiasm for the cathedral hosting this important cultural and spiritual event. “I am delighted the Cathedral is hosting this service for Black History Month as we celebrate both our diversity and unity within the life of Christ’s church,” he stated. His words reflect the cathedral’s commitment to being a space where people from all backgrounds can come together to celebrate shared history and faith. Norwich Cathedral, with its nearly millennium-old heritage, stands as a fitting venue for an event that bridges the past and present while looking toward a more inclusive future.
The service comes at a time when conversations about racial justice and cultural heritage continue to evolve in British society. By dedicating space within such a historically significant religious institution to celebrate Black history, Norwich Cathedral acknowledges the integral role that Black Britons have played in shaping the nation’s cultural, spiritual, and social landscape. The inclusion of the African Choir of Norfolk and youth African drummers highlights the multigenerational aspect of this celebration—honoring traditions passed down through time while nurturing their expression in younger generations.
For those attending, the service offers more than just a commemorative event—it provides a communal experience where history, faith, and culture intersect in meaningful ways. The combination of traditional hymns alongside African choral music and drumming creates a tapestry of sound that represents the beautiful diversity within British Christian worship traditions. As Norwich Cathedral opens its doors for this special service, it invites people from all walks of life to participate in a celebration that recognizes both unique cultural contributions and shared humanity. In doing so, it embodies the essence of Black History Month itself: acknowledging the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring hope for an ever more inclusive future where, as Rev. Kerr noted, we can transform all our tomorrows together.
