FRIENDS OF ST COLUMB'S CATHEDRAL

"The Friends of St Columb’s Cathedral" (commonly called "The Friends") was formed in 1985 with the following aims:

(1) To promote a greater interest in the Cathedral, its traditions of worship and its history.

(2) To support the Dean, Chapter and Select Vestry in maintaining the fabric and furnishings of the Cathedral. The Friends are also asked to support the work and witness of the Cathedral by their prayers.

Membership of The Friends is open to both individuals and corporate bodies who are interested in furthering the aims of the organisation. The membership fee is (currently) £10 per annum or life membership may be purchased for a sum (currently) of £100. Anyone interested in finding out more about The Friends should leave their contact details on the website and someone will get in touch with you.

The Friends have a Spring Lecture, usually held in the month of March, and the AGM combined with a Lecture and Bring and Buy Sale in the autumn, generally in October. These Lectures tend to be of historical interest, ranging from topics such as "The Plantation of Ulster" to "The Life and Times of the Earl Bishop Frederick Hervey" or "The Columban Centenary Voyage from Derry to Iona". The Cathedral itself of course has such a wealth of history that some of the speakers chose an aspect of it for their talk.

The Friends is run by a Committee with the Dean of Derry as Chairman. This Committee meets as often as required, but not less than twice yearly to plan the Lectures and also to put forward ideas for fund-raising. Over the years the Friends have been involved in many ventures ranging from the production of Christmas Cards to support for the publication of a book on the life of Mrs Cecil Frances Alexander, the famous hymn writer and wife of a Bishop of Derry, entitled "A Green Hill Far Away". A major undertaking was providing a roof for the Boys’ Vestry which is contained within the body of the Cathedral and is now used as an office and staff-room.

The Friends are always seeking ways, no matter how small, to support the Cathedral and its functions and would be happy to hear from you if you want any further information.