Sir, Mary Ann Sieghart (T2, December 3) highlights the unwelcoming and indignant attitude of stewards at Salisbury Cathedral’s Advent carol service. Three years ago, we took a group of parishioners to the service and were treated in a similar officious and threatening manner. The then Dean apologised and assured us that the matter would be dealt with.

In its introduction to visitors the cathedral hopes that the welcome it gives reflects the message of its mission statement, that “Salisbury Cathedral exists for the glory of God and as a sign of his kingdom in the world”.

The season of Advent calls us to examine our behaviour in preparation for the coming of Christ’s light revealing truth and justice. It seems that the cathedral in its dark approach, and the Church at large, needs to use this season to learn how to truly give an inclusive and pastoral welcome of light to all people.

The Bishop of Salisbury, in his new book God’s Pattern (The Register, November 29), rightly raises the competence of the way that worship and its meaning in the Church is prepared and practised. Perhaps he should start by first reading it to the mother church of his diocese.

Yours faithfully,
JEREMY DUSSEK,
The Vicarage,
Hillson Drive,
Fareham, Hampshire PO15 6PF.
December 3.

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