Wool gathering of a northern dean

Well, almost. I'm on the last lap. Almost everything is done for the last time. Files are closed, documents archived, thousands of ema...

This is the day we have not wanted to arrive, for it has marked the end of Durham Cathedral Choir's year. At the end of evensong, we sai...

In the Deanery garden we have a bellwether to signal the seasons as they turn: a glorious beech hedge. In autumn it lingers green when the t...

In every cathedral and parish church, the year ends on a high note. Or rather, begins - for Advent marks the start of another liturgical cyc...

I left theological college more than 40 years ago. In my leaving interview, my tutor said: ‘Michael, it’s possible that one day you might be...

Books and travel literature are a must for every voyager. At least, I assume this: how much more can be gleaned from visiting new places whe...

One of the enjoyable aspects of Cathedral life is getting to know the choristers. They are not only hugely talented but also a wonderful fou...

I walked into the town centre today. The streets of Durham were thronged with young people enjoying an afternoon out in the balmy October ai...

Last week Durham’s Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition opened to the public. I have already visited four times. It would need a twice-daily visit...

Today the Miners’ Gala has taken place in Durham.   The ‘Big Meeting’ has been an annual fixture in the Durham calendar since 1871.   O...

In a dean’s life there are occasional diversions from the solemn business of looking after a Cathedral.   This weekend the Olympic Torc...