What to Expect

We recognise that it can be useful to know what to expect when attending Derby Cathedral for the first time.  Here are some guides to answer questions that you may have.

About the Eucharists

You will know that the service is about to begin as a procession of people will enter and the congregation will stand up. All the words of the service are printed in the service sheet so there are no other books to worry about. Most of the services have the same basic shape week by week which people get used to after coming a few times. We generally sit or kneel to pray – most people who are able, stand to sing.

Everyone is welcome to receive communion. If you don’t feel you want to receive communion that is absolutely fine. You are welcome to come forward at the appropriate time and the priest will offer you a blessing if you wish.

Sunday Services

There are three Sunday services in the Cathedral building at 08:30, 10:45 and 17:15. The morning services are both services of Holy Communion (also called ‘The Eucharist’) and are substantially the same, although the 08:30 service is shorter and there is no music. The 10:45 service is grander in scale with choral music sung by the Cathedral Choir and hymns sung by all.

Holy Communion during the week

During the week there are services of Holy Communion on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 13:00. This is a short service that usually takes about half an hour.

Evensong

The evening service, called ‘Evensong’ is also sung by the Cathedral Choir. Evensong is a peaceful service offering space to reflect on the day and time to be present to God.  Evensong is on Sunday at 17:15, and Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 17:30.