Derby Cathedral Digital Marketing Officer Isabel Eaton writes…
This past Christmas, the Derby Cathedral team had the joy of launching something truly special: our very first Christmas Around the World service. It was an incredible success, drawing an enthusiastic congregation and showing just how much people value celebrating the richness of global traditions together.
Held on Sunday 21 December 2025, the Cathedral was filled with festive cheer as communities from across Derby and beyond gathered together. The service featured carols, readings, and prayers from a variety of countries – including Hong Kong, Greece and Ukraine – reflecting the diversity of our city and the worldwide Church. Each contribution offered a glimpse into how Christmas is celebrated in different cultures, yet all pointed to the same message of hope, peace, and unity.
The music was a highlight, with uplifting African rhythms alongside heart-warming European hymns, creating a beautiful mix of sound that lifted hearts and voices in praise. It was wonderful to see the congregation embracing both familiar favourites and new melodies.
Rev Canon Michael Futers, Acting Precentor at Derby Cathedral, said: ‘The Christmas Around the World service was a profound expression of unity within diversity. By incorporating carols, prayers, and readings from a range of cultural traditions, we sought to reflect the global nature of the Christian faith.
The response from the congregation was overwhelmingly positive, and it affirmed the Cathedral’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and shared worship.”
After the service, we enjoyed festive refreshments and the chance to connect with one another, building friendships across cultures and denominations. For me, it was a powerful reminder of the Cathedral’s role as a spiritual home for all – a place where diversity is not just welcomed but celebrated. Given the popularity of this first event, we can’t wait to do it again next year – and we’re excited to see it grow even bigger and better!
Sharing the traditions of Armenia
From the Armenian Orthodox Church UK weekly newsletter:
“As part of the service, Susanna Petrosyan delivered a speech presenting the faith and Christmas traditions of Armenia, sharing the historical and spiritual significance of Armenian Christmas. The Lord’s Prayer was also recited in Armenian, offering the congregation a meaningful experience of worship in another language.
This gathering provided a unique opportunity for people to share their traditions, learn from one another, and experience how Christmas is celebrated around the world. The service concluded with a blessing from the Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton.”
