The Cathedral 1927 onwards

The growth in the population of the Midlands led to the formation of the new Diocese of Derby in 1927 and All Saints became the Cathedral of the Diocese. It was hallowed as the Cathedral on 28 October and next day the first Bishop, Edmund Pierce, was enthroned.

Plans were very soon made for the extension of All Saints to equip it for its ministry as a Cathedral, but war and post-war austerity meant that it was not until 1966 that work began, to a design by Sebastian Comper, on an eastern extension, as well as the introduction of the Ceri Richards All Saints and All Souls windows, a striking new colour scheme and a new sense of light and openness.

As a Cathedral and the Bishop’s Church, All Saints has a ministry well beyond its ancient parish boundaries, to the city, the churches of the Diocese, the towns and villages of Derbyshire and to visitors of many kinds. Although a Church of England Cathedral, it tries to be a holy place and a sign of unity for Christians of many tradition and a meeting place of faiths.

Christian worship is offered in the Cathedral every morning and evening by the ‘foundation’ – clergy, choir and vergers – and all are welcome to join them. On a Sunday morning it has a large congregation both of local people and visitors. Throughout the week there is an emphasis on mission – through education (including work with schools), hospitality and welcome to the poor.

The Cathedral is governed by the Dean and Chapter (four canons and four lay people). The Guild of King Edmund is a body of volunteers who help staff the Cathedral’s ministry. The Friends of the Cathedral are a company of those who care for the Cathedral Building and its mission and support it financially. Both groups welcome new members.

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