Belfast Cathedral celebrates Racial Justice Sunday on February 8, with a service starting 3.30pm, entitled ‘Love your Neighbour.’

At the invitation of the Archbishop of Armagh and the Dean of Belfast, parishes in the Dioceses of Connor, Down and Dromore, and parishes across the Northern Dioceses of the Church of Ireland, are invited to send representatives to this Service of the Word for Racial Justice Sunday.

Dean Stephen Forde said: “The Cathedral will host a Service of the Word which draws together a range of different cultures, languages and global musical traditions to embody the glorious diversity of God’s Church.

“Given the multi-cultural diversity of the communities and people who now work and live among us in our cities and towns, many coming from a strong Christian background, this service gives us all opportunity to welcome and embrace those who look to us for our Christian welcome to them.”

The service will include singing, music and instruments from the world church, in addition to the participation of the Cathedral’s own choristers and choir.

The preacher is the Rev Eileen Cremin, who will speak from her own experience as a woman of colour ministering within the Church of Ireland. The service will also include prayers and readings led by people from a range of national and cultural origins. The service will conclude with an Act of Commitment to greater welcome and inclusion for those of diverse backgrounds within the life of all our church communities.

Dean Forde added: “Everyone is welcome to share this open service for Racial Justice Sunday at Belfast Cathedral, to come along and celebrate with us, to pray for justice in our society, and to take home ideas to help your parish celebrate Racial Justice Sunday in future years.

“While Racial Justice Sunday has been marked in Britain for some decades, it is new to the Church of Ireland. We are delighted to be working with the Archbishop of Armagh to promote this service across the dioceses and parishes of the Northern Province of the Church of Ireland, as we strive together to make our churches more welcoming for all God’s people.”

Free parking is available in the Cathedral’s carparks. The service will be televised by RTÉ.