A YORK landmark is affirming its commitment to the climate emergency by using solar power to brighten its Christmas celebrations.

York Minster has announced its plans to start the advent procession by lighting up the building’s west front using an eco-friendly power source – reaffirming its commitment to the people of the future.

The Minster’s new external LED lighting scheme, alongside 184 new solar panels, is currently being installed on the south quire roof.

 

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It will reduce the Minster's energy consumption by around a third and limit light pollution.

The Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “Every year, our Advent Procession starts in darkness with just a single candle illuminating the building. 

“This year, the light will spread out into the city as the west front lights blaze to life, turning the Minster into a beacon shining over the historic City of York.’

The switch-on of the new lighting scheme has been timed to coincide with Advent Sunday in a season the Church of England has designated ‘Calm and Bright’. 

Inside the Minster, worshippers will also be in darkness until a single candle is lit and the flame shared around everyone present until the building is illuminated by hundreds of candles from those gathered within.

There will be more lights on display inside the building for Advent with the launch of the Minster’s Christmas Tree Festival which opens with a light switch-on at ‘Minster Mash-Up’, York Minster’s special service for children and families, on Saturday 30 November at 10am.

The Dean added: ‘This year, the light will spread further still as the Minster’s Nave, Chapter House, Lady Chapel and north quire aisle will be illuminated by over seventy Christmas trees, each decorated and lit by charities, schools and organisations from across the city.

Entry to the Minster is free for all who wish to light a candle and say a prayer. You can find the Minster’s Advent and Christmas programme in full here yorkminster.org. 

York Minster's Advent Procession will take place on Sunday 1 December 5.30pm and can be watched live on the Minster's YouTube channel.