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Advent Antiphons are sung in churches in the days before Christmas.

They are a collection of songs calling God to come as teacher and deliverer, derived from a tapestry of scriptural titles and images that describe God’s saving work in Christ. It is not known when or by whom they were composed but were in use by the 8th century.

The antiphons will be sung during Evensong on 11th and 18th December at 4pm, and on 9th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 21st December at 5:45pm.

If you would like to talk or pray with one of our chaplains during your visit please do ask one of the guides (wearing red) if a chaplain is available.

Prayer Installations

From 27th November to 6th January, Sheffield Cathedral is also hosting five prayer installations inspired by the antiphons. You are invited to use these spaces for personal prayer and meditation. They can be visited whenever the Cathedral is open.

On Saturday 10th December you are also invited to an ‘after hours’ opening from 4pm to 9pm for an opportunity to visit the prayer installations and explore this ancient sacred space by candlelight. 1554 Coffee Shop will be serving mulled wine and mince pies, coffee and cake, throughout the evening.

The prayer installations can be found around the Cathedral in The West End, Parker Transept, Old St George’s Chapel, The Chapel of the Holy Spirit and The Crypt.