Cathedral Notices - 19 April 2026
A reflection from Canon Harriet
This Sunday’s Gospel is from Luke’s Gospel – the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, who begin their journey from Jerusalem to Emmaus in sadness, and finish it breaking bread with Jesus, and proclaiming with great joy: The Lord has risen!
On the road, the two disciples are discussing what has just taken place in Jerusalem: the crucifixion of Jesus. Their hearts and minds are unsurprisingly downcast, as they try to take in the truth that the one they had set all their hopes on, the one whom they thought would redeem them from persecution and oppression, had been killed. They were having to reassess all that they had come to believe now that Jesus had died.
And then, this curious stranger comes alongside them on the road and walks with them. He seems utterly unaware of what’s been going on, and they explain to him that it’s all about Jesus of Nazareth, and how he had been handed over to be crucified. And they go on to tell the stranger about a rumour that the women of their group of followers went to the tomb and were told by angels that Jesus was alive!
How foolish you are! How slow of heart! The stranger berates them. And then goes on to remind them of what the scriptures foretell. That the Messiah must suffer before he enters into glory.
There is a glimmer of hope for them now. Perhaps there is still some good that can come out of this terrible suffering, out of this death and disaster. They listen intently, enrapt now by what the stranger is saying.
All this time, of course, Jesus is with them: walking alongside them, teaching them, nurturing the little spark of faith and hope they have. Until the moment when he breaks bread with them in Emmaus, and they “see”, finally, that it is the Lord.
This is a wonderful story to spend some time with, in reflection this week. You can read the whole passage in Luke 24:13-35. And as you read, you might like to do so slowly, imaging yourself in the scene. Walk along the road with the friends, share your hopes and your fears with the Lord as he comes alongside you, and receive the assurance of his grace, as he is present with you in your prayer, and in the bread.
The Reverend Canon Harriet Neale-Stevens
Canon Chancellor and Vice Dean
Community News
Top-up the Tower! A One-Year Opportunity to Protect Our Belfry
Our cathedral’s historic belfry now needs urgent repair and redecoration, and 2026 offers a rare and time-limited opportunity to complete the work affordably.
The belfry is constructed from timber, which means it requires specialist maintenance and repair roughly every five to ten years to protect it from weather damage and decay. This essential cycle of care helps preserve the structure and ensures the bells can continue to sound safely above the city.
Seafood on the Green 2026
Join us for a sit down al fresco lunch for seafood lovers. Taking place on the green at Portsmouth Cathedral, join us for and enjoy freshly prepared, locally sourced dishes, including seafood paella & platters, pâtés and delicious desserts!
Out and about
On 21 April, Dean Anthony will be saying prayers at the special meeting of the City Council which marks both the centenary of the city and what would have been the late Queen's 100th birthday.
Bell ringing at the Cathedral…
The Guild of Clerical Ringers
We were pleased to be joined by the Guild of Clerical Ringers yesterday (Thursday 16 April), who rang ahead of our service of Choral Evensong.
Portsmouth 100 - Quarter Peel
Our bell ringers will be ringing a quarter peel this Tuesday as part of the Portsmouth 100 celebrations; they will also be ringing in celebration after this Sunday’s 11am service.
Good Faith: Why England needs its Church
Canon Angela Tilby will introduce her new book (published last week) with a short talk over coffee, followed by an opportunity for Q&A, following the 11am Eucharist on Sunday 26 April. All welcome.
Christian Aid Week: 10–16 May
Christian Aid is an international charity founded by churches in Britain and Ireland over 80 years ago. They work with partners and communities in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean to support people experiencing poverty and affected by humanitarian emergencies and climate change.
Learn more and donate →
Sunday Refreshments
Do you enjoy a tea or coffee and chat after Sunday's 11am Eucharist? If so, could you help provide this much-appreciated service no more than once a month? If so, please speak to Sue Ward or any of our volunteers, or get in touch with Rachael, our volunteer coordinator. We would be very happy to hear from you!
Cathedral Clean – Future Dates
Following the success of the Cathedral Spring Clean event to refresh our Cathedral before Easter, we have added some more dates to help us maintain a bright welcome for all. Could you help to keep our cathedral looking beautiful?
Revision of Electoral Roll
The Electoral Roll is being revised until 26 April. A copy is on display in the Cathedral or through the Cathedral Offices. Forms will also be available for new or returning members of the congregation to join/rejoin the Electoral Roll. This year's APCM and Parish Meeting will take place on Thursday, 14 May, at 6:30pm and will include the election of Deanery Synod representatives. If you would like to know more about this role, please contact Canon Harriet.
Work with us - Head of Fundraising
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head of Fundraising to lead and further develop our fundraising activity at a pivotal time for the Cathedral. This is a strategic and hands ‑on role, working closely with the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Management Team to secure the resources needed to sustain and grow the Cathedral’s mission, ministry and buildings.
Prayers & Intercessions
We pray for: Elizabeth Pettigrew and Henry and Sebastian Hilliard to be baptised on Sunday. Also for Lotti, who will be baptised this weekend (in Budapest).
We remember those for whom prayer has been asked by members of the Cathedral Community: Gerald, Simon, David, Ann, Gordon, Marion, Miles, Lila, Andrew, Tom, Jean, Wynne, Jason, Matthew, Paul, Jennifer, Lotti, Pauline, and Keanu.
We continue to pray for the long-term sick, including: Mary, Phil, Nigel, Jill, Abbie, Martin, Colin, Richard, Hazel, Spencer, Karen, Carole, Davina, Mathai, Philip, Graeme, Alistair, Ralph, and Chris.
We remember those who have died recently, including: Marie Leafhead (Cathedral Requiem on Tuesday 28th April 12.30pm), Marjorie Hayward-Smith, David Peter Jones, Fred Davies, Clive Clifton RIP