The Millennium Appeal

The Cathedral now urgently needs restoration and modernisation. The roof leaks, provision for visitors with disabilities is inadequate, the organ needs rebuilding, and the Amigo Hall remains in virtually its original state from nearly 70 years ago.

We need £6 million for this work so that the future of St George's Cathedral is assured. The Millennium Appeal was launched in order to provide better facilities for visitors - especially those with disabilities; to develop the Archbishop Amigo Hall into a much more welcoming centre for diocesan events, meetings and gatherings; and to provide a much needed facility for the local community.

Just as importantly, the important architectural heritage of the Cathedral itself needs to be preserved for future generations.

The Amigo Hall simply does not meet modern needs, nor does it reflect well on the great Catholic tradition of hospitality and welcome. And for large events, it is so inadequate that we have to hire in Portaloos and erect marquees in the car park.

When Provost Doyle needed funds to help those escaping from famine in Ireland, those afflicted by cholera in London, and the many people excluded from the society of his day, the Catholic community was swift to respond. Now we face many new challenges: homelessness, asylum seekers, to name just two. St George's now, as always, provides a place where people can find a temporary rest from the noise and stresses of the world, and where people are helped and valued for who they are.

Canon James Cronin, Dean