Light of Hope at Salisbury Cathedral

On All Saints and All Souls Days an installation called Light of Hope by Sculptor and light artist Peter Walker lit up the sky outside cathedrals and churches nationwide including Salisbury Cathedral.

It was originally only meant as a three-day event, but in response to the latest lockdown, Salisbury Cathedral has decided to extend the Light of Hope installation until Wednesday 2 December.

The display, with its beams rising from the cathedral roof to form a cross of light meeting at the top of the spire, shines out as a beacon of hope in difficult times.

Peter Walker said: “Light of Hope is an opportunity for us to collectively remember those who have helped and given so much during the past year, as well as take time to remember those we have lost and think about those near to us”

Peter first produced the digital art installation for Lichfield Cathedral in 2018 and 2019. He wanted other churches and cathedrals to join in and become beacons, offering a collective moment for people to be part of, but from a safe distance.

All Saints Day on November 1 traditionally celebrates saints throughout the ages who have been a beacon of light to others. All Souls Day on November 2 is a time to remember and give thanks for those who have died and to remember their lives with love.