... the Chapel for Justice, Peace and Creation, in Exeter Cathedral

Programme of Services: 2011 - 2012

Service are held on Saturdays from 12 noon - 12.30 pm.

Date	Organisation and Contact
24th September	Devon Churches Green Action
29th October	Salvation Army
26th November	Positive Action South West
1st December	World AIDS day
10th December	Exeter Community Initiatives
January 2012	Devon Global Centre
February	United Nations Association
March
April	Salvation Army
May	Cyprus and Gulf Liason Group
June	Exeter Quakers (Society of Friends)
July

The Exeter Crown of Thorns

In the Christian tradition the Crown of Thorns was placed on the head of Jesus Christ prior to his crucifixion as a parody of kingship.

In medieval times the Crown of Thorns served as a reminder of the humility required of the church if it was to demonstrate the love of God.

The twisted nature of the painful thorns recalls both injustice and a warped use of a life-giving plant.

The pointed barbs offer us a sense of the horrors of war and the incarceration of human beings.

The weight of the structure reminds us of the heaviness of oppression and those who struggle for liberation from cruelty or domination.

However, the break in the crown also leaves room for hope and possibility beyond the pain and pressure.

This Chapel stands in contrast to the symbolism of the thorns and seeks to counter violence, repression and environmental destruction - instead seeking to promote justice, peace and the wholeness of creation.

The Exeter Crown of Thorns was inspired by Ben Grimsey (10 years member of former Board for Christian Care) and made in burnished steel by local sculptor Matt Dingle. It was commissioned by the Council for Church and Society for the JPC Chapel at Exeter Cathedral for Easter 2010.