Norwich Cathedral needed a leaflet encouraging local business people to support the construction of its new Hostry building.
About Pillars of the Community
Pillars of the Community is an opportunity for business people to support the creation of Norwich Cathedral’s new Hostry, which will reaffirm the Cathedral’s central role in our lives, our city and our community.
Working together to make a difference
The relationship between business and society is a two-way street. Enterprise is an essential part of the life of our local community, providing so many things that people value. In turn, it is supported by the community where it has its roots.
That’s why we’re asking business people to offer their active support and involvement to the Cathedral as it seeks to redefine and strengthen its role through a range of new initiatives, underpinned by the construction of the magnificent new Hostry building. We want to build new, stronger relationships between church and business, releasing new benefits to the community of which we are all part.
A tradition of change
Norwich Cathedral has been the heart and soul of our city and county for over nine hundred years, reaching out into the community to provide much-needed comfort, support and guidance.
Tradition, of course, is a big part of who we are. But our choices in the present and our hopes for the future are far
more important.
Throughout its long life, Norwich Cathedral has evolved in response to the needs of those who congregate here. Benedictine principles of worship, welcome and learning were the foundation of the Cathedral’s purpose from the earliest days, and continue to shape its work today, even though society has changed beyond recognition.
The Hostry
Now, to sustain its central role in
the community, Norwich Cathedral has to make one of the biggest changes of its history. The new Hostry will provide the capacity for us to reach out to more people
than ever before, in more ways
than ever before.
It will secure the Cathedral’s roles as a community hub, a centre of educational excellence, a wonderful visitor destination and a uniquely atmospheric venue for conferences and business gatherings. It will build the foundation for the next nine hundred years of the Cathedral’s life.
A new chapter is beginning... and we’d like you to be involved.
Who are Pillars?
Pillars are business people who have made a significant commitment to supporting the Cathedral financially at this crucial time in its history.
They are special people who hold particular values and principles.
Shared values
When values are shared, we can work together to bring more benefits to more people. There are many shared values that might prompt you to get involved in Pillars.
You might believe in a stronger community, and appreciate the role that the Hostry will play in making that a reality. Or you might endorse the hospitality and generosity of the Benedictine tradition.
As a parent, you might wish to contribute to the development of tomorrow’s adults. Or perhaps you can see the unique value of the Hostry as a meeting venue.
You might wish to express Christian values through your actions, or you might simply believe in the capacity for compassion and service within all of us.
Be assured that we welcome your involvement whatever your beliefs.
Breaking down barriers
Pillars of the Community is about breaking down barriers. When we use words like ‘student’, ‘business person’ or ‘clergy’ to define ourselves, we can create a sense of separation. But in reality, there are no walls between us: we are all part of the same community. We all need to learn, we all need friends and family, we all need support and guidance and we all need meaning in our lives.
Pillars know that genuine giving is not about throwing money at unseen, far-off people to ease our own guilt. It’s about helping those we see around us.
Positive prosperity
Pillars want positive prosperity. They are concerned about the society in which their businesses operate, knowing that prosperity and social cohesion go hand in hand.
This is what we mean when we talk about enlightened self-interest: giving so that we – and others – will receive in the fullness of time. By helping others, we ultimately help ourselves as well.
Building for the future
In a rapidly developing world, we look to enterprise for the skills and mindsets to take us forward. Pillars want to serve their community in the most effective, far-sighted way they can.
Pillars is about something more than ‘social responsibility’. It’s about becoming an activist for change. Rather than simply doing no harm in the community, Pillars actively seek to strengthen it and build the foundation of a better future.
One Cathedral, many faces
Norwich Cathedral is so much more than a historic monument. It has meaning for many types of people. Above all, it is a living place where everyone is welcome.
A place to visit
Over half a million people a year come to see the magnificent Cathedral building and experience its unique atmosphere.
A place to learn
The Cathedral is a vital centre for learning.
Our education team provides opportunities for over 15,000 children – and adults – to come here every year and learn more about a range of subjects as well as the Cathedral itself.
The Cathedral has so much to offer
to young people. In return, they fill
the place with life, reminding us that
the Cathedral is for everybody:
those who use it today and those
who will inherit it tomorrow.
A place to think
Norwich Cathedral is a space where people come to experience a dimension beyond material things and daily life. It is a place to take time to meditate on our place in the world – whatever our beliefs.
A place to listen
The Cathedral is a place for music and song, playing host to unforgettable concerts and recitals in a unique setting.
A place to meet
The Refectory provides a wonderful place for visitors to pause for refreshment in a modern space entirely in keeping with the ancient fabric of the main Cathedral.
