The bold vision

A bold vision lies behind this ambitious plan, and the staggering generosity and hard work that has made it a reality. The Hostry, and its sister building the new Refectory, are the Cathedral's response to the needs of the new millennium. Through these buildings we will ensure that the Benedictine principles which guided the Cathedral's monastic founders can reach out to, and connect with, people in today's rapidly changing world.

The new Hostry not only stands on the footprint of the original monastic Hostry but will also replicate the role of that Hostry - a building where pilgrims and guests of Norwich Cathedral are received in a Benedictine spirit of hospitality. It will do so in a way appropriate to the 21st century, as an open building where visitors can be introduced to the life, work and beauty of the Cathedral itself, where students can learn about its history, purpose and value, and where people from the whole community can come together socially or to engage with issues of common concern.

This spirit of contemporary renewal underpins the Cathedral's desire to welcome and connect with all who come to the building. It will ensure inclusiveness, and encourage all-age learning and engagement. We have encapsulated the role of the new Hostry in a mission statement:

'A meeting place where people of all ages and backgrounds are made welcome and where learning and discovery enhance a visit to Norwich Cathedral'.

The Benedictine principles behind the vision 

Underpinning and inspiring all that we do here at Norwich Cathedral are the three Benedictine principles of worship, hospitality and learning. This has become even more evident now the new Hostry is complete as the three principles are reflected in the layout of the Cathedral buildings.  In the 21st century, just as in the time of the priory, the cloister  lies at the heart of the complex and connects the three main buildings – Cathedral, Hostry and Refectory - one dedicated to each of those three Benedictine principles.

The importance we place on those principles is also reflected in our appointment last year of a full time Canon Librarian, The Revd Dr Peter Doll.  We now have three Residentiary Canons, one taking responsibility for each of those three principles:

• Precentor – responsible for everything to do with the daily offering of worship, including Cathedral music, and arranging the many special services requested by city and county.
• Canon Pastor – responsible for pastoral care and hospitality of staff, volunteers, worshippers and visitors
• Canon Librarian – responsible for learning, in its widest sense, to include exhibitions, lectures, our work with schools, families, the community and the Library.