Students from Bethlehem Icon School to create new work at Lichfield Cathedral

The design for the new icon at Lichfield Cathedral

A studio to create a new religious icon is being set up at Lichfield Cathedral this summer.

Six students from the Bethlehem Icon School will spend two months working to create a 12ft by 8ft crucifix of Jesus to hang above the nave.

The icon has been commissioned to remind people of the suffering of war as part of a series of events to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.

The Dean of Lichfield, the Very Revd Adrian Dorber, said: “Icons are said to be gateways through which heaven meets earth, and I am proud to support this ancient art form to create an image of Christ who fills all things with new life.

“I want this new icon to be a message, a message of hope and creativity, a message that says here at Lichfield Cathedral you can explore deep things in life, you are welcome, irrespective of your background or beliefs.”

Visitors are able to watch the icon students at work until September in the East End of the cathedral.

The cross will be dedicated at a service on Holy Cross Day on September 14.

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