Canterbury Cathedral defends silent discos against ‘rave in nave’ criticism

Canterbury Cathedral has defended its decision to host a silent disco, saying it will not be a “rave in the nave” but “respectful” of the historic site.

The sell-out events for Thursday and Friday will see clubbers take to the nave in a ’90s-themed disco, playing the likes of the Vengaboys, Britney Spears, Spice Girls and Eminem.

But the parties have come under fire from petitioners who say silent discos belong in nightclubs, not “the most important Christian church in England”.

A petition to stop the discos has reached more than 1,600 signatures.

Petition organiser Cajetan Skowronski said: “It will not bring young people closer to Christ, rather it will send the message that Christ and his church, and all the truth, beauty and goodness it has to offer, are unimportant – that entertainment deserves our attention more than God, that Christians do not take their faith or their holy places seriously.”

The Dean of Canterbury, The Very Reverend Dr David Monteith, said “We’re looking forward to welcoming all those who will be coming to this week’s retro silent disco in the Nave.

"Cathedrals have always been part of community life in a way much wider than their prime focus as centres of Christian worship and mission, and whether people choose to come to Canterbury Cathedral primarily as worshippers, sightseers, or attendees at our events – which include classical concerts, light and sound installations, and craft workshops – it’s always joyous to see them discover this incredible place anew and on their own terms.

“Whilst dancing of all different kinds has happened in the Cathedral over the centuries - and The Bible memorably celebrates the gift of dancing with King David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6) – there are many different views on the secular and the sacred.

"Our 90s-themed silent disco will be appropriate to and respectful of the Cathedral – it is categorically not a ‘rave in the nave’ - but I appreciate that some will never agree that dancing and pop music have a place within cathedrals.

“I recently met and prayed with Mr Skowronski who opposes the silent disco and has called for it to be cancelled.

"Whilst we disagree in part about the nature of sacred space, we share the same faith.”

Silent discos at other cathedrals are taking place later this month, including in Guildford, Ely and Chelmsford.

Canterbury Cathedral stages a number of public events including classical concerts, light shows and Lego masterclasses.

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