World Peace Flame Shines at Bangor Cathedral
The World Peace Flame is proud to be part of a historic milestone at Bangor Cathedral, which is celebrating its 1,500th anniversary in 2025.
Founded by St Deiniol in 525 AD, the cathedral is the oldest in Wales. To mark this remarkable anniversary, the World Peace Flame was brought to the cathedral on 16 December 2024, helping to launch a year of celebration and reflection with a message of peace and hope for the city.
A Symbol at the Heart of a Historic Year
Throughout the anniversary year, the Flame has been placed on the main altar during key services, including the Christmas Eve midnight mass. Its presence has added a powerful and reflective focus, connecting centuries of history with a shared commitment to peace today.
The wider programme of celebrations includes special events such as a new icon of St Deiniol, performances from the Cathedral Choir, and a national broadcast of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship. The cathedral has also been honoured with the Freedom of the City of Bangor, recognising its deep historical and cultural significance.
Inspiring Young People Through Peace Education
As part of this special year, Bangor Cathedral is working with our Peace In Your Hands programme – an award-winning initiative that encourages young people to explore peace, empathy, and resilience.
Local children are taking part in activities and discussions, helping them reflect on what peace means in their own lives and how they can make a positive difference in the world around them.
A Shared Commitment to Peace
The anniversary celebrations also bring the wider community together, including events such as a St Deiniol’s Day procession involving local pupils later in the year.
The presence of the World Peace Flame highlights how this historic celebration is not only about looking back, but also about inspiring the future.
As one cathedral spokesperson shared:
“This flame is not just a symbol – it’s a call to action.”We’re proud to work with local schools and families to explore what peace means today, especially for the younger generation.”
We are honoured to see the World Peace Flame shining at Bangor Cathedral and to support the important work being done to inspire peace across generations.