Bishop of guildford to take part in daring abseiling down cathedral

The Bishop of Guildford will be putting his faith in God and also his safety equipment as part of a daring abseiling descent down Guildford's Cathedral. This 'leap of faith'

will see the Bishop alongside other brave individuals climb right to the top of the iconic Cathedral before abseiling back to the ground in an event which aims to fundraise for the

Cathedral's upkeep and the Bishop’s Communities Fund. It may be a strange sight for those in Guildford 's town centre on Saturday, June 14 as they witness the town's Bishop

strap his safety harness on an abseil down the Cathedral. Luckily for Bishop Andrew John Watson, he will not be the only one taking the 'leap of faith' that day, as he is set to be

accompanied by at least 20 other daring participants who will will climb the Cathedral’s spiral staircase, consisting of 249 steps, and briefly enjoy stunning panoramic views of Guildford

before experiencing the thrill of abseiling back to the ground. This daring descent is taking place as part of a fundraising event which aims to raise money for the Cathedral's vital

upkeep. According to Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral, it costs £3,500 every day to keep the Cathedral’s doors open, and support its operations, services, and community outreach.

"We are incredibly grateful to all who are participating in the Daring Descent to raise funds for the ongoing maintenance and mission of Guildford Cathedral," said Nicola Pratt,

Head of Development at Guildford Cathedral. "It costs £3,500 every day to keep our doors open, and these funds will ensure we can continue to serve our community, preserve our historic

building, and offer a beautiful space of welcome, worship and culture." While 20 participants have already signed up, including Cathedral Staff and their families, Choristers,

Congregation members and Diocese of Guildford staff, Guildford Cathedral is encouraging even more to join in on the 'leap of faith' and help raise "much-needed" funds for

the beloved Stag Hill landmark. According to the Cathedral, experience is "not essential" as instructions and full safety equipment will be provided by experts. The Bishop of

Guildford’s Communities Fund, for which Bishop Andrew is also raising money, provides grants to a variety of local organisations which provide essential support and outreach to some of the

most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in the Guildford Diocese. To sign up for the event, or to receive additional information, the Cathedral has asked those to contact Nicola Pratt, Head

of Development at Guildford Cathedral. Either by calling on 01483 547884 or by emailing [email protected]