Down Cathedral receives recognition for tourism

Down Cathedral receives recognition for tourism

12 February 2020

DOWN Cathedral in Downpatrick has been officially recognised for giving visitors a warm welcome.

The Welcome Ministry of Down Cathedral received special recognition from CIE Tours International at a recent awards ceremony in Dublin.

The awards were based on feedback from over 25,000 CIE customers surveyed throughout the year.

Dean Henry Hull and cathedral administrator Sharon McVeigh collected the award at a ceremony at Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral last month.

Down Cathedral was one of only seven locations in Ulster to receive a merit award, along with Hillsborough Castle and the Giant’s Causeway.

Dean Hull explained that welcome is at the heart of our ministry in Down Cathedral.

“Over 50,000 people visit the cathedral each year. Many arrive as tourists, but we hope that they leave as pilgrims. The cathedral community has had hospitality at its centre for centuries, since the foundation of a Benedictine Abbey on the site over 800 years ago.  

“We work hard to make sure that welcome is extended today to everyone who arrives through the doors and we pray regularly for those who do visit us.”

Dean also praised the work the staff team — Janet Fleming and Sonia Geddis — and the many volunteers — who are led by Sharon in the welcome ministry, for giving visitors such a wonderful reception.