The Canterbury War Horse

Canterbury Cathedral is the Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Communion. It is also a tourist attraction and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. In common with all churches in Britain the cathedral closed in March. Services resumed on 5 July and visitors are once again welcome throughout the week. 2020 has been a challenging year for places or worship, whatever their size.

In the Cathedral Precincts stands the Canterbury War Horse. Installed in 2018 as part of the World War I Centenary Commemorations the 20 foot high horse towers over visitors. It stands, head bowed, as a reminder of both the human and animal lives lost in war. 

This year, loss of life has been a daily fact of life. Efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 have brought further loss. No-one has been untouched by the health crisis that threatens our lives and our well being. 

The War Horse is intended to encourage reflection on the human experience of loss. Sited as it is near the main door of the Cathedral, it stands as a reminder that God does not turn away from human suffering and loss. In this historic place of worship, where the resurrected Jesus is worshipped, God's compassion and concern for the whole creation is daily affirmed and celebrated. 

Canterbury's War Horse is not a memorial to lives lost in a war that ended over a hundred years ago. It is a reminder that death does not have the final word.