A PACKED programme of services, music and reflection is set to take place at Salisbury Cathedral as the city prepares to mark one of the most significant periods in the Christian calendar.

More than 30 services will be held across eight days as part of the cathedral’s Holy Week and Easter observances, running from Palm Sunday on March 29 through to Easter Day on April 5.

Holy Week commemorates the final days of Jesus’ life, leading to his crucifixion on Good Friday and culminating in the celebration of his resurrection at Easter.

The programme begins on Saturday, March 28, when St John’s Singers will perform The Crucifixion in a special service ahead of the start of Holy Week.

Among the most striking services will be Sarum Tenebrae: A Service of Shadows on Wednesday, April 1, at 7.30pm.

Easter Sunday service last year. (Picture: Finnbarr Webster)

Inspired by the ancient Sarum Rite traditions that originated at Old Sarum, the atmospheric service takes place entirely by candlelight.

During the ceremony, candles are gradually extinguished until only a single light remains, symbolising Christ.

This final candle is then put out with a dramatic “thunderclap”, representing the earthquake described in the Bible after Jesus’ death.

During the service, the cathedral choir will also premiere a new series of nine liturgical pieces composed by Piers Kennedy.

Another special event during the week will be Voices from the Foot of the Cross on Tuesday, March 31 – a youth-led service featuring readings, reflections and prayers inspired by the crucifixion.

Easter Day celebrations will begin before dawn. The Easter Vigil and readings start at 4.30am, followed by the Easter Liturgy at 5.30am, which begins outside the cathedral where a fire will be lit, and a single candle kindled to symbolise the rising sun and the resurrection.

The Easter dawn liturgy. (Picture: Finnbarr Webster)

Later that morning, the 10.30am service will include the blessing of the Easter Garden and the celebration of the empty tomb. The day concludes with Festal Evensong at 3pm.

Looking ahead, the cathedral will also host Alleluia! Christ is Risen: An Easter Carol Service on April 26, featuring music from Five Mystical Songs, settings of poems by the 17th-century Salisbury poet George Herbert.

The Revd Anna Macham said: “The services and events of Holy Week and Easter are at the very centre of our faith, shaping not only the Christian story but the story of humanity itself.

“In this most sacred week, the church invites us to step into these moments and allow them to transform us.

“With a full programme of services, special events, and activities for all ages, both during Holy Week and in the days leading up to it, there are many ways to take part. All are welcome to join us.”