THE Cathedral of St Michael and St John in Bathurst is rarely opened for people to explore, but that opportunity will be available on Sunday.
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Those who join a tour of the cathedral will see some of its hidden treasures and significant architectural features.
Catholic Diocese of Bathurst vice chancellor Tony Eviston said the tour will take guests to parts of the cathedral that are usually kept behind closed doors.
“The tour allows you to explore the rich history of the faith that built this place of worship over the past 150 years,” he said.
“Sunday’s free tour will showcase some of the secrets of the 150-year-old Gothic style cathedral. In this year of sesquicentenary celebrations, the tour takes you into parts of the cathedral that not everyone gets to go.”
Included in the tour will be the sacristy and the bell tower, and those attending will be shown items such as chalices and vestments that are rarely seen and hold a fascinating history.
“They’re used all the time but you don’t often get the chance to see them up close,” Mr Eviston said.
Among other pieces on show will be the relic of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, which contains a small strand of the saint’s hair, given to the Diocese when she was canonised in 2010.
The tour will be held from 2pm on Sunday.
Anyone interested can book a tour spot ahead of time by phoning the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst office on 6334 6400.
While it is a free tour, people will be encouraged to give a gold coin donation that will go towards helping the Diocese continue its work.