National Glass Centre

Benedict Biscop Weekend 12 - 13 January

Sunderland Arts Centre and Library

Saturday 12th January 9.30 - 4pm

Benedict Biscop is brought into the technological age with the National Glass Centre Digital Interactive Story Book. Created by Shoofly and pupils from Grindon Infant School this interactive story is illustrated entirely by the pupils and features their interpretation of the story of Sunderland’s Patron Saint, including imagined postcards written to Sunderland by Benedict himself. Have a go at creating your own digital story.

Activities at St Peter's Church

To celebrate Benedict Biscop Day, the National Glass Centre are contributing to fun events at St Peters Church as part of their Story of Sunderland project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.  The project aims to engage visitors, community groups and schools with the life of Benedict Biscop and Sunderland's wider heritage, through creative activities.

Saturday 12th January 12-3pm

Family Workshop

Artist Elaine Porter will be creating beautiful stained glass effect willow lanterns from withies and tissue, inspired by the stained glass windows of St Peters Church.  Visitors are invited to drop by between 12 and 3 to help create the lanterns or create a small 2D version to take home.

 Sunday 13th January 12pm

Performance: Sunderland Community Choir

Immediately after the service at 11, Sunderland Community Choir will be performing for all.  Either join the service first or pop in especially for the performance at 12, and enjoy free mince pies and mulled wine afterwards.

 Sunday 13th January 12.30 -2.30 (approx)

Workshop: BENEDICT BISCOP AND BEDE: a glimpse of their life in readings and chant All are welcome to  take part in a workshop led by Jonathan Adams, director of the Benedict Biscop Gregorian Choir.  Across more than 1300 years sense the excitement and commitment of Benedict Biscop and Bede. Hear some of Bede's words about Benedict Biscop. Sing some of their music and catch a glimpse of their life.

 Starting with a quick taster at 12.30, we shall sing a Christmas piece Benedict Biscop and Bede knew, a hymn by Bede, and music for town and monastery life. We plan to end the workshop around 2.30 by singing what we have learnt and hearing readings from Bede's writing.

 No experience necessary • all ages from 10+ • all voices • any faith or none.