Transcendence started as a collaboration between York Minster and the Visions Alt:Worship Community; aiming to mix ancient forms of music and liturgy with contemporary visuals and ambience.
Until 2012, this has taken the form of an ‘ancient future mass’, a communion service with recognisably catholic ceremonial combined with music and visual forms drawn from many traditions to celebrate God’s presence with us in bread and wine. However, we’ve recently started experimenting with the ancient monastic service of Compline (or night prayer), blending the beautiful sound of plainchant with space to chill.
Transcendence draws on York Minster’s rich and beautiful medieval art, bringing alive the carving, saints and stained glass beneath its soaring ceiling. Transcendence is a popular fixture at Greenbelt; and works with several northern cathedrals and minsters (including Beverley, Ripon, Bradford and Doncaster) to hold services across the province. It has also also expanded to hold a regular service at Leeds Minster.
There is always space to step apart and contemplate alone, using creative prayer stations, or simply this astounding building for inspiration. Incense is used as a sign of purification and the ministers wear ceremonial vestments; the aim is to create a space where tradition can be renewed in adoration of the majesty and mercy of God.