Sigurd Barrett writes hymn for Viborg Cathedral’s 150th anniversary

Musician and entertainer Sigurd Barrett, who was baptised and confirmed at Viborg Cathedral, has written a new hymn to mark the church’s 150th anniversary, DR reports.

The hymn, titled “My church rests on granite”, made its official debut during a special anniversary service at the cathedral.

Barrett said the cathedral had a significant place in his life. He was confirmed and married there, and both of his parents were buried at the church.

“I have an endless number of good stories from my own life connected to Viborg Cathedral, so being allowed to write a hymn for the anniversary was a great honour and joy,” he said.

The hymn was created in cooperation with the cathedral’s parish council and staff.

Henrik Stubkjær, bishop of the Diocese of Viborg, said the hymn reflected Barrett’s love for the cathedral and predicted that it would be widely sung.

“I expect it will be sung a great deal, not only here in Viborg but throughout the country,” he said.

Barrett said the cathedral represented his experience of faith as something bright, open and inclusive. He also described it as an important gathering place for the people of Viborg.

The anniversary service included a flyover by the Danish Air Force. Barrett said he hoped the hymn would continue to be sung for many years.