Pagan Worship at Blackburn Cathedral

I was disturbed to learn last week that Blackburn Cathedral, the most important church in the area and seat of the nearest Anglican bishop, is to hire itself out for pagan worship. On several occasions during the autumn, one may sit under a giant and beautifully made representation of the earth, called Gaia (the Greek earth goddess), and engage in Yoga and meditation:

Experience yoga like never before at Blackburn Cathedral, beneath the breathtaking Gaia installation. Open to all abilities, this session blends mindful movement with the inspiring presence of Earth as seen from space. Spaces are limited and always sell out, so book now to secure your place in this special event…

…Immerse yourself in tranquility with an unforgettable sound bath at Blackburn Cathedral under the glow of Gaia… Close your eyes, breathe, meditate, relax and unwind as you experience the peaceful power of sound healing. Grab a pillow, blanket and get comfortable in the serene atmosphere of one of the region’s most iconic spaces. With limited availability and high demand, be sure to book early to avoid missing out…

…Step into serenity with a yoga session at Blackburn Cathedral, set beneath the stunning ‘Gaia’…

-And so on. I can hear the justifications for it now:

“Oh, its just harmless fun”.

“Its helping people’s mental health.”

“It’s drawing attention to climate change and looking after the planet.”

“It’s a deeply spiritual event, so it can’t be harmful.”

“It’s raising much needed money for a Christian church.”

“You’re being too judgemental.”

“We need to be more 'at one' with nature.”

"It's getting people into church, isn't it?"

“We don’t actually worship Gaia, we are just honouring the earth.”

No. Invoking a pagan deity and meditating under her image in a Christian church is plain idolatry. May the Dean and Chapter of Blackburn Cathedral repent. May the name of Jesus Christ, for whose honour that cathedral was orginally built, be once again glorified in that place.