Brecon Cathedral is ready to welcome people to its centenary celebrations, starting on the 14th of September.

The 100-year celebration kicks off with a talk from Rowan Williams, followed by a drinks reception. The talk, focussing on Welsh Cathedrals: Past and Present, will be hosted by the 104th Archbishop of Canterbury (2002-12), who will explore the purpose and mission of cathedrals through the ages.

Recently, The Very Reverend Dr Paul Shackerley, the Dean of Brecon, spoke with The Brecon and Radnor Express about the future of the church.

He said, "Some churches are moving on. Others look at us and laugh. It's attractive to change. It surprises me how people open up about church and politics in a more relaxed environment, and ask why the church is a certain way. If you have a bible in one hand, you have to have a newspaper in the other, as one theologian said. I find those conversations refreshing. I think it has become a more open place than it was."

On Saturday the 16th of September, from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm, the cathedral will host the Medieval Fayre. Described as an opportunity to step back in time, the event will allow families to witness duelling knights, see entertaining jesters, hear medieval music and experience re-enactments. There will be a children’s play area, living history, educational workshops and talks, as well as local food and drink.

This is the event that The Dean is most excited for. "We have a re-enactment coming, with the realism of kings and queens and jousting. It will be a great family day. It's a lovely contained place, with stalls and music from local musicians."

Finally, on Sunday the 17th of September, from 3:30 pm, there will be a Centenary Choral Evensong with Orchestra, which has been sung for centuries and is a central feature of the cathedral’s liturgy, being held 3 times a week most weeks of the year. This special service will be a fitting end to the weekend and a musical treat.

All events are free, and designed for everybody to enjoy.