Bar Convent, York: Garments woven into history of secret chapel to go on public display in Yorkshire

Three vestments which were designed for and worn at the opening mass of the chapel have been on loan to Catholic churches in York over the years but this is the first time they have been reunited in the chapel since 1769.

They will be on display as part of York Georgian Festival.

The Bar Convent, York, was first established when Catholicism was illegal. The chapel was built in complete secrecy and took 20 years to complete. The first Mass was held on April 29 1769 and the vestments were only worn together in the chapel on that occasion.

Since then, one vestment has been on display in the Bar Convent’s exhibition, but the remaining two have been in the possession of different churches, until now.

Dr Hannah Thomas of Bar Convent said: “Historically, these three vestments have been lent to different churches in the city, and it has taken some time to arrange for their return to their original home. These incredibly significant vestments were designed and made as a set specifically for the opening of this very special chapel and we are both thrilled and moved to be able to share this historic reunion with the public.

“The vestments will be displayed behind the altar in the chapel where they were first worn together more than 250 years ago, at great risk to the priests and all those who attended.

“Not only have these Georgian vestments survived a time in which Catholic material was regularly seized and destroyed, but the fact that the chapel and the convent have also survived against all the odds is an incredible story that we will be highlighting as part of the inaugural York Georgian Festival 2023.”

The display will take place from August 3 to 5. On August 5 the chapel is only open from 2pm-5pm.

On Thursday August 3 from 5.30pm to 7pm there will be an exclusive and unique evening to witness an historic moment in the Bar Convent’s story.

Guests are invited to enjoy private access to the house where they can discover the fascinating story behind our Georgian architecture, including the 18th chapel, with an introduction to the history of the house and the vestments by Dr Thomas. A “glass of fizz” is included on arrival.

Tickets can be booked through the Bar Convent website.

The vestments are in a style called a Chasuble - a sleeveless vestment which is the top layer worn by Catholic or High Anglican priests when celebrating Mass.

The shape has varied over time, but this is typical of the 17th and 18th centuries. There is also a matching stole - the narrow, long piece of fabric which was worn underneath the Chasuble.

These particular vestments are an incredible example of 18th century craftmanship. They are handmade with gold threads on a background of silk damask and feature an early use of sequins on liturgical clothing in England.