horses for forces and a ringing requiem

What both events proved was that Liverpool's two cathedrals are not simply places of worship (important though that is), but they are also great places of congregation - of drawing people together in what are two spectacular venues.
Now, of course, not only are the buildings linked by "a street called Hope" but also by a green beam of laser light which was particularly vibrant when we cascaded out of the Met on Saturday evening.
The Requiem was a powerhouse performance, and when all 400 voices roared away at the Dies Irae it was quite thrilling.
There was a standing ovation at the end, and even we notoriously difficult to please press hauled ourselves to our feet - mind you, it was after at least one of us got a telling off for not standing up by a four year old member of the Petrenko clan (young Sasha who conducted the choir and orchestra to a conclusion from his seat).
Yesterday was a more sombre occasion when the city hosted the National Police Memorial Day.
Prince Charles, who is patron of the event, rolled up and spent several minutes chatting with the police horses and their riders outside.
Inside he had a word with the Lord Mayor who told me later: "He said it was nice to be back and said 'it must have been a busy year for you'."
Yes, just a bit! And it's not over yet.
And personally, I'll be back at Liverpool Cathedral on Friday afternoon for the QE2 farewell concert.
Back to church Sunday? Back to church Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.......