One of England's most important cathedrals has defended its decision to host silent discos after opponents said it gave the impression Christians did not take their faith seriously.
The sell-out events today and tomorrow will see two 90s-themed discos featuring music from the likes of Britney Spears, Spice Girls and Eminem.
Canterbury Cathedral in southeast England, founded in 597, is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England and head of the worldwide Anglican Communion.
More than 1,600 people have signed a petition calling for the cancellation of the discos, at which people dance to their own choice of music on wireless headphones.
Petition organiser Cajetan Skowronski said the events would give the wrong impression about Christians and how they approach their faith.
"It will not bring young people closer to Christ, rather it will send the message that... entertainment deserves our attention more than God, that Christians do not take their faith or their holy places seriously," Mr Skowronski said.
The Dean of Canterbury, Reverend David Monteith, defended the events saying that they would be "appropriate to and respectful of the cathedral".
"It is categorically not a 'rave in the nave' - but I appreciate that some will never agree that dancing and pop music have a place within cathedrals."
Reverend Monteith added that cathedrals have always played a part in wider community life, and said he is looking forward to welcoming people to this week's retro disco.
"Cathedrals have always been part of community life in a way much wider than their prime focus as centres of Christian worship and mission, and whether people choose to come to Canterbury Cathedral primarily as worshippers, sightseers, or attendees at our events - which include classical concerts, light and sound installations, and craft workshops - it's always joyous to see them discover this incredible place anew and on their own terms." he said.
A spokesman for Silent Discos In Incredible Places, who organise events in unique venues across the UK, described them as "innocent" and "feel-good".
He said that they are focused on bringing people together to "sing the songs they love in the spectacular surroundings of the cathedral", and added that they help generate revenue which contributes to the costs in maintaining the historic building.
Canterbury Cathedral, in southeastern England, already holds a number of other public events including classical concerts, light shows and Lego masterclasses.
Silent discos are also due to be held at other cathedrals in southeast and eastern England later this month in Guildford, Ely and Chelmsford.
