SOME feared the introduction of admission charges would isolate York Minster from its community. For them, Christmas Eve offered welcome reassurance. That afternoon, the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe was so full of worshippers there was barely standing room. It was an impressive sight.

Sceptics will point out that this was one of the Church's biggest days of the year, and that entrance fees were suspended for three days during Christmas. But that misses the point.

The well-attended seasonal services proved that recent controversies have not undermined the bond between the Minster and York residents. Instead, they confirmed the great church's role, not merely as a symbol of the city, but as its heart.

York Minster has been the focal point for public celebrations and ceremonies for centuries. At times of national mourning, when marking momentous events such as the Millennium, or during annual festivities such as the forthcoming New Year countdown, we turn to the Minster.

This tradition will continue, charges or no. In itself, that justifies acting Dean of York Glyn Webster's optimism. But there is also a sense that the problems of 2003 - including the madness which was the plan to shut the Minster library - have been cathartic for the cathedral community.

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, has described dealing with the crises as therapeutic. Dean Webster speaks today of rising staff morale, adding that the difficulties "brought us closer to the various constituencies we relate to".

There are still major challenges for York Minster in 2004. But we should be confident that they can be faced, with both the chapter and York people uniting behind St Peter's cathedral.

Updated: 10:03 Tuesday, December 30, 2003