Two men accused of breaking into Christ Church Cathedral and attempting to steal a lectern after a night on the town have had the charges against them withdrawn.

Phillip Pavich and Gilbert Southworth were absent from their scheduled court appearances at the Christchurch District Court today, after being charged with burglary following the incident late last month.

Their lawyer told the court both men, aged 46 and 55, had written a letter of apology, and made a donation to the church.

The crown has accepted the judges ruling.