Easter Services

Post date: Apr 19, 2015 7:55:13 AM

There were so many services and events in the time leading up to Easter that gave us an opportunity to join with people across the United Benefice and beyond. These are a few of our experiences.

In terms of getting together with other people, we enjoyed the thought-provoking Study Group sessions at the Methodist Church, attended by over 40 people on several occasions. The chance to ask questions and hear a variety of ideas is a welcome addition to attending Sunday services. The Ecumenical Passover Meal, led by Father Doran, was a “full house”. We learned a great deal about the symbolic foods used in the meal and the significance of the stages of the meal itself. The food was excellent and so was the company.

At Balderstone, the stark words and images brought home the reality of the Crucifixion. The silence during the stripping of the altar at Samlesbury was an opportunity for quiet contemplation. The darkness in church at St Mary’s, lit only by the candles we held. The mist and peacefulness at the dawn service on Mellor Moor.

It does not seem right to pick out something above the rest, but for us the beautiful singing and organ-playing at the Passiontide Reflections service were unforgettable. Our thanks to Mike Wilcock, and to Amma Sue for all her work in organising so many services.

Jim and Sue