Just back from a blissful parish pilgrimage in glorious sunshine where 40 something Barnabites enjoyed spending time together. I will share more news and photographs later this week, after I am suitably rested and refreshed. Until then I offer you just a few; the lead photograph (above) shows a snapshot of this morning’s stations…pray who is not listening to ‘father’?
Next we see the new Shrine Administrator +Lindsay Urwin, who I felt absolutely shone in his new role. I cannot help but think that Bishop Lindsay and Walsingham are a match made in heaven, due to some clear evanglestic gifts and a down to earth nature. I could not quite put my finger on it….but there was a very tangible sense of holiness this year and I delighted in the more prominent role offfered to the various religious at the Shrine.
The parish servers all enjoyed taking full part in the proceedings as well! I love this picture of Michael and Jon ready for action and looking far more pious than is ever really the case! Special thanks to Michael in particular who organised things for us this year.
As you can see the Bull is lowering its tone and almost anyone can get in these days- even senior figures in the Forward in Faith movement. Surely it was only the charm and beauty of Mrs. Parkinson that got them over the threashold…but then they are sort of locals these days!
It is not only the devotions, such as the pictured stations of the cross, which make these weekends so very special, it is also the opportunity to relax and catch up with friends. The picnic on arrival is a perfect chance for this.
And finally the-all-to oft-seen indulgence shot taken by a very proud father. I must admit that the highlight this weekend was watching Jemima process on her own two feet, keeping pace with the bustling crowd as ‘Laud O Sion’ bellowed out from the strategically positioned speakers in the garden.
