Today we welcomed guest preacher  The Reverend Canon Sheila Bamber, the Canon Provost of Sunderland at the Celebration Eucharist for the Feast of Bernard Gilpin.  Sheila wondered what Bernard Gilpin would have made of our celebration of his life and achievements and reflected on his view that faith and our labour are and should be intertwined.  Also exploring the role of the Church in society today in speaking out for those who are marginalized by poverty.  A thought provoking sermon.

We also welcomed a small number of additional once a month members to our choir, these numbers perhaps impacted by those busy folk working hard in the Kepier Hall preparing lunch and others down South supporting our City’s football team.  Feedback following the service was that the sound was pleasing to the ear and those who took part felt welcomed and enjoyed the experience.

After the Celebration Eucharist a delicious lunch was served in the Kepier Hall, a time for conversation, companionship and a celebration of our church community.

Gathered around Bernard Gilpin's tomb

Rev Canon Sheila Bamber, Rev Judith Howes & Rev Margaret Lee