After last year’s heavy rain, we were blessed this Good Friday with glorious warm sunshine!

Our ecumenical open air service was a little different this year.

Members from four of our churches gave reflections on the stations of the cross, as we journeyed around the town centre, starting with worship in Northumberland Square, then stopping in three places in Bedford Street, before returning to the square for the final hymn.  We also had some chants.  There was a good turn out for the procession, led by a huge wooden cross and the band of the Salvation Army.  We were also joined by Alan Campbell MP and Mayor Norma Redfearn, who brought greetings to the community.

As each station was reached, the words were nailed to the cross, bringing the reflections to life:

Fear, betrayal, denial, judgement, powerlessness, torture, burden, mercy, tears, forgiveness, hope, family, death and tomorrow.

As we walked along, we also gave out Easter cards, inviting spectators to come to church this Easter.