|
When the Bishop of Manchester visited St Luke's Chadderton on Advent Sunday, 30th November 2008, his own pilgrimage gained a new symbolic power as he walked alongside church members to a new stage in the life of their church.
Priest-in-charge, Revd David Penny said: 'Bishop Nigel's pilgrimage visit fits well with what is happening at St Luke's. As the church building closes we give thanks to God for the faithful witness to the Gospel over the last 120 years, but we also look forward to what God is doing among us today and where He is leading us in the future. I am sure that the bishop's visit will give us a fitting way to give thanks for all that has been and the courage to follow where God is leading.'
To prepare for the bishop's visit, everyone in the congregation was asked to write down their favourite memory of St Luke's and these were presented by the vicar and wardens during the final service in church.
After the service the bishop led the procession of church members, friends and guests down the road to St Luke's CE School, where the church will continue to meet for worship. A 'fresh expressions' type of ministry will continue the life and mission of the parish in the area.
'When the PCC made the decision last year to set in motion the process of closing the building to release us into a new era and form of ministry in the St. Luke's area we knew it would be a difficult and painful transition,' continued David Penny, 'That Bishop Nigel is able to be with us on such an occasion is an honour and a great encouragement.'
In the final part of the service, held in the school hall, the church's new home, an Advent candle was lit, and a younger member of both the church and school, returned the baton to the Bishop. The service
|
|
