Christ Church,
Davyhulme

The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Revd. Nigel McCulloch found out how to perform the perfect service when he visited Davyhulme - on Tuesday 16th June 2009.
His lesson (in car maintenance, from  Craig's Garage on Lostock Road was the latest stop of his ongoing 'Run the Race' pilgrimage around the Diocese of Manchester.
After prayers in Christ Church, the bishop toured the parish with Vicar, Rev. Bob Hill. The bishop visited Kingsway Primary School, where he met school head, Alison Bowdon. After a brief tour of the school to admire some recently-painted murals painted by the children with help from a community artist, Bishop Nigel also popped in on housebound parishioner, Joan Gillfillan.
A Community reception for 140 in the Parish centre was attended by the Mayor of Trafford and local councillors,  with representatives of many voluntary organisations and church members. They were entertained by children from Kingsway School who performed songs from a CD recorded last year with Andy Silver of Pop Connection.
The bishop cut a special cake decorated with an icing photograph of the church.
Most of those at the reception stayed for a pilgrimage service in church. Interviews with church members and an audio-visual presentation told the history and current life of Christ Church. The Commonwealth Games baton which has accompanied the bishop on his pilgrimage was presented by Alma Smith and Walter Jackson, senior

Photos from this Run the race Bishop's pilgrimage

church members who are currently preparing for confirmation.
Vicar, Rev. Bob Hill said of the bishop's visit: "There has been a remarkable impact on the church and community. The bishop's visit has helped to strengthen community links and to show that we are a church for everyone in the parish."

"The hard work put into the planning was rewarded by a lovely day and many happy smiling faces.
"The balance of formality and informality was at just the right level. Many have said that they felt at ease in speaking to the bishop and that he carefully listened to their comments.
"Canon Roger Hill has also visited a recent PCC meeting to help us follow up the visit in a positive way."