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The Bishop of Manchester's visit to
Christ Church Walmsley and St Andrew Bromley Cross on Friday June 25th 2010 began with prayers at St Andrew's attended by a small group of parishioners. The Bishop explained the significance of the Commonwealth Games Baton in relation to his visit and everyone took the opportunity to hold it, and to grasp its significance in passing on the Gospel to the next generation.
As there is little industry in the area Bishop Nigel was taken to a local farm which houses both a kennel and a cattery. Bishop Nigel spent some time speaking with Shaun, the owner, and some of the staff.
It was coincidental that Walmsley CE Primary School had organised a 'Summer Serenade' performed in Christ Church. This gave the Bishop the opportunity to take part in the proceedings and speak to the children during a short interlude. The school were celebrating having received a glowing OFSTED report and ranking within the top 30 schools in the country.
The bishop's encounter with young people continued as he joined with Brownies and Guides holding an open air camp fire gathering. The Bishop surprised the youngsters by enthusiastically joining in with both the songs and the actions.
A number of representatives from the church and local community, (about 80 in all) gathered in the Parish Hall for a light supper with the bishop. Churchwarden, Ken Holt, said, 'Bishop Nigel's visit was an outstanding day in the life of our church community. He is a superb ambassador and his visit has strengthened the existing links we have with the local community.
'The visit ended with a service of
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