St Mary, Cadishead

The bishop of Manchester made a combined visit to the parishes of Irlam and Cadishead on the 28th and 29th January 2008 as part of his three-year pilgrimage, reflecting the growing relationship between the two parishes as they move towards forming a group ministry.

The bishop's visit began with a community reception at St Mary's church hall. Among the invited guests were the mayor of Salford - Cllr Valerie Burgoyne, local councillors, and representatives of the different aspects of the life of the local community.

Priest-in-charge, Jonathan Tallon said, 'there was a very healthy turnout; the reception was a great opportunity to gather together members of community.'

Most of those present (including the mayor) moved into St Mary's for the Pilgrimage Celebration service, which was jointly led by Jonathan Tallon, priest-in-charge of St Mary's Cadishead and David Wheeler, Priest-in charge of St John's Irlam.

Together they made a presentation telling the story of their respective churches and communities and at the end of the service, the baton was given back to the bishop by four children: two from St Mary's and two from St John's.

The response of those present was very positive: one lady in the congregation said that it was one of the most moving services she'd ever attended.

Priest-in-charge of St Mary's Cadishead, Jonathan Tallon said, 'I was very pleased with the way the visit went.

Photos from this Run the race Bishop's pilgrimage

'It was encouraging for the people of St Mary's, and I hope, of St John's too, and it was great to have Bishop Nigel at a service  with both congregations together - another symbol of our moving closer together in our relationship and cooperation. I hope that we can build on all the links made during the visit and continue to encourage one another in our faith into the future.'