As the joys and celebrations of the Easter weekend come to a close, we’re taking a look back at a selection of events, services, and Easter messages from across the diocese.
On Maundy Thursday, the Bishops blessed the sacred oils as part of the Chrism Mass. Salisbury Cathedral was filled with clergy and lay ministers, including our three Bishops, as they gathered to renew their ordination vows and re-affirm their commitments as Christ’s ministers.
Bishop Stephen preached on Easter Sunday at both Sherborne Abbey and Salisbury Cathedral. His sermon focused on living a life without restrictions, and the freedom that resurrection brings. Read his sermon here on our website or watch the video stream.
At St Deny's church, Warminster, the clergy and congregation got creative as they participated in Easter Messy Minster, an arts and crafts event focused on the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Now in its 13th year, the event produced beautifully decorated stained glass hanging crosses, new life jewelled butterflies, and a whole load of fun and reflection!
Elsewhere in Wimborne Minster at the Minster church, Bishop Karen Gorham joined the ‘Bun Walk to Pamphill,’ an annual walk that takes place on Good Friday to coincide with other Walks of Witness. People of all ages joined the Bishop on the walk where they miraculously found hot cross buns growing on all the trees - a tradition that goes back over 40 years.
In the market town of Shaftesbury, over 70 people set out to join their own Walk of Witness where they remembered the last steps of Jesus Christ and reflected on topics of pain, healing and hope.
On Easter Sunday at Swanage Beach, a crowd gathered early at sunrise to join together and celebrate the good news. Hannah Fleming-Hill, one of those in attendance, posted some stunningly beautiful pictures from the morning along with the tweet: “HE IS RISEN! Alleluia! … what a glorious start to the day.”
Over in Radipole, St Ann’s with St Aldhelm had a most joyful and busy Easter morning. All those gathered celebrated with hot cross buns, all-age worship, and even a baptism, all whilst the cross outside transformed with stunning new life!
Revd Leila Mather also found herself enjoying a long and varied Easter weekend as she served a variety of rural churches in her benefice. She was even joined briefly by her very own donkey!
And the West Purbeck Benefice held an Easter Sunday beach service at Lulworth Cove. They had planned for about 60 people to attend from across the benefice but were amazed to find that over 100 people turned up.
Revd David Chillman, Associate Priest, shared with us: "We had a great time on the beach, with perfect weather and look forward to repeating the service next Easter, with perhaps even more people attending."
To round off the end of Easter Sunday, Bishop Stephen left us with a moment of reflection whilst reminding us of God’s promises. You can find his Easter day video here, or by going to the Diocese of Salisbury Facebook page.
That's all for the Easter round-up. We love to hear from you, so feel free to send us an email at comms@salisbury.anglican.org and let us know what is happening in your church or area.