Palm Sunday 2008

Even the gloomy weather and drizzle could not dampen the enthusiasm of members of St George’s Church, Whyke, on Sunday, when over 100 turned out to celebrate Palm Sunday, with a special service organised by rector Father Stuart Cradduck.

The service began at the Amphitheatre in Whyke Lane, where the gospel was preached by Father James Cooper, St Richards Hospital chaplain. Then, led by Charlotte the donkey, they processed down Whyke Lane, and along Cambrai Avenue, before turning into Whyke Road, and then finally into Cleveland Road and the church itself.

The choir, who only the previous afternoon had won their class at the Chichester Music Festival, was there in force, and everyone joined in with the singing.

A liturgy was held simultaneously in the church for those less able, who had not been able to join the procession, by Father James Rhodes-Wrigley, and those members of the congregation met the procession at the church door.

Once inside, the joyful mood became more sombre as the service continued with a reading of The Passion.


(click on photos to enlarge)