When we can’t carry on as normal, it makes us stop and think, doesn’t it. For several years on Good Friday morning we have enjoyed the peace of the churchyard for our reflections. The crosses and tomb in the Spiritual Garden have provided our focal point. This year they are hidden behind fencing and builders’ equipment. How to experience the “outdoor” feel of the events in Jerusalem 2000 years ago without these powerful spaces and “thin places” where it is easy to sense God’s presence?
Jesus’ last hours on earth as a human being were played out in public, under the glare of soldiers, priests, friends, enemies and passers by. What could be more fitting then, than to be in the public glare ourselves as we walk through Downend, remembering that most terrible and wonderful of days.
This year we will be tracing the footsteps of that journey as we walk through Downend, carrying a large cross and stopping at designated places to hear the Easter readings. The short journey will begin at King George playing fields car park and end at Dial Lane. Not for us the emptiness and sorrow felt by the women who watched Jesus’ last hours on the cross: after the walk we will be blessed by those modern women of faith, the Mothers Union, as they serve refreshments in the Parish Hall to end our time together.
We hope that you’ll join us whatever your age,with wheelchairs, mobility scooters, pushchairs and scooters welcome. If you can’t manage the whole walk, you could join us at any point.
We will be giving out cards with a special message helping passers by to discover the power of the Cross and the Empty tomb, and letting them know of our Easter services.
Full details of the walk are found in our event in What’s On and on the facebook event. If you would like to get involved please get in touch with Anita Dobson 07753233950 anitadobson@christchurchdownend.com
Walk with us as you journey to the cross.