St. Clare’s Church was packed to welcome Rev, Justin Welby the Archbishop of Canterbuty designate, last Sunday. As Bishop of Durham he had already agreed to visit the Parish to officiate at the First Eucharist in Advent, so it gave everyone the opportunity to congratulate him and wish him well in his new appointmment.
The Mayor and Mayoress were present along with our MP Phil Wilson and his partner Margaret and many remarked it was nice to see the church so full for the Sunday Service.
In an engaging and humorous sermon the Bishop said how much his life had changed in the last weeks. Before he received letters wrapped in a red elastic band, but now they come in a crate!
He spoke on how waiting was a part of life and Christians were wating for Jesus to fulfil his promise to return. “We can’t ignore him in death and we won’t ignore him when he comes again. We can know him now – Jesus is right beside us when we turn to him.” said Bishop Justin.
After the Service the Bishop took time to speak to the congregation and posed for a photograph with the “Shine” junior choir who performed two beautiful songs.
