We had an amazing day yesterday when St Cuthberts was rededicated following the restoration. It was great to have Bishop Tony and our super new Archdeacon, Anne Dawtry with us - and to have the support of our MP, Mayor and local councillors.  The highlight was undoubtably the unusual sight of a procession - led by a crucifer (Graham wanted double pay for that).  At Cuths we tend to wander rather than process - but this was a special occasion, and of course you do need some way of getting your Bishop safely from one end of the church to another by the shortest route. Here, just for historical records is said procession..........he does seem to be keeping his distance from the Church Wardens. Please note our lovely newly restored floor - no high heels allowed!

Other memorable processions............................?

An odd one: tramping though a muddy field in Elstow with Bishop John Richardson (+ Bedford) in the pouring rain.  Me reciting a psalm while he consecrated an extension to the graveyard. This odd and ancient rite being observed by a selection of rather tipsy gentlemen who had just left the village pub.  It would have made a good scene for 'Rev'.

One I'd rather forget: an unfortunate day in  Peel Cathedral when no one would walk next to me in procession - what with me being a woman and all ( the only female priest in the Diocese at the time)

and lots of joyful ones....processing out of St Albans Abbey after my ordination and the end of each of my induction services since then.

My sabbatical has now officially begun and I am heading for Australia.... but not in a procession.