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BAPTISMS IN THE RIVER WHARFE, - 13 July 2008

Story (beneath the photos) by the Reverend Canon George Moffat.
Photos by James Pearson. When viewing the photos, you may find it convenient to press <f11> to have the full screen of your monitor available.

O HAPPY DAY
(words by the Reverend Canon George Moffat)

The build up of rain was significant and everybody was anxiously checking the long range weather forecast. The Diocesan Bishop. David James, alone betrayed no fear. Contingency plans were in operation and if that had been the case the Priory would have been packed to bursting. As it was the sky was azure blue, the sun shone, the River Wharfe’s water level reduced to levels where baptisms in safety could take place…and they did.

Children and adults, male, female, families, all, died to sin and rose to a new life in Christ Jesus. They gasped and yelped at the coldness of the July water and wondered at their own audacity to go so public about faith. The Church from the bank clapped and sang encouragement. “River wash over me, Cleanse me and make me new.”

There was a stately procession from the Priory , of choristers, Archdeacons, Priests, Bishops from Sudan, Pakistan and the USA. Bishops David James and Colin Buchanan, whose lungs had preceded audible helps, encouraged the people and candidates in this way of Christ and celebration of the Sacrament .

Over 30 candidates for confirmation came forth from across the diocese and their priests adminstered Holy Communion to the over 500 people. Gawthorpe Brass Band and Holm Wood and Tong Parish music groups led the throng through moving hymns.

This diocese supplied Yorkshire Dales Ice cream of Halton East for all at the end.

A remarkable celebration of some note took place that day. One that will enrich many individual lives for years to come; one that encouraged the Diocese and one that gave the Priory Church an experience on which it can confidently build.

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