CONFIRMATION AT SALISBURY

Ann Trevett : Cheryl and Graham Knott Kitrina Batchelor : Robert Sweet

What a great pleasure it has been to welcome into our church five newly confirmed members. On Sunday, 13th January, at the 9.45am Eucharist the whole congregation applauded and welcomed Kitrina Batchelor, Cheryl and Graham Knott, Ann Trevett and Robert Sweet as four of them received their first communion with us at St Marks. Robert works on shifts, so was unable to be present.

The previous day, many of us were present to support them and bear witness to their Confirmation at Salisbury Cathedral. Bishop Tim Thornton presided throughout in this most uplifting of services. Charles, our Rector, read that inspirational passage from Isaiah, in darkness from the back of the Nave and in a loud declamatory voice, "I have called, and you are mine". During this beginning a gentle singing of the Taize chant, Veni, Sancte Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit) from the congregation took place, with an obligato melody sung on top by the Precentor, Canon Jeremy Davies. It was such a moving experience and led to the first hymn, On Jordan's bank, the Baptist cry announces that the Lord is nigh. The service proceeded with its various stages, until, at the end, there was spontaneous applause as all those present for confirmation carrying lighted candles processed through the Chancel, down the aisle to the back of the Nave with the Bishop - a marvellous occasion for all present