This week I had the privilege of welcoming Derry Hill School into church for their Easter service.  The children took us on a journey from Palm Sunday, through the events of Holy Week and on to the resurrection joy of Easter Day.

The singing was confident and exuberant.  The dramatic presentations were engaging – I particularly enjoyed the Temple scene with wonderful acting skills from a very indignant ‘Jesus’ and an equally forthright temple trader.  There was a powerful crucifixion scene involving a spatter painted cross, shadow and silhouette.  There were reflections from Mary Magdalene’s perspective, drawing on the children’s rich imaginations and creative writing skills.  And so many more highlights…

Despite popular assumptions to the contrary, the Easter story is well known by our young people.  The storytelling and joyful atmosphere exhibited in church this week is, for me, a beacon of hope.

So thank you to the children and to all the staff who have obviously worked so hard, for making this Holy Week extra special and for helping me to experience the momentous events of Jesus’ Passion and Resurrection with fresh insight.

There are various services being held in the churches in Bremhill, Foxham and Derry Hill to take us through Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday; culminating in celebrations for Easter Sunday (details on website and pew sheets).  In addition we are making Easter Gardens at church in Bremhill on Good Friday morning and at Derry Hill on Saturday morning, both at 10am. You are very welcome at any and all of these events, and maybe you too might discover a new insight into the most amazing story of the power of love.

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and blessed Easter.  Linda.