Benefice of Saddleworth

As part of Bishop Nigel's Run the Race Pilgrimage he visited churches in the Benefice of Saddleworth. As there was a lot of travelling between churches the pilgrimage was spread over two days - Tuesday March 27 and Wednesday March 28, 2007.

Team Rector Rev Simon Brandes explained: "The sun shone for the two days of the pilgrimage and it was glorious. It wasn't shining before and it wasn't shining afterwards. We're quite rural here so it was really rather beautiful. People thoroughly enjoyed Bishop Nigel being here with the team and visiting each of the parishes."

On the first day of the Saddleworth pilgrimage visit Bishop Nigel said special prayers at St Thomas Delph, Holy Trinity Dobcross and St Anne, Lydgate. Following that he visited a parishioner in their home for a chat and prayers.

A community reception was held at the Parish Hall of Christ Church, Friezland. Around 100 members of the local community and churches enjoyed light refreshments and the chance to chat with Bishop Nigel. Guests then attended a Pilgrimage service at Christ Church, Friezland.

On the second day of the Saddleworth pilgrimage visit Bishop Nigel said special prayers at Kiln Green Mission Church and at St Chad, Uppermill. Following the prayers the Bishop did a home communion.

Around 120 members of the local community attended a community reception at the Parish Centre, Lee Street, Uppermill. Guests then attended a Pilgrimage service at St Mary's, Greenfield.

Photos from this Run the race Bishop's pilgrimage

At both pilgrimage services Bishop Nigel handed the Commonwealth Games Baton to a selection of young people from each of the parishes. During the pilgrimage services each parish did a presentation about its hopes, dreams and history. Rev Brandes added: "There was a very good response to Bishop Nigel's invitation for people to come forward for a blessing and anointing. Lots of people came forward and they all seemed to find it very moving."



On reflection Rev Brandes said: "I think people thought it was an important time and they thought it was a profound time. They appreciated the Bishop visiting each of the churches and praying in each of the churches. They felt moved by what he had to say and animated by what he had to say. They thought it was a catalyst for the Saddleworth team. People appreciated that it helped us grow together as a team. It was a