Bishop and donkeys led procession to Barton Turf
A crowd followed the Bishop of Norwich and two donkeys as they walked from Neatishead to Barton Turf to celebrate Palm Sunday.
The two donkeys, Jenny and her son Charlie, were joined by the The Bishop of Norwich and along with 75 adults and 14 children, as they journeyed from Neatishead to Barton Turf church.
The walk was followed by an all-age communion service led by Bishop Graham which included a game of pin the tail on the donkey and a reminder of Christ’s humility in choosing to enter Jerusalem on a donkey.
Rev Ben Bradshaw, vicar of the Benefice of St Benedict reported: “'Palm Sunday was a fantastic day for the whole benefice. It was wonderful to have the bishop with us and to have some donkeys in attendance really brought the day to life. The children were thrilled to meet the donkeys and they enjoyed taking part in the bishop's competition to see which side of the church could shout 'Hosanna' the loudest.
“Animals are very welcome in all the churches across the benefice and we will even be having a special pet service on Sunday April 28 at 4pm in Horning church. All are welcome to attend and to bring their pets along. Children who do not have a pet can always bring their favourite teddy along to the service instead.”
Photo above of Bishop Graham Usher and donkeys Jenny and Charlie, and right of Bishop Graham at Barton Turf Church, courtesy of Rev Ben Bradshaw
Anna Heydon, 26/03/2024