The Bishop of Durham, the Rt Rev. Paul Butler and the Bishop of Jarrow, the Rt Rev. Sarah Clark, embarked on a prayer walk throughout Shildon and surrounding areas on Friday 27 May.
Rev. Carol Harris of St John’s Church, Shildon, who took part in the walk said: “The day went really well. The Bishops’ walking party arrived at Shildon Alive for lunch having walked from Newton Aycliffe.
“They had a lunch of rescued broth and bread and Paula, Shildon Alive’s project leader, gave a presentation about what Shildon Alive has done in the last year and future plans.
“The meal gave the bishops chance to chat to staff and volunteers over lunch. After lunch they visited St John’s School where they met the whole school in the hall. The children sang beautifully for the bishops and they both talked about who they were and what they did, and Bishop Paul told a story.
“Afterwards they were met by various members of the church and community as they walked up the street to the park. They were joined by members of Shildon Town Council, who talked about the work of the council and took them around the park.
“From there, the party walked to Locomotion where they were welcomed at the museum by senior curator, Antony Couls.
“They were given a very informative and interesting tour of the museum by one of the volunteer guides Caroline. From the Locomotion, the party walked to Cape to Cairo, the building which was previously the Masons Arms and enjoyed a beautiful evening meal.
Part of the Bishops’ prayer walk on the Saturday involved walking through Eldon Lane and having a buffet lunch at the Heritage Café where they were thrilled to meet a range of local residents.
“It was a lovely lunch,” said Rev. Carol, “and the bishops were pleased to have a chance to chat with various members of the community.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
