First impressions

Steve sends us his first impressions and experience of his first weekend on placement:

It was with slight nervousness that I traveled from Barrow to Lancaster on Saturday morning. I think we are all somewhat nervous at new experiences and challenges. There was no need for me to be nervous. Fr Andrew met me and the kettle was immediately boiled for a much needed coffee with Fr Andrew and Fr Stephen then we were off to the Cathedral for Benediction and prayer for the parish. What a lovely way to start my visit, sat with the Lord. There was also the opportunity afterwards to meet those present and I was made to feel very welcome, as I was throughout the weekend.

Adoration at the Cathedral

Lunch was next and then Fr Stephen gave me a whistle stop tour of the parish in his car. I can remember most of what we looked at, but will I be able to find my way round? I have some serious doubts. Note to self: SATNAV must come with me next week.

I next attended the 6:30 mass at the Cathedral, again with the opportunity to meet parishioners afterwards. Day 1 of my placement finished and I have to admit that my nerves were easing and I was really starting to enjoy the experience.

Sunday morning I was up and off to mass with Fr Andrew at St Thomas More. A lovely mass, with lots of young families was completed with tea, coffee, biscuits and toast! I have never had toast after mass. Must mention it to the parish priest in Barrow!!

Cathedral Baptistery

Not much time then to get back to St Peter’s for the end of the 10:30 mass and again the opportunity to meet more people, this time at the back of church and then in the centre for refreshments. The warmness of everyone I met over the weekend was amazing! Thankyou all so much.  

Next I had the wonderful opportunity of attending a Christening which Fr Stephen was presiding over. Christenings are always very special, but just a few people present in the beautiful Cathedral made it very special.

I then had a few hours to myself before going to the Rosary, Vespers sung and Benediction in church. I have a very special devotion to the rosary. I have only witnessed Vespers being sung a few times and it always seems a beautiful way to pray.

I was given the opportunity next of going into the bell tower. This was so exciting for me! I had never been able to do this kind of thing before and jumped at the chance. Lots and lots of steps (60 I am told, although I am sure it is more like 600!!) later and there I was in the bell tower struggling to get my breath, but still excited. I can’t say I really understood all that went on, but it was a completely new experience for me (and, yes, I did get to ring a bell!!) 

A view from the Cathedral Tower
 with Jim Wood Cathedral's Permanent Deacon

Then it was down the 60 steps again and into 6:30 mass, again with the opportunity to meet parishioners afterwards, then in my car and off home again.

I found the weekend so very, very enjoyable and now look back on my nerves with a smile on my face. The warmth of everyone over the whole 2 days was fantastic and I am looking forward so much to my next four weekends!