TURNING CATHEDRALS INTO AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

York Minster

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If prizes were given for the best stamp in my Pilgrim Passport, then York Minster would be up there at the top end. St Peter’s keys are on the stamp as Dorothy and I learnt that The Minster is The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York.

As we are walking between York Minster and Ripon Cathedral, for Christian Aid in May we decided to combine a reccy walk with a Cathedral visit. We walked from a layby near the Mercure Hotel which Dorothy nostalgically recalled as a hospital from her NHS Admin Days. Quick word of advice here that it is not possible to use the Park and Ride Facilities unless one is cycling or using the bus. Shank’s Pony does not count!

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Although flat I regretted not bringing my binoculars as the flooded fields seemed a haven for birds. The water only forced one slight diversion and we were soon on the paved, but deceptively treacherous due to the mud way along the river.

Due to the freezing weather your correspondent did not do a full assessment of facilities at York but enjoyed a Communion Service whilst Dorothy, Scout and Kit sat outside.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Canon Timothy Goode was taking the service, insisted on meeting everyone, and gave generously of his time.

 

                                                                                         We walked round to a dog friendly cafe and discussed Jeel, the conflict in Gaza and the                                                                                                                         role of the Minster.

                                                                                         The Minster is a World Heritage Site as well as the seat of the Archbishop of York. It                                                                                                                               employs over 230 staff and needs constant attention most easily witnessed by the                                                                                                                                 stone masons working outside. They charge to come in, having no public funding, but                                                                                                                              not for a service or those who live in York.

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                                                                                          The Dean, we were told, has excellent links with East Jerusalem and Canon Goode                                                                                                                                  promised that he would mention Jeel Scholarship Fund to their community committee.

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                                                                                           We will be returning to York for our Christian Aid walk in May but now for the social niceties…

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                                                                                          There is no cafe but there are toilets.