February 2023

At St Mary’s Blidwoth, Candlemas is celebrated with the Rocking Ceremony – a tradition that is thought to be unique to the village. The Rocking Ceremony was typical in churches dedicated to St Mary of the Purification all over Europe at one time, but it is believed that Blidworth’s church is the only one in the UK still dedicated to St Mary of the Purification and the only church anywhere continuing with this custom.

In a Start the Day message for the first Friday in February, Bishop Paul and Sarah read from Psalm 34 and speak about how to renew your confidence in God especially when you feel surrounded by many difficulties: ‘Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.’ Bishops Paul also mentions the invitation to join in the Diocesan Day of Prayer next Thursday, especially with Evensong in the Minster at 5.30pm and

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