Bishop Paul Joins Bulwell St Mary’s for Ash Wednesday Worship
On Wednesday, 5th March, children, staff and regular worship leaders from St Mary’s church, Bulwell, Fr Andrew Fisher and the Revd. Bob Stephens, warmly welcomed Bishop Paul to a very memorable Ash Wednesday Collective Worship.
Headteacher Mrs. Burge introduced Bishop Paul, who captivated the children with insights into his role, comparing it to a Headteacher’s responsibility of sharing God’s love and supporting churches and schools. He also explained the symbolism of his Mitre before handing over to Fr Andrew, the Bulwell Parish Priest and school governor.
Father Andrew, like Reverend Bob, is a familiar visitor to the school. Engaging the children with a fun pancake discussion, he used magic tricks to explain Ash Wednesday’s message of admitting mistakes and seeking forgiveness. He described the tradition of receiving an ash cross on the forehead.
For added fun, he invited Rev Bob and Bishop Paul to a pancake-flipping contest, which Rev Bob won with 13 flips, while Bishop Paul’s pancake mostly hit the floor!
The session ended with an optional ash cross blessing, a closing prayer by Year 6 pupils Elliana and Riley, and Bishop Paul offering prayers and a special blessing for a teacher expecting a baby in July.
