Well God certainly blessed Liverpool on Saturday 14th June for its Big Street Party along Hope Street. The weather was wonderful; thousands joined in with the huge & colourful Pageant; the sound of Gospel artists rocked the streets; kids & youth zones were full of exciting activities; lots of different staging featured rappers, bands, choirs and acoustics; and the front of the Metropolitan Cathedral was alive with dancing all day.

I was privileged to have been at the front of the pageant procession with St Philemon’s Church, Toxteth, who led the way with their Baptismal theme and a large white dove. As we walked and sang our way around the streets of Liverpool, I often glanced behind us wondering how many people of all ages had joined this wonderful witness of all denominations from around the North West. As St Philemon’s finished the procession at the top of Mount Street I climbed the famous stack of suitcases to look down at the rest of the pageant. I was amazed to see so many people in so many costumes carrying so many banners/props that I nearly forgot to take some photographs to share with you all!

In Hope Street and at both cathedrals were stalls, stages, food and fellowship for all. Activities included street artists, dancing, live DJ’s, a climbing wall, a football cage and so much to do and watch it could easily have run over 2 days! At each cathedral in the evening there was a finale concert, enjoyable for those who like classical but also SPACE for youth.

The United Walk of Hope was at the heart of the day’s festivities as a symbolic walk of unity between the two cathedrals. Civic, church, business and voluntary organisation leaders made a statement of unity which concluded at a stage mid Hope Street, where Bishop James Jones led a short thanksgiving celebration with participants including Andrew Lancel (star of The Bill TV programme), Cathy Tyson (Liverpool born actress), and the Deans of both cathedrals. Cathy Tyson’s personal thoughts on HOPE, for the city and the world, touched the hearts of many Liverpudlians listening.

Thank you so much to the organisers for such a successful and enjoyable day. It was hard to leave the festivities and go home but I felt alive for the Lord and so happy that I could join everyone for this very special day.

Photos

Posted on Sunday, June 15th, 2008 in Activities, Worship.