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Bishop to sail historic wherry for Broads outreach
Bishop to sail historic wherry for Broads outreach
Churches from the Waterside Benefice are preparing to launch an imaginative new outreach, taking the Christian message to the waterways of the Norfolk Broads aboard the historic wherry Albion
The two-day event, titled ‘Flow – Bringing Ministry to the Broads’, is being led by the churches of Catfield, Ludham and Potter Heigham, and will see a vibrant programme of riverside celebrations unfold at several Broads staithes
Rev. Gary Noyes, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice, will be joined by The Bishop of Thetford, Rt Rev Ian Bishop, who will travel aboard Albion as it makes stops at Potter Heigham, How Hill and Ranworth
The outreach will take place on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June, and is designed to combine accessible worship with a wide range of family-friendly activities. Each stop will feature music, crafts, games, puppetry, storytelling, face-painting, origami, quizzes, refreshments and treasure-hunting. Visitors can even try ringing hand bells. refreshments, and quiet areas for reflection. There will be a songs of praise style service at each stop with a short message from the Bishop
Bishop Ian expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying: “The good news is meant to be a joy to share and I’m really looking forward to being part of this initiative, sharing our faith whilst journeying the waterways of the Broads. I know the weekend will be pure joy”
“The idea is to actively attract those who might not enter a church for a regular worship service,” explains Diana Rackham, a member of the benefice’s Scratch Band, who will provide the music for the weekend
The musical offering will include a specially composed tune entitled ‘Albion’, written in honour of the historic wherry and performed by the Scratch Band
The wherry Albion, built in 1898 and preserved by the Norfolk Wherry Trust, is the last of her kind still available for public sailing and is listed on the UK National Historic Ships Register. Visitors will have the opportunity to step aboard and learn more about this cherished vessel’s history and legacy
Event Schedule:
Saturday 14 June
Potter Heigham: 10am – 1pm
How Hill: 4pm – 6pm
Sunday 15 June
Communion Service at How Hill: 8am
Ranworth: 12pm – 2pm
Everyone is warmly invited to come along, join in the fun, and experience a unique celebration of faith, community and Norfolk’s rich maritime heritage
Photo of the Albion, courtesy of Norfolk Wherry Trust
Do you have a news story about yourself, church, or organisation; or forthcoming event relating to Christians or a church in Great Yarmouth or surrounding district?
If so, email office@networkyarmouth.co.uk with details and, if possible, a suitable picture(s)
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Anna Heydon, 28/05/2025
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