On Ash Wednesday (18 February), Christians from around the region are invited to join in a procession through Leeds City Centre waving banners and flags to celebrate our diverse society.
The Revd Clive Barrett, of West Yorkshire Ecumenical Council, says, “Every year, senior Church leaders of the region come together on Ash Wednesday in common witness for a shared social concern. This year, mindful of the forthcoming election campaign, they wish to make a public stand in support of the diversity of people in our churches and region. There’s a lot of negativity at the moment - especially from politicians - towards different groups of people, but Christians see everyone made in God’s image. So we’re hoping for a marvellous, colourful public witness that rejoices in our diversity and our unity in Christ.
“As it’s half term, we hope as many people as possible, including children, will turn out. Please bring church banners, national flags, processional crosses – whatever your tradition and background.”
The procession begins at 1pm at St John, New Briggate and moves along Briggate to the Trinity Shopping Centre where a banner of flags will be unfurled. It ends at 2pm after prayers in Holy Trinity Church, Boar Lane.