Shining light in the darkness was the theme of the service to celebrate the end of the restoration of St John’s Church, Dewsbury Moor on Saturday.
Over 300 people visited during the day for a series of events to mark the end of the restoration work to the ceiling which had been damaged due to water ingress over many years.
The vicar, the Revd Kathy Robertson, part of the Dewsbury Team Parish, said that church members were thrilled by the numbers of people who visited and created a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the day.
She said: "It all started with St John’s School Choir who reminded us that in the light of the bad news it is Love that makes the world go round. A message that was reinforced by members of Kumon Y'all, pictured left, who gave a message of peace and friendship encouraging us that - by overcoming small differences, we can work together, live together and tackle problems together, regardless of: Our nationality Our locality Our gender Our age Our faith Or our ethnicity, with their final words being So Kumon y’ all let’s get together and live a better life."
The day was also supported by with organ recitals from Stephen Parker and Malcolm Spinks, the Dewsbury Team Parish Hand Bell Ringers, Batley Musica saxophone group, Westborough Church Singing for Fun Group, and Geometric Art by Saba Rafit along with tours of the church and graveyard.
Said Revd Kathy Robertson: "It was a wonderful celebration attended by over 300 people over the day’.
The celebrations continued on Sunday the 12th with a Communion Service attended by the Mayoress and her Consul, Christine and Robert Iredale.
The project has been funded by a grant of over £120,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to preserve the heritage and history of the local area.
If you would like to visit the church services are 10.30am every Sunday; wmonthly coffee morning on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Everyone welcome. Next coffee morning is July 15th.
For further information please see The Dewsbury Minster web site www.dewsburyminster.org.uk