Dazzling Days

In our lifetime, there have some pretty spectacular, dazzling days.

From the thrill of getting engaged or married; bringing home our new-born babies, or watching that first/second/third Nativity play, with our little boys playing a sheep, a shepherd or an angel; buying our first and second house; travelling the world or welcoming home our sons who have travelled the world; or celebrating the success of our sons’ business acumen, educational achievement or culinary expertise. All very, very dazzling days.

And yesterday was such another. The ordination at the Coventry Cathedral of my beautiful god-daughter, Liz. What an experience. We were all so proud.

Liz has worked so hard over the years to get to this day. She has suffered hardship along the way but, despite that, she has never wavered. She has faced her trials and tribulations with strength and humility, very determined to do what is right. And the event yesterday felt so right.

And I was blessed enough to not only be invited to the service with the Cross family, but Liz asked me to be ‘Stole Bearer’, too. Essentially, someone to carry her stole and drape it over her when the moment came.

The Bishop decreed that Liz was ordained. Stole Bearer to the fore.

What an honour and privilege.

Here’s a few photos of the amazing occasion: first, the whole clergy at the end of the service in the vast Cathedral, those stained glass windows shining brilliantly in the sunlight.

Then, with the Old Cathedral in the background, Lizzie with Bishop Sophie:

A lovely photo with the family: Pete and Dawn, Lucy and Jack.

…..and finally one of her with her godmothers (one of whom is grinning like a Cheshire cat…..).

Take care everyone. God bless.