Easter was a very busy time in the church, as you would expect. But this year was more so with the introduction of two Easter celebrations.
As in the past, we had a quiet and reflective Good Friday service with readings, poetry, hymns and music and silence. Though Good Friday services are not well attended, it’s often said that there is no Easter without Good Friday – each is one side of the same coin.
Easter Sunday at Camber church at 10.30 was well attended and the congregation went away with a posey and a chocolate cream egg.
The first new service in the parish was the Easter Liturgy on Saturday night at East Guldeford. It’s the first celebration of Easter and started with a service of light which included the lighting of a small bonfire and the Easter Candle, a symbol of the Risen Jesus.
Our preacher (Tina Beattie) mentioned Nick Cave’s reference to a “Wild God” and playing with fire is always going to be wild and unpredictable.
Rev’d Michael (pictured lighting the candle) and I almost set ourselves alight. We followed with the vigil, a kind of a storytelling by a campfire. It ended with renewing of our baptismal vow.
The music (Martin Bruce and Fourscore) was divine, the candlelight atmosphere and setting was magical and mysterious, and everyone played their spoken parts very well. The seating was tight and a tad uncomfortable (we expected 15 people, over 30 came).
A big thanks to Annie and Richard who organised the decorations and the pyrotechnics. I think we’ll do it again next year.
Then, on Sunday we took to the beach for a sunrise service. The previous night we played with fire. On Sunday morning we fought against the cold wind and for the most part managed to hold everything down.
In moments of silence, we listened to the roar of the sea. It was very moving to be out in the elements greeting the risen sun. Did we see Jesus the risen son? In a slanted way, I guess. Did we see the rising sun? No, it hid behind the clouds, but we felt its presence. Will we do it again next year? I hope we do.
Not counting the refuse collectors (a WTF moment for them no doubt), we were again over 30 people from across the Rye/Camber area. After the service, many went over to the church for hot cross buns and coffee/tea.
