The Severn Bore brings crowds of surfers and spectators to the Gloucestershire village of Minsterworth, often attracting the attention of the national media. The worshipping community in the village have seized on this chance to show visitors a Christian welcome and to remind them that the natural beauty they are coming to see is a gift from our creator God.
Each year, St Peter’s Church opens its doors to welcome people in for food and a warm space to rest, with members of the local worshipping community helping with serving and stewardship.
The village of Minsterworth in the Diocese of Gloucester is known for being the location of the Severn Bore, a large surge wave in the River Severn estuary, where the tidal range reaches as much as 50 feet, the second highest in the world. St Peter’s in Minsterworth plays a pivotal role in the event by opening its doors and grounds to the hundreds of visitors that arrive to view the ‘natural spectacle’. The event attracts people from around the world, particularly surfers who bring their boards to ride the waves through the picturesque Cotswolds landscape.
This year, the Bore happened during the mornings of 11, 12 and 13 March. St Peter’s Church provided car parking and offered food and refreshments, and many visitors dropped into the open church after seeing the spectacle outside.
The Churchwardens and PCC members of Minsterworth Church helped to organise the welcome to visitors, who came from near and far to see the Bore. Local media also came to capture the event to interview members of the community and spoke to Priest in Charge of the Highnam Benefice and Minsterworth Parish, the Revd Heather de Gruyther.
Heather says, “The Severn Bore is a huge part of village life and draws people from all over the world to our corner of Gloucestershire. It’s one of our local natural spectacles that can’t help but point to the glory of our creator God. In terms of the church, I’d like to show gratitude for the income of donations from visitors but also really celebrate the offer of hospitality from many of the church members who give so much time to this riverbank ministry.
“Welcome is a big part of who we are as church, so it was lovely to have so many people enjoying their food and chatting together. The Bore is what it means to be Minsterworth and every year visitors leave messages of thanks in our visitors book and donations. The donations for the refreshments and car parking over the three days raised just over £700, which is hugely significant to a small church like ours. The worshipping community has certainly embraced what the Severn Bore means to our village with all the support they offer – it wouldn’t be possible without them.”
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