St Mary’s Thornbury welcomed around 70 children from Castle Secondary School who took part in the school’s Pride March on 22 June.
During what was one of the warmest weeks of the year, the churchyard provided cool shade where the young people could pause and refresh themselves. Volunteers from St Mary’s were pleased to offer soft drinks, rainbow doughnuts and colourful macaroons before the group continued on their journey.
The Revd Joy Ludlow, Priest-in-charge of the Benefice of Thornbury and Oldbury with Shepperdine, took the opportunity to thank everyone taking part for the care, kindness and courage they show in helping to make the world a better place.
St Mary’s bellringers also marked the occasion by ringing a quarter peal for Pride.
“Jesus said the kingdom of heaven belongs to children,” said Joy. “If we long to become a younger, more diverse Church, those hopes are inseparable. Our young people reveal God’s glorious creativity and colour, inviting us to become more fully the welcoming Church we are called to be.”
Have you seen the Diocese of Gloucester Inclusive Communities Facebook page? It’s recently been set up as a place to promote all kinds of inclusive community in the Diocese of Gloucester. Do join the conversation.
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