Exploring the Passion

The centrepiece of this was the floor of the church being dominated by a huge full-size cross of rough hewn wood, complete with nails and a crown of thorns.

Television monitors and a large projected video screen showed images of the Passion of Christ'.

A smaller cross was also provided, on which visitors were invited, and indeed did nail on prayers and prayer requests.

To one side there was a room of peace, where one could sit, contemplate and pray. The darkened room was lit by an array of candles in the shape of a heart.

This touching experience culminated in the Good Friday evening service, where participants sat around the huge cross, reflected, sang and partook of Holy Communion to celebrate the sacrifice of our saviour Jesus.

Easter Sunday, we joined with Christians from all over Newport at what has become the annual Sunrise Service', at 6am, at the Christchurch viewpoint.

It was bitterly cold, but after a lovely time of praise, we all departed back to our churches for the traditional egg and bacon butty rolls for breakfast.

The 10.30am celebration family service was led by the Rev Ken Payne. The many children attending partook in the ever-popular Easter Egg Hunt', followed by soft drinks, tea and coffee in the church coffee bar, the Bridge'.

To round off the day, a traditional 6pm Easter service was held, which was led by Mrs Kitt Bevan, a fitting end to a memorable week.

by David Hall