Sunday in York

Last night (this morning) the pub next door went till after 3. Am definitely not a city girl.
We roused ourselves to attend the 11.30am service at the Minster. Each service is so different. Evensong on Friday was all sung by the choir - we were really spectators. Yesterday's Holy Communion was all readings (no music at all), apart from the actual communion. This morning we went to what we thought was a traditional Sunday service - we were early enough to be shepherded in to seats in the traditional stalls, what a privilege. The service again was all choir and readings, apart from 1 hymn at the end. Very reverent, but by now I am wanting to sing my heart out!

After church we had a good walk around York - the last weekend before Christmas and it seems everyone is out on the streets looking for that bargain. There are many stressed people, especially parents. We loved walking arm in arm, just taking time to soak it all up. The medieval character of York is hard to describe.

Exploring York

Stopped at another old pub for lunch at about 3pm. Paul did the roast pork thing, I was content with salmon, and this time I made the right choice, it was delicious! We lingered over our food and the fire until 4.30.

On our way home we again passed the Minster (hard not to as we are staying next door!) and remembered that the Christmas Carol service was on. We were lucky enough to get a seat, and joined with 4500 others to share readings, sing carols at the top of our voices (at last!) and admire the combined choir. At the end the procession of archbishop, bishops, priests, choir and goodness knows who else came right past us, many carrying huge tapestry banners or candles. It overwhelmed me, I'm not sure why, but the tradition built and revered, whether rightly or wrongly, is just so amazing.

It was freezing outside! Even with all our layers the wind cut through, and although I relish getting out in the elements I was pleased we are only staying next door!
Tonight all the shops are shut, I sincerely hope the pub is too, and that we will be able to get to sleep tonight instead of early tomorrow!

 

It has been a day of full emotions. I have loved this time together with Paul. We never run out of things to talk about - and yes, he does his share! So good to be together like this. And 4 church services in 3 days - all so very different to our usual custom, but there to take what we like from it, and to be free to meditate on the season and what it means for us.
Feeling so grateful tonight.