There have been banners around town for the annual Abingdon Alpha Courses

There was an introductory meeting with a free meal at the Spice Valley Restaurant this evening. An invited speaker told people how his life had been turned around after he went to an Alpha course, and found out about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.

Alpha is a ten week introduction to the Christian Faith. Each week there is a talk at the start and then a discussion.

133 people were there for the launch event – and there is room for more at any of the venues.

This morning worshippers and clergy from various Abingdon churches followed a cross down the precinct to mark Good Friday, one of the most important days in the Christian Calendar – the day when Jesus had to carry his own cross and to be crucified.

There was a minute or two of solemn silence on the Market Place before the parade followed the cross to St Nicolas Church for a service or hymns, prayers, and reflections.

Thanks to Julia for letting me know that St Nicolas Church (in the Market Place) are proposing to swap the pews for flexible seating …

So now is the time for the people of Abingdon to say whether they agree or not.

The church has been at the centre of life in the town for 850 years. Church members want to make it more available for use by the community, while maintaining its primary function as a Christian church. Details of the proposed changes and a questionnaire for comments can be found in the church or on the website (www.stnicolasofabingdon.org.uk)

The church is normally open on weekdays from 10-1.00 so please go in to discuss the ideas over a cup of coffee, or phone 01235 536343.

St Nicolas Church was also open this evening for the ABCD Film Club Annual Silent Classic. This year it was Sparrows starring Mary Pickford from 1926 – accompanied on piano by Andrew Youdell.