The Solace session runs at North Lynn Church: an accessible Pilates activity followed by a time of chat and prayer over coffee and biscuits offers a soulful solution to the stresses of life. The church is running as a partnership with the Methodists and local vicar, The Revd Becca Rogers lives right next door in the heart of the housing estate.
The chaplains and senior staff team shared a time of prayer with the Bishop in the Sacred Space at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King’s Lynn. They talked about the issues they face on a daily basis and the service they offer for those who are ill or in need of emotional and spiritual support in the hospital community.
Viewing the plans for the conversion of a church bungalow into a community cafe and space for mental health support at St Faith’s Church Gaywood LEP, Bishop Graham said: “An incredible story of how, out of deep personal sadness, this vision will bring hope and healing for those living with the challenges of mental ill-health.”
Lucy McKitterick gave the Bishop a guided tour of the King’s Lynn Winter Night Shelter and some of the volunteers, trustees and representatives from the local Foodbank and Christian’s Against Poverty debt advice projects all discussed issues affecting those they support in the area. The impact of the universal credit system vividly illustrated by one person’s own story.
A walk through King’s Lynn streets onto Whitefriars Church of England Primary Academy and a lively school assembly followed. A strong Christian theme of “hope” was shared and the children sang enthusiastically! Bishop Graham asked one pupil, Mia, to help him explain a Bishop’s role and what the mitre, crosier, pectoral cross and ring symbolised.
A drop-in to a Dementia Cafe back at Gaywood enabled some time to sit and chat over cups of tea and cake. The quiet, gentle support offered to all around the table was evident.
An outside afternoon tea with the team from Gayton, Grimston and Massingham Benefice offered an opportunity for contrasting tales of rural ministry. Clergy and laypeople shared the joys and challenges with their new Bishop.
The day was rounded off with the celebration of an evening eucharist in the Rectory Garden of Rural Dean, the Revd Canon James Nash.