On Sunday afternoon (30 April 1978) passing motorists looked intently at a procession moving along the A36. It was not a political march, nor was it protesting against anything. On the contrary, it was affirming the goodness of this world and its Maker.
This Rogation procession had started from St. Aldhelm’s Church, Bishopstrow. At the Mill prayers were said for sailors and fisherman and the waters were blessed.
At various points on the route the Rector blessed crops, cattle and gardens. At the village prayers were offered for community life and friendship.
About fifty people sat down to a good tea in the village hall before the last outside halt at the churchyard. Here we gave thanks for St. Aldhelm who brought Christianity to these parts and for all those who established the village and kept the Church’s witness alive.
The procession was led by crucifer Paul Gilbert and banner-bearers David Plank and David Ball.
The hymns were accompanied on the trumpet by Miss Marcia Northeast and Miss Joy Ries.