Archbishop of York’s visit to include ‘Light Party’ in Southwell Minster

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu will be joining children in a Light Show Party at Southwell Minster when he spends two days visiting people and projects around Nottinghamshire in October 2011.

The Archbishop’s visit, which is being coordinated by the Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham, will begin on Monday 31st October at Staythorpe Power Station. During the first day, Dr Sentamu will meet church and farming communities and visit a youth employment project, run by the homelessness charity Framework, in Sutton-in-Ashfield.  A highlight of the programme will be a special service and activity event on the Monday evening, called ‘Shine the Light’, with hundreds of children and young people in Nottinghamshire’s ancient cathedral.

Children’s Ministry Adviser, Nick Harding, said: “The evening will have a ‘come and go as you like’ feel, with the focus being a light show and act of worship at 6.30pm. This event is designed for all ages – children, young people, families, individuals – there will be something for everyone!  There’s no need to book, and the event is free, so now’s the time to think about bringing your youth group, children’s groups, uniformed organisations, and everyone else.” Nick explained that there will be activities and crafts, as well as refreshments available.

Following the Light event, the Archbishop will join the High Sheriff of Nottingham, Sir John Peace and other guests for a dinner in the Great Hall at Southwell where the focus will be on the Mayor’s chosen charities and the Archbishop of York’s Southwell Palace Project.

On Tuesday 1st November the Archbishop will meet with city and county leaders, enjoy a visit to Nottingham Trent University and join in an older person’s lunch club in the city before visiting an asylum seekers’ project run by the Arimathea Trust.

More details on the visit with photo opportunities will be available in the coming weeks.