Day 15: Celebration Day in Lincoln
Friday evening there were too many pilgrims to all sit and eat in the main hall, so some overflowed into the atrium - good natural light from the domed glass roof above, and visible from the staircase that worked its way round 3 sides.
Saturday morning - a slow start for most. Sue's Pilgrim Bear had made friends with Billy Bear who lives at the school. This time, instead of having tales to tell of places he had visited, Billy will be able to tell of all the pilgrims who came to visit him.
For some it was time to leave us.
Others made their way into the city. In the older upper city there are many interesting buildings - the Noman House for example...
From Castle Square the towers of the Cathedral are visible
... as is the Castle itself
Several pilgrims lunched at this pub, also within sight of the cathedral.
Further down Steep Hill is this, the Jew's House.
If you go down Steep Hill (to the newer lower city) you have to climb back up - together with your purchases from the off licence for this evening's celebration.
On the way back, one could rest outside the cathedral - and several did as a group gathered on the wall.
It gave a chance to look at the detail of the stonework. (Others went inside the cathedral earlier, but none of our photographers!)
It seems the Lincoln Imp has materialised beside Clare and is trying to steal her ice cream.
Back at the hall, preparations were soon under way for our celebration - a joint Eucharist followed by a meal. Some made sure they got a vantage point to record the goings on.
The music for the evening was led by Table 3.
But the liturgy was joined in enthusiastically around the room - and isn't it good to have Edna with us again.
The gospel reading was that where some of Jesus' disciples found his demands too tough and went their own way. The youngsters illustrated this with Jonny being the day route planner who had to reroute because a bridge had been washed away. Some abandoned him, putting their trust in technology (Bridget and the GPS), staying in the pub for another pint (Mike) or simply saying "You must be joking!" (Rosie)...
... but Ola and Marta put on their waterproofs and followed faithfully.
Our liturgy continued, with Helen showing the rest of us how to be demonstrative in prayer.
The Eucharist was celebrated by Frs David and Chris; the hangings behind the altar double as towels.
Mary and Milly get into the swing as we end with Walk in the Light.
Show a bit of leg, girls!
Is it all too much for Patrick?
During the meal, appropriate music was played, with the usual suspects joining in.
Now when some percussion is needed...
No, that wasn't a piece of modern art in the middle of the table, just Patrick's tankard being put to good use.
After the meal, awards were made - each pilgrim was called forward and given a card as a memento by Sue. David was obviously pleased with his.
Joan perhaps was less sure about a kiss from Sue - she wanted Fred.
In her turn, Helen raised a large cheer.
Special gifts were given to many of those who make the pilgrimage tick. Julia and Maurice bring us early morning tea.
Clare and Norma have provided support transport
Tineke has masterminded the filling of rolls for lunch - but used the moment to announce her resignation (groan...)
Peter has looked after the liturgy this year - next year it will be the whole pilgrimage.
Frances also had gifts for people who'd helped her - John got PROPER crisps.
Following the meal some sat and chatted, many joined in a sing song. Joan was up on her feet and dancing.
The music goes on
We had everyone on the floor for Father Abraham and Rise and Shine
... but there was a strange man at the window.
Then, at the stroke of midnight, our banquetting hall had to revert to a bedroom. Frenzied activity saw the tables cleared and dismantled, the room tidied, and beds rolled out. And so to bed for most - an early start tomorrow to be sure we're ready for the coach (though some retired to the boot store to play cards and prepare websites). Good morning all!