MUCH has happened since the Lord Bishop of Ripon consecrated the Parish Church of St Mary’s, Burley-in-Wharfedale on 19th June 1843, and this last weekend parish members and friends celebrated its 175th birthday in style.

On Saturday it was standing room only at the Queens Hall as many from the community came together for a family Ceilidh with food and spirited dancing. Music was provided by Chris Nelson’s ‘Northern Comfort’, folk-rock, English country dance band. Participants were kept on their feet with foot-stomping, toe-tapping music, with clear instructions given at the start of each new dance. Children as young as three were dancing alongside those well into their 80s.

On Sunday, the Church, with bunting flying. welcomed the Bishop of Leeds, The Rt Revd Nick Baines. The Choir processed into the Church with scout leaders, Mother’s Union representatives and clergy. Inside, the 250 people attending filled the church, giving the celebration service a very special quality, with rousing hymns, choruses and vocal responses. Both the Church choir and the Burley and Woodhead School choir gave memorable, uplifting, and much appreciated performances.

Bishop Nick delivered an inspiring and interesting sermon, with many amusing and jocular references, especially to The World Cup. He invited the congregation to consider how we are all invited on a journey with Jesus and how he chooses ordinary disciples to express his extraordinary love for the world.

The Revd Alastair Kirk, the vicar of Burley, said the service had been a joy-filled, grace-endowed event which was a blessing to all who came to be a part of it. He expressed his hope that the Church would be an Oasis of refreshment in our spiritually parched land.

After the service, Bishop Nick cut the St Mary’s birthday cake, before all enjoyed a barbecue in the glorious sunshine, the children bouncing in the shade of the bouncy castle! This weekend certainly showed that St Mary’s is doing very well for its 175 years of age. May it bless the Parish of Burley for many years to come.

To further commemorate the 175 years the Vicar, Alastair, is asking the community to search through their photo albums and wardrobes for items from the past connected to the church as there will be a display of memorabilia in church during Burley Festival Week August 18 to 27. A wedding dress has already been offered. If you have an item to add to the display ring the Parish Centre 01943 864406.