Nearly 200 people gathered on Market Hill in Sudbury for an open-air service to mark Good Friday 2009. The scudding clouds, a slight nip in the breeze and an overcast sky failed to diminish the spirit. Revd Jamie Allen, Vicar of St Andrew’s Church, Great Cornard, leading the service began with the poignant question – “What are we doing here?” – before inviting the faithful gathered and passers-by to hear the true and wonderful story of Jesus who suffered and died on this day long ago before His resurrection on Easter Day. The moving story was narrated using relevant passages from the Bible, placards depicting pictures such as Pilate washing his hands to absolve himself of his guilt, and hymns and prayers. A mixed choir of young and older led the singing.

The public event – both solemn and joyous – has grown in numbers over the years to become a feature of life in Sudbury, the market town birthplace of Gainsborough. Asked what Easter means, Rachel Page, 17, who took part in the service, said: “It’s not about Easter eggs. It’s about remembering God.” Mary Lou Mayhew, 16, who is not a church-goer, commented: “I don’t know about church”, but had come along to listen and sing. For Dorothy, of Sudbury Baptist Church, Easter means “Jesus is Risen”. The hour-long service – with free hot cross buns – closed with a blessing and the words of the plaintive hymn “When I survey the wondrous Cross on which the Prince of Glory died; my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride” echoing around the market square and drowning out the noise of traffic. Christ’s love so amazing, so divine demands our souls, lives and all. A Blessed Easter to all our readers.

Girl holding poster