The ordination of Revd Jonnie Hill, and his induction to the Missional Partnership, took place at Wilmslow URC on 17th July. Covid safety considerations meant that the congregation was strictly limited, although three representatives from Altrincham URC were able to attend – please see Jenny’s account below. However, more of us were able to view the service on YouTube, either at home or, as you can see above, sharing it together at Trinity Hale.
Jonnie’s Ordination Weekend
Megan (as the Missional Partnership representative for Altrincham URC), Steve and I (as members of Jonnie’s Support Group) were delighted to be invited to Jonnie’s Ordination at Wilmslow URC at short notice because some spaces had become available at the last minute. Megan kindly drove us and we were able to park in the local vaccination centre - with special permission arranged by the church.
We had allocated seats in separate places in the church, which thankfully was cool on such a hot day. We were even offered chilled water from a cool bag on entry. The Singing Group from Luther King House provided some melodic calming pieces before the service, setting the mood for such a special occasion.
The service was a joy filled occasion conducted by Revd Kirsty Thorpe, and Jonnie was shining with happiness throughout. The church felt full of warmth and love for Jonnie. His choice of the readings about Samuel followed by John 1 and the hymns (sung by the Luther King choir) were both pertinent and moving. I was surprised to see how young both Jonnie’s tutor, Revd Dr Graham Adams and Revd Andy Braunston (who has featured on so many of the CDs) were, which is surely encouraging for the future of the URC. Everyone was delighted that Jonnie’s mother (pictured with Jonnie above) was able be there after so much uncertainty about the travel restrictions due to Covid.
Afterwards there was a delicious tea provided in the church halls with strict Covid adherence.
On Sunday afternoon Steve and I attended Jonnie’s first Communion Service, at Gatley URC. This had originally been our only invitation to Jonnie’s Ordination weekend, so we felt extra lucky to participate in both events. We had been wondering how communion could be possible in Covid times and cleverly the wine was already in a glass in our allocated places together with the bread in a small lidded plastic container. This time we were allocated the same pew - suitably distanced of course. Although singing was not permitted, the organist played the hymn tunes, and it felt unusual to follow the text in a hymn book again as there were no screens at Gatley. Joining together in a church for communion was marvellous and hopefully a sign of the future. Gatley also provided delicious refreshments outside on the lawn and even ice creams! Both Steve and I appreciated how lucky we were to be part of such a memorable weekend.
Jenny