(Continued from page 85)

son. Hymn "O Shepherd of the Sheep" was sung, at the conclusion of which the Bishop divested his cope, and preached an earnest and most appropriate sermon on some of the lessons to be learnt from the life of John the Baptist. His Lordship said there were no mighty signs attending the public ministry of St John the Baptist. His powers lay in fearless truth and plain speaking. He was ready with the needful advice for each class and person. He rebuked a King though it cost him his life; above all, he pointed to the Saviour as the "True Lamb of God, that taketh away the sins of the world". Herein he was a type of true minister. Proceeding, the Bishop said it was a solemn and serious occasion that called him to them that day. Their faithful Pastor was about to relinquish the office he had so long sustained; during that time how many had he brought to the Sacrament of Holy baptism, and what a wonderful thing that was, wherein they were made "Members of Heaven". How many had he prepared for Confirmation, and that again was a great wonder, the receiving of the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Ghost? How many had he fed with the bread of life in the Holy Communion? How often had that Holy Sacrament been offered before God the Father, as the memorial of the one perfect Sacrifice? How many had it been needful for him to comfort, exhort and even rebuke? If any in that long period had slighted his ministrations, such might be sure that God would not suffer his faithful servant to be put to shame. The Bishop's touching words were listened to with deepest attention by the crowded congregation. At the end of the Bishop's sermon two hymns were sung, during which the offertory was taken. The Bishop then pronounced the Benediction, and the procession left the church in the same order as before. The collection was given to the Oxford Mission to Calcutta. The altar looked its best, upon it being placed the customary Cross, Eucharistic and Vesper lights, and vases of choice flowers. The carved oak screen, and other woodwork, the Vicars handiwork some 20 years ago, improves the appearance of the church. A new altar frontal, and the banner of St Nicholas, both the work of Miss Townsend, were used for the first time on this memorable occasion. On the following morning, the Vicar and assistant priest acting as Gospeller and Epistoler, the Bishop celebrated the Divine Sacrament, a fit termination to his memorable visit. We may add, it is proposed to insert a stained glass memorial window in Searby Chancel, as a mark of sympathy and esteem for the Vicar. Subscriptions, not exceeding half a guinea, will be gladly received by Rev T Field, Rural Dean, Bigby Rectory ; and the

(Continued on page 87)

E-mail Family Roots at    -    iforbarton@supanet.com