CAIRNS OF HOPE AND REMEMBRANCE
An idea from Churches Together in Ilkley to mark Good Friday 2021
Cairns are monuments of rough stones which people create together outside. A cairn often marks a stage on a journey and is a chance to look back with thanks and look forward with hope.
On Good Friday we remember the sacrifice of Jesus and reflect on God with us in all the pains of the world. We look forward with hope because of the signs of God’s love for us.
Churches Together in Ilkley usually mark Good Friday with a walk of witness around the town. That will not be possible this year because of the restrictions caused by the current pandemic.
This year Good Friday will fall just over a year since the first national lockdown of our country began. So on Friday the 2nd April three churches in Ilkley are offering some space for people to give thanks to God and remember the Good Friday people in our lives; either those who have worked hard to help others during this year, or those whose lives have been lost and whose memories we cherish.
Anyone can come and lay a stone as part of our Cairns of Remembrance and Hope. These could be plain or painted. When you lay a stone it can be a moment to say a prayer or hold someone in your heart.
Date: Friday 2nd April at the following Churches and times:
St John’s (Ben Rhydding) 11 am – 3 pm All Saints’, Church Street 12 – 3 pm
Christchurch, The Grove 2 – 6 pm
During these times stewards will be available to guide the laying of stones.
Look out for posters at churches with the logo “Cairns of remembrance and hope” as that means you can bring your stone there. Social distancing and other covid guidelines will be followed and there will be no gathering.
The cairns are temporary and will be removed on the evening of April 2nd. Please note that you will not be able to get your stone back.
Anyone is welcome to come and lay a stone during the time when the stewards are present.
In the Bible it says “And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.” Psalm 78:3
Our Worship and support
Our Church buildings may be closed, but rest assured that "the church" is still alive and active in Ilkley. Many churches have been able to stream their services on YouTube, Facebook or Zoom, and we would encourage you to drop-in and join our shared acts of worship. Details of all the services can be found on the CTI Calendar on this page.
If you have any concerns, worries, or just need to have a chat, all the churches are able to assist, and you can find more details on how to contact them on their respective church pages.