Hundreds Join Christian Walk of Witness on Good Friday in Town Centre

Published on: 7 Apr, 2023
Updated on: 7 Apr, 2023

The head of the procession ascends to High Street on its way to Holy Trinity Church

Hundreds of Christians gathered in Guildford town centre today, Good Friday, for the traditional Walk of Witness. The Walk began at the bottom of North Street, proceeded along Friary Street and up High Street, to the steps of Holy Trinity Church.

The procession was led by a large cross, carried by volunteers at different stages of the walk.

Members of churches from across Guildford held up placards displaying the names of their own local churches.

After Gospel readings at The Rotunda, the procession moves off along Friary Street

The service was led by Rev’d Canon Robert Cotton of Holy Trinity Church, with contributions from Rev’d Jo Lambeth of St John’s Church, Stoke and Rev’d Canon Chris Hollingshurst of Guildford Cathedral.

Rev’d Robert Cotton preaching on the steps of Holy Trinity

Robert Cotton is to retire later this year after 25 years at Holy Trinity Church, making this his last Walk of Witness on behalf of the town. The Mayor of Guildford, Dennis Booth, was in attendance.

Three Gospel readings were given, the first at The Rotunda at the bottom of North Street, the second near Tunsgate and the third on the steps of Holy Trinity Church. Canon Chris Hollingshurst spoke of the importance of remembering those called into caring roles in our community, whose contributions are often not fully acknowledged.

The singing of hymns (‘When I survey the wonderous Cross’, ‘Were you there when they crucified my Lord?’ and ‘There is a green hill far away’) was accompanied by music provided by the band of the Salvation Army.