The Hills are alive with the sound of…
Curates.
Not just your ordinary Church of England Curates, but visiting curates from the Diocese of Worcester’s partnership churches of the EKM - known to all involved by the shorthand ‘Magdeburg’.
The German visitors enjoyed fascinating talks on what the Church of England is (which was excellent revision for their CofE counterparts) and about New Worshipping Communities, in the Diocesan Offices on their first day. Experiences were shared during meal and coffee breaks - there’s a lot in common!
Day two saw a talk on Eco Church and a wonderful exploration of the Old Palace Gardens, with worship outdoors in the shade to the sound of birdsong and the backdrop of the Malvern Hills.
Then the curates and their support staff buddied up with Worcester Diocese curates…which led to four Germans visiting Malvern.
It was perfect timing, as that very day the new Priory Welcome leaflets in German translation had arrived. They were pounced on with enthusiasm and universally declared to be perfect - thanks to the Priory’s volunteer translator
Lunch outside in the Priory curate’s garden, featuring English cheeses and strawberries and cream (separately) was followed by a gentle ‘jaunt’ up the Hills to the Priory. The views were suitably impressive down to Philippa’s home and also to the Priory, nestling so close to the base of the Hills, and, of course across to Wales and the Brecon Beacons on the skyline. The descent to the Priory and real Malvern Spring water oh-so-cool straight from the spout was very welcome.
An excursion to a local pub, with views of the Hills, for supper in the garden, with the scent of roses and a happy wedding reception sharing the space made for a very enjoyable evening.
Farewells were said after Evensong at Worcester Cathedral, the following day, where the Elgar Society laid a wreath at the Elgar monument and the service was filled with the composers’ music and a magnificent Dyson in D for the canticles.
2027 will see a return trip of Worcester Diocese curates to the EKM.
