At the start of Christian Unity Week (18 – 25 January), a significant event unfolded in Ipswich as Fr Luke Goymour, the Catholic Dean of Ipswich, came together with Revd Tom Mumford, the Anglican Vicar, for Ecumenical Vespers.
The service, held at the Civic Church of St Mary-le-Tower, showcased a spirit of unity and friendship between the two clergy members. The occasion gained further significance the following day, with the redesignation of St Mary-le-Tower as Ipswich Minster, marking a unique and historic milestone for the town.
Parishioner Ian Tearle provides more detail and insight into an inspiring weekend for Ipswich:
A weekend of diverse activities in Ipswich culminated in a landmark service, setting a hopeful tone for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Festivities began on Friday evening with entertainment that traced Ipswich’s cultural and historical journey from the medieval period to the present day. Saturday featured an open day that included singing and bell-ringing workshops, culminating in what is thought to be the first service of Vespers in around 500 years.
A choir of 23, composed of male and female singers of all ages, delivered beautiful renditions of the Psalms, Gloria, and Magnificat, creating a rich and moving musical backdrop. The reading, from Colossians 1:2-6, was delivered by the chair of Together for Ipswich (TFI), a member of one of the town’s nonconformist churches.
Fr Luke delivered the sermon. Reflecting on the historic occasion, he spoke of the privilege and honour of participating. His message focused on the themes of faith, hope, and love, quoting Pope Francis’s reminder that Christians are “pilgrims of hope.” Fr Luke concluded with a call to work together to share God’s love.
Prayers were led jointly by Fr Luke and Revd Tom Mumford, each incorporating quotations from early Church Fathers spanning the 2nd to 7th centuries, including St Irenaeus of Lyon, St Basil of Caesarea, and St Gregory the Great. The service concluded with a moving joint blessing by Fr Luke and Revd Mumford – a profound expression of unity and collaboration.
This historic service provided a beautiful and inspiring beginning to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, bringing together diverse traditions to celebrate faith and hope in Ipswich.
Photographs by Ian Tearle