Aquitaine chaplaincy celebration
The Chaplaincy Celebration Day at Abbaye Saint-Ferme on 23 May was a joyful and uplifting occasion, bringing together more than 110 people from across the Aquitaine chaplaincy for worship, fellowship, and friendship in the beautiful setting of the Abbey. Holy Communion, led by Chaplain John Bavington, was made even more special by the wonderful music that filled the church, creating a deep sense of worship, joy, and the presence of God throughout the morning.
From the warm welcome of tea and coffee on arrival to the shared lunch and relaxed conversations between congregations, there was a genuine spirit of warmth, hospitality, and community throughout the day. Old friendships were renewed, new ones were formed, and there was a real sense of people simply enjoying being together. In the afternoon, thoughtful seminars led by John and Helen encouraged reflection on relationships within the church and beyond, before the day concluded with a delicious afternoon tea generously prepared by the team from Bertric-Burée.
The Chaplaincy Celebration Day was a beautiful reminder of the joy of gathering as God’s people: to worship, to learn, to share fellowship, and to celebrate all that we are building together in Christ. We left encouraged and refreshed, and already looking forward to next year.