So many people came to Trinity’s special Eclipse Encounter that the 70+ pairs of special viewing glasses had to be shared one between two…..but what a wonderful problem to find we had!

The event began with an introductory session in the Hub, led by Rev Ian and Bev Jones, which included eclipse information, reflection, a time of worship, craft, creative writing and puzzle activities. This was followed by a gargantuan ‘bring and share’ tea! Live footage of the eclipse was shown on the screen in the hall for those who didn’t want to brave the heat, whilst the majority of those present went out to the two onsite viewing areas, and the more energetic joined the crowds up on the slopes of Clitheroe Castle.

Whilst the degree of actual darkness was disappointing, the viewing through the special glasses was astounding, and alternative means of viewing using colanders and pinhole cameras were surprisingly effective, too.

As the ‘church on the park’ it was good to be able to take this opportunity to invite everyone in, and also to get out there into it ourselves.

In the words of our Methodist founder John Wesley…..’All the world’s my parish’.