I DO not think it was quite what the medieval builders had in
mind when they were constructing Ripon Cathedral, but a spectacular
entrance through a rood screen and along the central aisle of a
large nave certainly lends itself to a catwalk.
It was the second time that the cathedral had held a Wedding
Show; the first was two years ago. This time, on a recent Saturday,
it followed heavy overnight snow, but it did not deter the hundreds
of visitors. Knowing what large (and small) churches can be like in
snowy weather, I hope the cathedral managed to keep them warm while
they watched the displays of wedding gowns and menswear, and
visited the stands representing 70 modern and vintage wedding
companies providing everything from hair-dos to flowers, catering,
and photography.
They were welcomed at the first of the professional catwalk
shows (accompanied by live music) by the Dean, the Very Revd Keith
Jukes. And among those exhibiting was the diocese of Ripon
& Leeds, demonstrating all that the Church of England
can offer to those wanting to get married. In particular, they had
Your Church Wedding material, with its helpful information
about planning a church wedding and choosing a church, and ideas
about hymns and readings.