From the Revd Simon Davis
Sir, - What an amazing weekend for Yorkshire and the surrounding
area as the Tour de France passed through!
The atmosphere for those of us able to line the route was
terrific. The churches in particular deserve a big congratulatory
jersey for theway they entered into the spirit of the occasion and
affirmed the joy of life.
The TV coverage often paused on the churches, festooned with
large yellow jerseys and other cycling art. For those of us who
watch the coverage of the big cycling races all over Europe, this
witness by the churches stood out as something quite unique in its
scale and engagement. The race may have now been and gone, but
something of the liveliness and engagement of the Church in our
national life will have left an encouraging impression on hundreds
of millions of viewers around the world.
Many may well visit our churches, having been enticed to visit
the UK through the landscape and warm human welcome given to the
riders.
As the big yellow jersey on the top of York Minister proclaimed,
"Allez Alleluia!"
SIMON DAVIS
The Vicarage, Market Place
Abbots Bromley
Staffordshire WS15 3BP