I'm sure most of us that attended,  remember "Palm Sunday" morning back in 2007, when the procession of palms, headed by Dingle the Donkey, took place in gloriously warm sunshine. This year however, the elements were not so obliging. The morning maintained a heavy persistant rain throughout, although it did ease towards mid-day. The Procession of Palms at East Garston Church, which preceded the Palm Sunday service, did not go exactly as planned, but nevertheless the journey made by Jesus riding into Jerusalem was still re-enacted.

The Revd Tony Cumberlidge, who conducted the service, blessed the Palm Crosses before the walk along the approach to the Church began. The congregation followed with their palm branches, some of which were laid along the path upon which the donkey would walk.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the donkey that should have been involved was not able to come to East Garston. However a substitute donkey, named George, from the paddock adjacent to the Church was cajoled into helping out. George is a very young rescue donkey, very nervous and rather wild. With the help of carrots, pony pellets and polo mints, he was urged to come to our rescue! Though George refused to cooperate fully, as Revd Cumberlidge explained in his address, in our own symbolic way, we had recreated the journey that Jesus made into Jerusalem, when he was cheered by the crowds, even though he knew that shortly they would turn against him and he would be crucified. We are very grateful to Nicky Henton for allowing us to use little George.
Above Photos : Sally Wright
Text :: Sally Wright : Ken Tarbox