As part of the conservation of the south nave clerestory, these striking carvings, blackened by centuries of grime, are being cleaned carefully by hand.

The instruments in the set at St Mary’s include:

• the crown of thorns
• the seamless robe of Jesus
• the pillar, where Jesus was whipped
• the cross
• the hammer used to drive the nails into Jesus’ hands and feet
• the holy sponge, set on a reed, with which gall and vinegar were offered up to Jesus on the cross
• the pincers used to remove the nails
• the ladder used for the removal of Christ’s body from the cross for burial

We also find the Veil of Veronica, which features in one of the Tudor roof bosses in the ceiling of the choir vestry.

The ‘Arma Christi’ have a long tradition in Christian iconography dating back to the 9th century, although the prime member, the Cross, had been introduced to Christian art as early as the 4th century as the crux invicta, a symbol of victory.

St Mary’s nave was rebuilt in the 1520s, following the fall of the tower. Only decades later, the English Reformation rejected many traditions of Catholic art, and destroyed much of it. But at 15 metres up, these carvings were out of reach! And maybe there was little enthusiasm to tear down these powerful works of art.

As we prepare for the forthcoming journey through Lent and Holy Week to Easter, these arresting carvings remind us of Christ’s sufferings and his death on the cross. And we pray for strength, comfort, peace, forgiveness and healing in our world.

We have also discovered some much smaller carvings on the blind tracery beneath the clerestory windows! Whereas the carving at this level on the north side of St Mary’s is of foliage and vines, on the south we have uncovered creatures including a bear and a dog. Again, this stonework is being cleaned and we look forward to sharing further photos of work in progress and the finished job in due course.

See here for more information and pictures https://stmarysbeverley.org/2021/02/07/discoveries-from-the-current-restoration-of-st-marys/

We have ordered the Easter Sticker Countdown Calendar for the families in our church to help parents as they continue to help their children grow in faith. More information follows but please let us know if you would like one of these calendars to share with your children (especially if you are not on the electoral role).


This is a lovely resource which encourages families to follow the story of Jesus as all the way up to Holy Week and Easter Day.

The stories include:

• Jesus gets ‘lost’ in the temple
• Jesus call the fishermen to be his disciples
• Jesus heals and forgives a lame man lowered through the roof
• Jesus speaks with Mary and Martha
• Jesus visits Zacheaus
• Jesus welcomes the children
• Jesus goes to Jerusalem
• Jesus’ last supper
• Jesus dies
• Jesus is alive again

The stories are told in the 32 page illustrated mini-book which everyone in the family will be able to understand and enjoy (you might even take turns in reading the story for that day, as well as enjoying placing the stickers).

Each countdown comes with a sticker sheet with 50 stickers, which includes one for each Sunday, which are officially feast days and so don’t count in the 40 day Lent run up to Easter. On these days there is no story to read, but you can use a flame sticker on the back of the sticker guide postcard to say prayers of thanks together.

There’s also extra stickers on two other days, as some stories are hard to capture in one sticker!

A simple form of evening prayer and candle lighting *

At St Mary's we would like to invite you to join us in a short time of prayer every day at 7pm. It involves lighting a candle and placing it in the window and then saying the following prayers as individuals or as households.  You can join with others in these prayers on our Facebook page.

The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.

Our help is in the name of the Lord
who made heaven and earth.

A period of silence for reflection on the past day may follow.

O God, make speed to save us.
O Lord, make haste to help us.

Glory to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit;
as it was in the beginning is now
and shall be for ever. Amen.

The reading for the day (see below)**

The candle is lit and the following prayer is said
Heavenly Father, accept this burning candle as a sign of faith and love.
Like this candle, bring light into our world
Even as this candle is lit may we know your presence
and be consumed in the warmth of your love.
In your mercy, Lord hear our prayer.

In peace we will lie down and sleep;
for you alone, Lord, make us dwell in safety.

Abide with us, Lord Jesus
for the night is at hand and the day is now past.

As the night watch looks for the morning
so do we look for you, O Christ.

The Lord bless us and watch over us;
the Lord make his face shine upon us and be gracious to us;
the Lord look kindly on us and give us peace. Amen.

Readings

Wed 10th February - Luke 4.1-13
Thu 11th February - Luke 4.14-22
Fri 12th February - Luke 4. 22-30
Sat 13th February - Matthew 4:12-17
Monday 15^th February - Matthew 4:18-25
Tuesday 16^th February – Matthew 5.1-12
Ash Wednesday (17^th) - Psalm 103:8-14
Thursday 18^th February – Matthew 5.13-14
Friday 19^th February - Matthew 5.17-20