The Friends of Manchester Cathedral became Canterbury Pilgrims, 9th to 11^th May 2008. Here's a report:

On arrival we received a very warm welcome from the Secretary of Canterbury Friends' Association and one of their welcomers. The Dean of Canterbury had very kindly invited us to a drinks reception in his beautiful gardens. Having introduced us to his cats - a black one called ‘Monkey' as he was mischievous and ‘Tiger' who was the boss - he also spoke of the ancient tradition of Benedictine hospitality, dating from the days of the monks at Canterbury, and how it  was still being carried on. Thanking him, Geoff Bamping presented him with a commemorative drawing of Manchester Cathedral.

Canterbury Lodge where we stayed is a purpose built International Conference and Study Centre, accommodating 50 people, all rooms en suite and very comfortable.

On Saturday morning, we had a very interesting tour of the Cathedral. After which the rest of the day was free. Some of us took a walk around the town and by chance came upon an alley leading to the Greyfriars Chapel and Franciscan Gardens where the river divides to form an island. This proved to be a haven of tranquillity and just the place for a short period of contemplation, only a few yards from the hustle and bustle of the main street. The chapel, spanning the river, is all that remains of the first English Franciscan friary, built in 1267, whilst St Francis of Assisi was still alive.

At dinner that evening we celebrated our Treasurer, Basil's birthday. And the evening concluded with a choice: either attending the organ recital in the Cathedral, or Compline taken by our Chaplain Peter Bellamy-Knights. As it was a lovely warm evening with the sun setting and the birds singing, this took place in the Lodge garden.

The Eucharist for Pentecost was another wonderful experience. As it was the final Sunday of the Lord Mayor of Canterbury's year of office, it was a Civic Service. And we had reserved seats in the Cathedral.

Throughout our stay we enjoyed marvellous music in wonderful surroundings. Probably the highlight for most was the anthem at Saturday Evensong: Mendelssohn's ‘Hear my Prayer', with extensive and challenging solos exquisitely performed by the winner of the Chorister of the Year competition, who is a member of the choir. It was all a great experience - thanks to all who contributed to organising it!