St John’s Church, Midsomer Norton is hosting a very special Flower Festival between Friday, 21st and Sunday, 23rd June in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the ordination of Fr Christopher Chiplin, the Parish Priest, and his 25th anniversary as Vicar of the Parish of Midsomer Norton and Clandown.

The church is guaranteed to look spectacular, as the Festival is being presented by Farmborough Floral Art Group, a member of NAFAS. Well renowned for their artistic talent and expertise in all things floral, they exhibit in local churches every year and members regularly participate in major events. In 2015, they took part in the magnificent Flower Festival in Salisbury Cathedral, celebrating the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta and exhibit every year in The Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

Fittingly titled ‘Sacred and Sublime’, the twenty-five arrangements in St John’s Church will reflect Ministry as well as floral interpretations of many aspects of church life, including catering, music and bellringing. Clerical vestments and a special wedding dress will enhance the displays.

During Fr Christopher’s incumbency in Midsomer Norton, St John’s Church has been clad in scaffolding on several occasions for major restoration work.

The tower was repaired in 1998, re-roofed in 1999, the chancel re-ordered, the nave repaired and redecorated and the organ repaired and re positioned in a new gallery between 2010 and 2012. St John’s is now a beautiful, bright, uplifting and welcoming church, a fitting backdrop for the vibrancy and colour this Flower Festival will bring.

Entry is free and the church will be open on Friday, 21st and Saturday, 22nd June from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, 23rd June from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The tower will be open for tours on Saturday, affording spectacular panoramic views over Midsomer Norton and beyond.

Refreshments and light lunches will be available throughout the day, and there will also be a cake stall. The fine Wadsworth organ will be played regularly and a variety of other musicians have been invited to entertain with light background music as visitors reflect and enjoy the flowers.

There are a few tickets available for the Preview on Thursday, 20th June at 7 p.m. If you would like to come along, tickets include a buffet supper and are available by calling: 01761 412118.

This will be a fabulous weekend and a feast for all the senses. As always, a warm welcome awaits, so do come and join the celebration.

Diane Chiplin