Hundreds take part in Chester city centre Lent Procession

Chester was filled with music, poetry and readings as more than 200 people gathered for a Lent Procession on a journey through the city centre.

Beginning at the historic Town Hall, the procession featured performances from the University of Chester Choir, Karamba Samba drummers and Chester Mystery Plays chorus.  

Among the music, there were also reflections from the University of Chester’s Senior Chaplain, Rev Dr Gill Reeve, and Canon Missioner, Anthony Lees-Smith of Chester Cathedral, who each offered words of encouragement on the theme of ‘Journey of Hope’. 

Along the route, participants paused for performances at The Cross before heading into St Peter’s at The Cross, where warm hot cross buns were shared – a symbol of community and Lenten tradition – before continuing to The Rows and concluding in Chester Cathedral.  

Revd Dr Gill Reeve said:

“It was wonderful to see Chester city centre filled with so much vibrancy and joy, with an audience that included students from the University, local residents, local churches, tourists, and many passers-by.  

“The feedback from the event was immensely positive, and there are already requests for it to become an annual tradition!” 

Pictured - The Chester Mystery Plays chorus led by Matt Baker.