On Wednesday 25th June, Pam Meir, Winchester Cathedral Guide, and myself experienced once again the joy and privilege of taking a small group of ladies, this time from Abbots Barton Care Home, on a short tour of the beautiful. embroidered cushions found in the Cathedral Quire and throughout this beautiful building.
These cushions and kneelers were hand embroidered in the early 1930’s by a group of highly skilled volunteer ladies. They were trained by two gifted lady designers who were commissioned by the then current Bishop of Winchester. The large number of cushions and kneelers tell us the history of the cathedral and the diocese.
As is often the case, two of our guests had connections with the cathedral. One lady had been a programme seller and the other had sung in her choir at the cathedral. It is hard to describe their happiness and animation as their memories flooded back.
Again, as is often the case, this was the first visit of the young carer who accompanied the ladies. The beauty of the building was not lost on her – she will be back.
Because of the circumstances of the guests we receive, a small number only is essential for the success of our tours. The objective is to provide, through one to one engagement, a gentle, unhurried, sensory and visual experience.
How can time and numbers be measured against the awakening of precious memories?
Photos here
Diana Brooks
