A CHURCH which first opened its doors 150 years ago welcomed a special guest to its harvest festival.
The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, joined the congregation at St Matthew's Church, in Naburn, at their service, which also marked the milestone anniversary for the church.
Dr Hope, who was the preacher at the service, made his way to Naburn from Bishopthorpe by boat and walked from the ferry to the church, with people greeting him along the way.
"It was absolutely marvellous," said Jenny Dale, a church warden. "It was the 150th anniversary and the church was full."
Pupils from Naburn CE Primary School played their part by singing a harvest song before harvest offerings were taken to the altar, including fruits, vegetables and a hamper of shopping.
Dr Hope then gave the sermon before the congregation burst into hymn.
The service's collection was for the Arclight shelter for homeless people.
Updated: 12:22 Thursday, September 16, 2004
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