End of Life Bill: Final Call for Evidence
January 20, 2025
Parishioners at St Pancras Church in Ipswich have inaugurated the Holy Year with the blessing of a specially commissioned sign installed above the church’s main entrance.
The sign, created by a professional sign-maker who is also a member of the parish, will remain in place throughout the Jubilee Year as a symbolic reminder of Our Lord’s words: ‘I am the door. By me, if any man enter in, he shall be saved’ (Jn 10:9).
The blessing ceremony, led by Fr Joseph, invoked God’s mercy on all who pass beneath the sign. The prayer of blessing asked that God look with mercy on those who pass beneath this lintel that those who seek ‘forgiveness of sins, the sanctification of their souls, and such peace as the world cannot give, may find within this church the means of salvation and the gateway to heaven.’
In keeping with the Holy Father’s appointed theme for the Holy Year, the prayer also asked that, ‘for those who seek refuge here,’ the doorway may open up ‘the promise and fulfilment of hope that their souls may be anchored in the goodness and mercy’ of God.
The parishioner behind the creation and installation of the sign brought their professional skills to bear on this meaningful project, ensuring its craftsmanship would be a fitting testament to the significance of the Holy Year. The design serves not only as a decorative addition to the church but also as a spiritual invitation, encouraging all who see it to reflect on Christ as the ultimate gateway to salvation.
