The Dedication of the new Taddiport Belfry Screen
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On Mothering Sunday, March 10th 2013 the Bishop of Exeter, Michael Langrish dedicated the new belfry screen at Sung Evensong at Taddiport Church.
The screen is decorated with both the symbols of Jesus and those of Mary Magdalene after whom the Church is dedicated. The three panels form a triptych with the central panel bearing both the flag of the Resurrection and the sacred Chalice, the Holy Grail. As Christians after the Resurrection we are now fed from this sacred vessel through the most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist. The whole scene represents Resurrection. The words below the panel are the words Our Lord speaks to Mary on the Day of Resurrection itself, 'Noli Me Tangere' - ‘Do not Cling to Me’. Either side of the central panel the two outer panels show shields of Mary Magdalene entwined with more symbols of the Resurrection, pomegranates. These fruits are symbolic of Jesus bursting forth from the tomb. Above all of this the whole scene is animated by the dove, the Holy Spirit, who pours forth and from whom both the Resurrection and the sacrifice of the Mass are made possible. The decorated design is by Fr. Lawrence, John Bucknall and Howell & Bellion. The oak screen and wrought iron gates were designed by Alexander Brydon and work executed by local carpenter Dave Belgrave and blacksmith James Kendrew. |