Gospel Bell were delighted to support the Pentecost Sunday afternoon event organized by Richard Becher and colleagues at the United Reform Church and the Churches together in Broadway. On cue, the sun shone and thanks to the meticulous preparation, kindness and sound balancing of Tom Prater from Broadmark Services, everything that was said, sung and played could be heard clearly across the Green and beyond, to the pubs and cafes where locals and visitors were enjoying the sunshine. Not only that, we provided musical respite to the brave souls completing a 52 mile walk – The Heineken ‘Race to the Tower’ is described as a Cotswold Way Ultra Marathon and all the participants – some looking much the worse for wear – were walking past. We enjoyed the dramatic reminder of the events of Pentecost, the song by Indian pastor Israel and his wife and the vibrant singing of Juliet Mukisa from Uganda – Juliet joined us for our second set.

It is encouraging to read feedback from today: A lady called Phoebe posted the following comment on our Facebook page: ‘I happened to be visiting Broadway this afternoon and heard you guys playing on the village green. You made my day! I’m from the US, Kentucky and Virginia, and grew up listening to what you were playing. Loved it! ‘ Thank you Phoebe!

Our grateful thanks to the organizing team, the audience young and old – some clapping and dancing, some singing and others doing cartwheels and to the churches in Broadway for hosting the event. If we can assist next year, we’ll look forward to coming back!

Eastertide is the period of 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday and Gospel Bell were delighted to participate in a Sunday afternoon Eastertide Celebration service at All Saints, Mollington – our second visit to this lovely old church. The vicar, Hilary Campbell led the service that included two GB sets, with warm appreciation from the stalwarts in the congregation who came to our last event. The closing responses included: ‘Christ has come to turn the world upside down – to over throw the present order with a revolution of love’. Our old Gospel songs mirror this statement and we would like to thank Hilary, the service participants and the team that provided a plentiful afternoon tea for their welcome and hospitality.

On Sunday Pentecost Sunday 9^th June, Gospel Bell will be performing on the village green in Broadway (2-4pm) at a community event organized by the United Reform Church and others in Broadway.