A Spectacle Not to be Missed at St Albans Cathedral
The Alban Pilgrimage 2011
On Saturday 18th June, thousands of people will gather in Verulamium Park, St Albans, to see giant carnival puppets retell the dramatic and moving story of Saint Alban, patron of the city and Britain’s first martyr.
The Alban Pilgrimage 2011 includes Roman chariots, 12-foot tall puppets and hundreds of local children dressed as roses, soldiers, stained glass windows, angels and monks.
This colourful event tells the story of a man who lived in Roman Verulamium over 1700 years ago. Saint Alban gave shelter to a Christian priest fleeing persecution by the Romans. Moved by the priest’s faith, Alban became a Christian, and the two men swapped cloaks, enabling the priest to escape. Alban was arrested instead, brought to trial and beheaded on the hill where St Albans Cathedral now stands.
The Dean of St Albans, the Very Reverend Jeffrey John, said, “Come and celebrate Saint Alban, this country’s first saint and martyr –a man of tremendous courage who stood up for truth and fairness and paid the price. We’ll be re-enacting his story in a fantastic pageant, and as well as inspiring and moving worship, there will be lots of outside attractions and fun events for the whole family.”
Visitors to St Albans can enjoy the procession, services at the Cathedral, free Cathedral tours and fun and games at the Roman Quest where children can take part in chariot racing, dress up as Romans, hunt for Roman treasure, enjoy storytelling and get crafty making roses.
Canon Kevin Walton said, “This is a wonderful day out and a truly unique event. We are looking forward to welcoming people from around the country and abroad. The combination of celebration, drama and family fun is not to be missed.”
The Alban Pilgrimage starts at 10.30 in Roman Verulamium, St Albans. The Roman Quest starts at 11.30 outside St Albans Cathedral. Refreshments are available throughout the day.