Swan Lanterns Community Project

22/07/09

The Community Lantern Project was the inspiration of the Revd Paul Davies and led by local artist Donagh Curwen. During the week she worked with five local infant and junior schools, each creating a unique willow and paper swan.

On Saturday 11 July the swans were display on a 'lake' in the church to the accompaniment of music from Swan Lake and the community came to visit in large numbers.

At the end of the day the crowds thronged the riverbank to watch the breathtaking and enchanting sight of the Flotilla of Swans gliding down the river. Leading the flotilla in a small launch was the Mayor of Spelthorne, Cllr. Caroline Spencer.

Then followed a Lantern Procession from the church to the Walled Garden where Donagh conducted a hands-on workshop, adding a sixth swan to nestle amongst the trees and shrubs.

Fr Paul said:

"The amazing thing was the numbers of people who came into the church and were visibly moved by the experience; capturing a sense of wonder and awe - and they went to fetch others to share the experience.

"The church was a catalyst to bring the community together and in a way it also brought all the children together in the one place. All were caught up in the wonder of it all."

Visitors were greeted with a free Fairtrade cuppa as part of the Big Brew events taking place throughout the diocese and had an opportunity to buy from the Traidcraft stand, which sold out completely.

St Mary’s Sunbury is situated on the stretch of the Thames where the annual swan upping takes place and where The Swan Sanctuary is located.