Embracing the Church
A Sermon for the Clypping of St Mary's, Wirksworth Clypping is an ancient way of celebrating a patronal festival of a church. 'Clyppan', an Old English word, means 'to embrace' or 'clasp'. The congregation surrounds the church, holding hands in a circle: the church is 'embraced' as a symbol of love and affection. The origins of the festival are obscure, but it is said to hvae originated as a pagan custom, later adopted by Christianity. It has been associated with Candlemas, Shrove Tuesday and Easter Monday as well as Patronal Festivals. St Mary's, Wirksworth is one of the few churches to retain this ancient custom. Genesis 28.10-17 ; John 15.1-11 Some words from our first reading: “Surely the Lord is in this place and I did not know it”. Never let it be said that the Bible paints a glossy and rosy view of its heroes. Jacob has lied and tricked his brother out of his inheritance and his father’s blessing, and n...