Children from the St Michael's Primary School at Bowthorpe write their own words about the visit of the new Archbishop of Canterbury to Norwich yesterday. From left, Joshua Brown, Kimberly Gavin, Amber Wilson, Morgan Harris, Adam Kerridge, and Maisie Sistern. Picture: Denise Bradley

We asked six children from St Michael’s V.A. Junior School in Bowthorpe, who took part in the procession to write about their day.

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By Adam Kerridge

Thousands of excited people from over the county gathered to see the Archbishop of Canterbury in Norwich.

Suddenly, we all glanced to the left and there he was, the Archbishop of Canterbury. We also saw the Bishop of Norwich in his purple shirt, silver necklace and black robe.

The Archbishop made his speech and everyone listened quietly, then we heard the enchanting sound of the bells of St Peter Mancroft church. Everyone around felt the celebratory feel of the occasion. We were delighted that the Archbishop came and spoke to our group, after which we walked with him to the cathedral.

Even the weather picked up on the excitement as during the walk it started snowing with joy!

By Amber Wilson

I estimate there were roughly 700 people crowding around him to get a view.

The mass of people swarmed through the city to get to the cathedral to pray with him and to meet him in person. The Bishop of King’s Lynn distributed candles to us as we gathered around the Cathedral entrance. I shall treasure this memento for years to come. The reason why he gave these candles is to encourage us to pray. One of the prayers that the Archbishop said was “Lord, your light is hope and comfort in this cold world. As it burns let my fears be melted by your love. Lord, your presence with me is promised and faithful. As this light fades, let me know your unchanging fire in my heart. Lord, this flame is to light other candles, may I be peace and love to those around me. Amen.”

By Joshua Brown

On arrival outside the Forum I felt so ecstatic and couldn’t wait to see the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Once the Archbishop arrived pictures were being taken and hands were being shaken. Radio reporters came down to watch, joined by about 80 pupils from various schools. All were hoping to meet the Archbishop himself. Suddenly, the sound of the echoing bells hit you and instead of listening, everyone raised their heads to look at the magnificent picturesque view of the St Peter Mancroft church. When the bells rang I was buzzing with an overwhelming feeling of excitement.

Our amazing day continued with many different types of prayer in the cathedral. Hundreds of people enjoyed story-telling, interactive prayer and many other activities.

By Kimberly Gavan

Hundreds of people turned up from all over the county for the extraordinary event of the Archbishop’s pilgrimage around the country.

Just after his arrival, he made a speech about visiting Norwich before in his childhood and he was also talking about how it was a privilege seeing so many people there to welcome him.

Finally arriving at the cathedral, everyone buzzing with excitement, the gathered congregation and the children heard the enchanting organ. Despite the large numbers of people within the Norwich Cathedral, there was still an aura of peace and stillness.

The west side of the cathedral was filled with activities for everyone to do. Overhearing a pupil from one of the visiting schools, he commented “This day has been an opportunity of a lifetime.” I agree!

By Maisie Sistern

Children from all over the county hurried to this excellent event bursting with excitement and happiness. Many people were taking pictures and videos. When the Most Rev Welby was up the stairs outside the forum he made a speech about the day’s events. After that he said a prayer and all the surrounding people lowered their heads. We were all delighted that the Archbishop had chosen our city of Norwich to begin his pilgrimage and it was a real honour to walk with him.

By Morgan Harris

Patiently sitting on the cold steps and soaking up the atmosphere, as cameras flashed all around, the main sound was excited chatter.

Finally, at around 11.30am, the Most Rev Justin Welby arrived at the Forum in Norwich to begin his pilgrimage around the country in the lead-up to his enthronement next Thursday. The chatter stopped as we strained to hear our new Archbishop deliver his speech and pray for the city of Norwich, after which he set off on the next part of his journey to the cathedral.

Just before he left, the bells from St Peter Mancroft church rung and they were extremely loud! Whilst standing on the steps outside the forum, we asked the Archbishop how he felt and he replied “Absolutely amazing!”

This was an amazing experience, one I will remember for many years to come.