Lancashire Christians Celebrate Diocese of Blackburn’s Centenary Event

Blackpool Hosts Vibrant Celebration for Diocese of Blackburn’s Centenary

In a remarkable show of faith and unity, over 1,000 Christians gathered in Blackpool last weekend to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Church of England’s Diocese of Blackburn. The event, known as “The Big Day Out,” attracted worshippers from across Lancashire, drawing families, clergy, and church groups for a day filled with music, worship, and community activities under the theme “All for Jesus.”

The celebration took place against the iconic backdrop of Blackpool Tower, with many tourists stopping to witness the vibrant performances and join in the worship. The morning session was dedicated to families at Blackpool Church St John’s, where children engaged in singing, storytelling, and crafts focused on Jesus. Simultaneously, a youth zone at St John’s Church of England Primary School offered games, inflatables, and food for young attendees.

Throughout the day, St John’s Square resonated with live music and stage performances, providing ample opportunities for fellowship and conversation. Attendees enjoyed a complimentary hog roast lunch while watching filmed testimonies from Christians across Lancashire sharing their journeys to faith.

During the main worship event, the Bishop of Blackburn, Rt Rev Philip North, addressed the crowd, stating: “Jesus sacrifices everything to find you. His plan for you is joy. That’s why Jesus went to the cross; why Jesus risks everything. So, in our centenary year, and every year, we are ‘All for Jesus’ because Jesus is all for us.”

Participants, including Rev Ian Sarginson and Narina Harborne from Buckshaw Village Church, expressed joy in gathering with fellow Christians to honor the Diocese’s milestone. Others commended the atmosphere and organization, with Sally Johnson from Christ Church Thornton praising the volunteers for their patience and kindness.

Rev Grace Gaze, Rector of Bowland Benefice, described the event as “a huge joy,” while Rev Matt Gaze, Curate from St Paul’s Hoddlesden and St Barnabas’ Darwen, lauded it as “an awesome day.”

The afternoon worship was led by the Bishop of Lancaster, Rt Rev Dr Jill Duff, alongside Rev Andy Dykes from Blackpool Church St John’s, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event. Rev Steve Haskett, Blackburn Diocese’s Director of Mission, highlighted the joy and faith evident throughout the day, expressing gratitude to the volunteers and local organizers.

This celebration forms part of a larger series of events planned for 2026 to mark the Diocese of Blackburn’s centenary. Reflecting on the day, Bishop North expressed hope that the event would inspire churches across Lancashire to share the Christian message with renewed confidence.

“In all the laughter, fun and conversations, in the acts of welcome and in the worship, there has been a real sense of God’s presence among us,” he remarked. “As we look to the future, my prayer is that this day will be deeply significant and encourage us to go on sharing that same hope with confidence – knowing that the love of Jesus Christ is for every person and every community in Lancashire.”