2010:365:193 The Twelfth.

It was hard to pick one photograph for 365Project today - so this collage was added.  To give an impression of The Twelfth in Belfast is no easy task.
The banners are impressive.

Oliver Cromwell is carried alongside biblical scenes.

Some of the figures from church history take their place

with events from secular history.

Most of the lodges have bands, either one that belongs to their district or one hired in for the day.

This very smart group travelled from Kilkeel.

It's a long walk to the field and these little guys, already footsore and weary, hitched a lift in one of the taxis used by older members of the lodge who can no longer manage to do the journey.

Some transport was a little more "classy".

Flutes in the parade are numerous.

Uniforms range from the extremely smart to almost casual.

There were some accordion bands represented as well. 

I always wanted to play the accordion - a number of my relatives were in bands and this was their instrument. 

On a warm day with a long walk.... I'm not so sure.

Lots of children take part, some as junior leaders, others playing instruments and this little pair had dressed up - I'm not sure who they were representing but they walked valiantly with the parade. 

Clearly those in the bands were well trained and took their job seriously. 

Visitors joined the parade too.  This lodge was one of a number that had come over from Scotland. 

The folk beside whom I was standing appeared to know a number of members of various lodges and bands.

From time to time someone stopped for a quick greeting. 

In between times my neighbours enjoyed a refreshing drink (or two)!

For most groups it was short-sleeve order.  Although the sun wasn't beating down it was certainly a pleasant morning.

I imagine that those who were wearing heavier uniforms found it a bit of a challenge at times.

And those carrying flags and banners must at times have longed for the rest that they'd get in the field. 

It is always good to see friends in the parade and Eliot and I had to do a bit of a run to get a proper photograph of this man!  I'd forgotten to open the shutter when his lodge passed by - so we hot footed it along the Avenue to pass them and get a second attempt!

Colour, good humour, community, fun, music (of a particular sort) and a holiday atmosphere were all part of the bit of the parade that I saw.  Eliot was with me and attracted his own attention which of course he lapped up!

Blessed are you, Sovereign God,

our light and our salvation;

to you be glory and praise for ever!

You led your people to freedom

by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

May we who walk in the light of your presence

acclaim your Christ, rising victorious,

as he banishes all darkness from our hearts and minds,

and praise you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit:

Blessed be God for ever!

Celebrating Common Prayer

Evening Prayer - Form 1