| Where: | Harpham, East Yorkshire at St John's Church on Crossgates and St John's Well on Outgates |
| When: | Thursday nearest 7th May |
| Time: | 6.30 for Procession at Church, 7pm at the Well |
St John of Beverley was an important Northumbrian bishop in the late 6th/early 7th century and his feast day is 7th May; he is associated with many tales of miracles and intercession in battle. John was born at Harpham near Beverley and each year on the nearest Thursday to May 7th, the choir of Beverley Minster join the parishioners at Harpham to mark the occasion with a Procession to the Holy Well associated with the saint on the fringe of the village. The well is decorated for the event, usually with yellow flowers. Prayers are said and a special hymn is sung at the well before all return to the Church for the full service which includes several pieces sung by the choir. Tasty refreshments follow and the night is regarded as a treat by the choristers!
Helpful Hints
In 2024 it should be on Thursday 9th May (to be confirmed).
Sheets are provided at the Church with the words for the Hymn at the Well (which is sung to the tune of For Those in Peril on the Sea).
St John’s feast is also celebrated with a Civic service at Beverley on the Sunday – the saint is buried there at the Minster.
Click here for the Beverley Minster website which includes details of the Harpham service: https://beverleyminster.org.uk
and here for the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BevMin1/
Click here for Harpham contacts: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/19097/
Did you mean 4th? The 8th is a Monday. Thanks in advance. Ron
Indeed I did- thanks!
Is the Patronal festival scheduled for Thursday 9th May this year?
Hi Andrew,
After some earlier fruit;less inquiries I’ve finally found the date and it is indeed confirmed for Thursday 9th May- follow this link to see the entry on the Minster website: https://beverleyminster.org.uk/worship/service-times/#171324433809235-1f782b89-2382
The church service usually follows the well blessing, so I’d advise being at the church between 6 and half past to get the words for the hymns to take with you to the well, and you’ll be able to follow the procession to the well from the church. Hope you enjoy it!
Best wishes,
Averil