There is a sign on the door of St Mary’s Parish Church in West Moors which often invites comment from those attending weddings, funerals, and other parish events. It is the Roma Chakra and it is the church’s way of saying that the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller community are always welcome through its doors.
St Mary’s has a long and proud history of supporting the Traveller community in West Moors, but in particular during the tenure of Revd Andy Muckle, the present vicar. Andy has made it a particular focus of his ministry to reach out to the community and has been part of the group that supports the work of Revd Jonathan Herbert the Diocesan Chaplain to the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller community.
A common sight in West Moors is Andy leading a funeral procession, walking through the Town from the church to West Moors Cemetery, where the Traveller community has a strong historical association. Andy has also been involved in advocacy work for the community, particularly in regard to recognising the distinctive nature of Traveller memorials in the Town Cemetery. It is an area of ministry that Andy and the church are proud to support.
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Community – St Mary’s Parish Church West Moors – A Church Near You
