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York: Discoveries found beneath York Minster have filled part of the undocumented 400 year gap between the Romans leaving Brittan to the Vikings arrival. A 2012 dig in the Undercroft uncovered an archaeological excavation which revealed clues about the structure, population, and settlements before the Vikings invasion. Archaeologists went deep within the 2000 year old site to find some hidden treasures. “We actually struck gold – and silver – by finding Viking-Age human bones, Norman foundations and an extremely rare AngloSaxon coin that reveals a huge amount about York during the early 9thcentury,” said Stuart Harrison, Cathedral Archaeologist for York Minster. This “underground exhibit” will be opened to visitors this summer. CofE: During a difficult time for farmers, The Bishop of Wakefield, the Rt Rev Stephen Platten, asks for prayer in food production by backing Enough Food for Everyone If campaign. Due to the damages from weather, farmers are facing a 50% income loss. The Bishop hopes the government, companies, and citizens will come together in ending world hunger and food waste. “The world produces enough food for everyone, yet nearly a billion people are starving,” said Bishop Stephen. “If we all work together we can make dramatic progress towards ending global hunger – IF. But we must not forget those who produce that food.” Sheffield: In observing the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Aspergers’ Syndrome, Rotherham hosted a special service this past Sunday. Autism affects communication and development for an entire lifespan. Aspergers is a form of Autism. Those affected by this will be remembered during this service. Canon David Bliss, Vicar of Rotherham, led the service attended by The Lord Lieutenant for South Yorkshire and the Mayor of Rotherham. In leading the service, Canon Bliss said, “I am so pleased that we are able to hold this service again...I also hope that the literature display that we have in the Minster will be helpful to people to have a greater understanding of Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and of the work of the National Autistic Society.” Hereford: With the recent celebration of Marriage Week, Hereforshire has continued the excitement by hosting their first wedding show. They hope couples eager for marriage will check out the event and see the “possibilities.” Local sponsors who are aiding the show include: Hair, Make-up & Nails, Hats & Jewellery, Bridal Wear & Gifts, Vintage Cars, photographers & Florists, Catering & Cakes and much more. “There are lots of wedding shows at venues all over the County and beyond,” said the vicar, Rana Davies James. “We thought that it would be nice to do something similar but show people what a church wedding could look like. We want couples to get married here.” St. Mary’s Church will be decorated for a wedding and the Primary School will continue the rest of the show. St. Mary’s Wedding Fayre, with stallholders’ catering, will be held 2 March from 11:30am until 4pm at the village church and school. If you wish to exhibit, please email rana.james@virgin.net for a booking form. Southwell: At the annual service for homeless charity, an art exhibition, donated by Geoff Ball and Co, was held at Southwell Minster two weeks ago. The works covered those who were aided by charity in the East Midlands. Curator Helen Sills, who is also a Framework board member, explained: “The power of artistic expression in the lives of homeless and vulnerable people cannot be underestimated. The simple act of creating art work can greatly enhance self esteem and confidence.” Visitors were able to gain a deeper understanding of the need for these people.