THE Bishop of Chelmsford marked the start of the Easter weekendby shining the shoes of passing shoppers.
Giving the Bible's 'Washing of the Feet' story a modern twist,Bishop Stephen, polished and buffed the feet of anyone who walkedhis way.
And he definitely got his hands dirty as a queue of eager passers-by stopped for a shine.
Bishop Stephen, 52, said: "Maundy Thursday is when the Churchremembers the description of Jesus washing the feet of hisdisciples, shortly before his crucifixion.
"This is a more modern interpretation as people can relate toshoe shining easier.
"It's a great way to get people involved in the Bible story andremind them what Easter is really about."
Therapeutic And having bought his traditional shining equipmentoff the internet, the Bishop soon found his stride, adding: "I'vefound the whole process quite therapeutic. "Not so many youngstersshine their shoes nowadays but for others it was an important partof getting ready."
Bernis Pinder, 53, said: "This is something I used to do when Iwas a young boy.
"I'm originally from the Bahamas and before Mass every Sunday Iwould get up and between 7 and 9am shine shoes.
"It was my first job.
"So I'm a professional and think the Bishop has done a greatjob."
Jackie Tulip, 50, said: "I was just having a coffee when I sawthe Bishop set up.
"I think it's a good idea and although I knew it was MaundyThursday and I don't follow the Church.
"But I really like that the old story has been given a moderntwist."
Bobby Harrington, 73, of Broomfield, said: "I think it'swonderful. "The whole idea is excellent, but I think we should havedone it for the Bishop.
"It's a great way for people to find out about the Bible story."
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