An appeal has been made to find families connected to an annual tradition at a Blidworth church.

The Rockings Ceremony takes place at St Mary of the Purification every February.

The church is believed to be the only place in the world that still celebrates the presentation of baby Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem.

The boy who is born nearest to Christmas Day in the parish of Blidworth, and who is baptised, is rocked in a specially-decorated cradle in a Medieval ceremony that was reintroduced in February 1922.

The baby represents baby Jesus, who was taken to the temple, according to Jewish tradition. (Luke 2: 22-40)
A centenary celebration weekend is to take place on 5th and 6th February to mark the reinstitution of the Rockings Ceremony.

The church, Blidworth and District Historical and Heritage Society, and Blidworth Parish Council are joining together for the celebrations.

A spokesman said: “We are searching for any family who was, or is, connected to any of the babies whose names are on the Rockings roll at the back of St Mary’s Church, in order to invite them to take part in this weekend of celebrations in the village and the church.

“Do get in touch with any information, newspaper cuttings or photographs, or contact details of anyone you know who might be connected to these families.”

Anyone who can help should contact the United Benefice of Blidworth and Rainworth at [email protected] or Blidworth and District Historical and Heritage Society at [email protected] or Blidworth Parish Council at [email protected].