This Christmas was a very busy – and very joyful – time for the Church, with a whole host of events, services, and performances to celebrate the good news of Jesus’ birth and to bring in the New Year.
Below, we’ve put together a round-up of a few of our favourite moments from this year's Christmas festivities for you to enjoy!
Bishop Stephen was as busy as ever this Christmas Season as he covered 240 miles and made 13 visits across the Salisbury Diocese in just two days.
On the topic of his journey, Bishop Stephen commented that he was: “in total admiration of our amazing clergy dealing with deep community and wonderful worship on busy, busy days. Take a bow Team, and some time off after you have proclaimed the GOOD NEWS!”
The Bishop also spent some time this Christmas urging us all to act this year to support others and to remember that God is within the palm of our hands. The message on Christmas Day [insert link} was shared alongside the artwork of a year one pupil which depicts Jesus in a manger, cradled in her palm print.
Bishop Karen prayed that 2023 will bring peace in Europe and that issues of poverty, fair wages and inequality will be tackled whilst wishing all a Happy New Year.
Elsewhere, Revd John Rees of the Canalside benefice rejoiced in the privilege of ministry in the Salisbury Diocese this Christmas Season, as his busy schedule took him far and wide.
From supporting bereaved families, enjoying carols at Marlborough College for the Air Ambulance, praying at a bedside vigil, taking Christingle services, and leading Christmas Communions, John had a very busy but most enjoyable Christmas!
Sophie Ferguson, Trainee Ordinand at Sarum College in the Salisbury Diocese also had a busy time this Christmas as she worked to organise her first-ever nativity with the help of her husband as the Angel Gabriel, and her young son as one of the three kings.
Meanwhile, Director of Mission and Ministry, Jonathan Triffitt was at the packed Sherborne Abbey for Midnight Mass this year. One of his favourite services and a time of joy to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
There was some more good news for Brother Alasdair Kay on Christmas morning as well, as he was thrilled to look at the morning’s register and see more people coming to worship in Wyke Parish than they did prior to Covid-19.
It has been a busy but rewarding time for all who took part within our Diocese this Christmas, leading Revd Andy Perry to leave us with a quote from Isaiah 40:31.
“But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength - they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.”
That’s it for this year’s round-up, we hope you’ve had a refreshing break and we wish you a very happy and blessed New Year!