31st December
John Wyclif: Today we recall the life of one of the churches great reformers. We thank God for the vision we have to share the Living Hope of Christ and grow disciples and for the year ahead as we seek to introduce new people to Jesus Christ as our Lord. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kwara – The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
30th December
The first ‘quiet day’ of the week, with no feast day. Take a few minutes today to be thankful for things that can be celebrated from the last week. We remember those who have not been able to see family and friends as they have been caring for others and serving in the emergency services. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kutgi – The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
29th December
St Thomas Becket, Martyr: Today we commemorate another martyr. We give thanks for Thomas’s gift of faith. Please pray today for those who are victims of aggression. Please also pray for The Episcopal Church.
28th December
The Holy Innocents: This sombre commemoration of the death of the young is a sharp counterpoint to the celebration of new birth. Please pray today for those who are victims of aggression. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kushtia – The Church of Bangladesh.
27th December
St John, Apostle and Evangelist: ‘The Word was made Flesh and Dwelt Among Us’. With these words John acclaims, the Incarnation of God and Man. Today, we are thankful for John’s gift and for all evangelists in the Church. Pray for Christians in other denominations and the work of the ecumenical movement. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kurunegala – The Church of Ceylon (Extra Provincial).
26th December
St Stephen, Deacon, First Martyr: Today we recall the first Christian martyr. Someone will lose their life today because they proclaim Christ. In the midst of celebrations, take a moment today to reflect upon this and pray for those who do not count the cost in being a sacrificial offering. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kumi – The Church of the Province of Uganda.
Bishop Paul’s Christmas Sermon from Southwell Minster
‘How our hearts can find a home and be at rest in God’s love at Christmas’ In his Christmas sermon at the Midnight Communion in the Cathedral on Christmas Eve, Bishop Paul spoke about the way God’s peace can help our hearts to find rest and a true home in the love of Christ. He posed the question: “How do we find the peace about which the angels sang, when so many things in our lives and world seem to conspire to make
25th December
The greatest birth in history is celebrated today. We pray for all Christians across the world with whom we have links as the Saviour of the world is acclaimed. O Come Let Us Adore Him! Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem and the People of Bethlehem. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kumasi – The Church of the Province of West Africa.
24th December
As we prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we pray for ourselves that we might invite Him to be born again in us as we grow as disciples. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kuching – Church of the Province of South East Asia.
23rd December
We pray for We pray for those who work in hospitality around our diocese at this busy time of year. Please also pray for The Diocese of Kubwa – The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).