Even in the darkest valleys there is light – Baptism Stories
It’s been great to hear of some wonderful stories of baptisms across our diocese last month, including 4 adults and 1 youth baptism St Ann with Emmanuel Church and 2 youth baptisms at St Johns Bilbrough Woven. In both churches those being baptised were surrounded by their church community to pray and celebrate with them on this significant moment in their life. We’ve shared a couple of the encouraging stories below from St Ann’s Church: "Faith has always been a part
Start the Month in February with Bishop Paul and Sarah (177) – 7th February 2025
Join Bishop Paul and Sarah for an encouraging Start the Month reflection for February, as they explore Psalm 40. There can be moments of life that feel like a perpetual winter—times of stress, uncertainty, sadness, or despair that seem like they have no end. But Psalm 40 reminds us to be patient in hope, looking for the signs of a spiritual spring ahead. In these times, we’re called to renew our trust and faith in God, remembering all he has
Stories of Living Hope Account Launched!
We’re delighted to share that this month we’ve launched our Stories of Living Hope account on Instagram. Since the launch of our refreshed vision in 2024, we’ve had the joy of collecting stories of hope and transformation from across Nottinghamshire and beyond. We believe in the power of testimony and the way it can inspire and encourage others to go deeper in their faith. From experiences of walking into church for the very first time, to growing up in challenging
Testimonies of hope and faith at St Helen’s Stapleford
'I want to live my life according to Jesus' teachings and help everyone I can along the way' It was such an encouraging evening at St Helen's on Sunday 26th January as 7 candidates were confirmed by Bishop Paul in a special confirmation service. In front of a packed congregation, each person being confirmed stepped forward to share their moving testimonies of faith. In one of the stories, a candidate shared: 'I am appreciating more and more the enormity of God's mighty
Inspiring Worship Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJWCt9Imgdw In a video created for last year's Diocesan Conference, leaders from across our diocese share their experiences of inspiring worship across contexts and traditions. Through contemplative prayer, sacramental practices, songs of praise, and moments of reflection, worship becomes a space for transformation, connection, and restoration. Whether feeling the presence of God in quiet moments of stillness or experiencing the unity of the Eucharist, each story reflects a powerful journey of encountering God. Join us as we celebrate how worship—across various forms and expressions—draws us
Revd Dr James Saunders inducted and installed as vicar of St Mary’s Nottingham
‘I pray that you will be a church where the Wisdom of God is made known, in your worship, your prayers, your service to the people of Nottingham, and in your compassionate, confident and courageous mission, above all in Growing Disciples in partnership with churches across this city.” Tuesday evening was a significant evening in the city as Revd James Saunders was inducted and installed as vicar of St Mary's Church, Nottingham. The words above are from Bishop Paul's sermon during the
Christmas Stories Part 2
With less than a week to go until Christmas, there have been so many stories of hope, peace, love and joy in our parishes this Advent. From carolling trams to overflowing services, parish retreats and creative school visits. Read below for some of the encouraging stories across our Diocese. The Carolling Tram - St Wilfrid's, Wilford In partnership with the Nottingham Express Transit team, Revd Jacob Tyers and a group from St Wilfrid's in Nottingham gathered together at Clifton South tram-stop
December’s Diocesan Day of Prayer
Amongst the often busy season of Advent, Thursday 12th was a special day of prayer set aside for the Diocese. Each month churches and schools are encouraged to pray together as we seek God's Living Hope for the city, towns and villages of Nottinghamshire and beyond. City Prayer - Council House, Market Square Thursday began at 7:00am in the Council House, right in the centre of the city. Nottingham City Prayer is a monthly gathering for churches across denominations to
23 Candidates Confirmed in Southwell Minster
November 24th was such a joyful morning as we celebrated the confirmation of 23 candidates at Southwell Minster as part of the festival of Christ the King (the last Sunday before Advent). This was a particularly special occasion as the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell led and preached at the service, as part of his missionary visit to the Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham. Every person who comes forward for confirmation brings a powerful story of testimony of God at work
A statement from the Bishop of Southwell & Nottingham, the Rt Revd Paul Williams.
Following the publication of the Makin review last week and the terrible abuse it identified along with failures to act in a way that would prevent further abuse, I fully respect and understand Archbishop Justin's decision to resign today, taking personal and institutional responsibility for the failures disclosed in the review. His decision in light of the review should serve to emphasise the responsibility we already have to continue implementing the important changes in the culture and safeguarding leadership that are