A message from Bishop Paul following the death of Pope Francis
We are saddened to hear of the death of Pope Francis today. Bishop Paul has shared: “Pope Francis has been an inspiration to the Church all across the world. His humility, joy and compassion in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ have made a deep and lasting impression on Christian people everywhere. My prayers are with all who mourn the death of Pope Francis, especially for Roman Catholics across our county and my dear friend Bishop Patrick McKinney who leads the
Bishop Paul’s Easter Sermon in Southwell Minster
In Bishop Paul's Easter sermon in the cathedral, he said, “because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, there is always hope.” “With all that is happening in our world at the moment, and maybe in our lives too, we need the Easter story as much as ever. Here is the true story of hope over despair, light over darkness, and the power of love over hatred, because of Jesus.” "Our Easter faith is about the love of God
The Archdeacons’ Visitation Dates
Every year, the Archdeacons’ Visitations take place. These are formal church services, during which Churchwardens across each Archdeaconry are admitted. Archdeacon Tors Ramsey and Archdeacon Phil Williams gave thanks for the invaluable contribution churchwardens have made as well as celebrated those who are about to step into a new role.
Baptisms and Confirmations at St Mary’s Radcliffe-on-Trent
"I am writing this to share how Jesus has transformed my life in ways that words can barely express." The first Sunday in March was a joyful day in Radcliffe-on-Trent with 2 youth baptisms in the morning and 9 confirmations in the evening. The day started with a real sense of excitement in the morning service, as two brothers were getting ready to be baptised. Revd Carl Brooks-Plunkett (curate at St Mary's) led the service, and welcomed the family to the
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