The Archdeacons’ Visitation Dates 2026
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.
Licensing of Mark Fraser as Rector of St Leonard’s Wollaton
Last Sunday evening was a wonderful service at St Leonard’s Wollaton, where Mark Fraser was licensed by Bishop Paul and inducted and installed as Rector by Archdeacon Phil Williams. It was wonderful to be joined by many people from Mark’s previous parish, St Luke’s Gamston, to celebrate and recognise the continuation of Mark’s ministry in a new parish. Archdeacon Phil Williams spoke on Philippians 3:4b–14 and highlighted the importance of knowing Christ above any other credentials. He focused particularly on verses 10–11:
Bishop’s Study Day 2026
Wednesday 4th March was an inspiring day as over 150 clergy and key lay leaders from across the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham gathered at St Mary's Church, Nottingham for the annual Bishop’s Study Day for a day of worship, prayer, and teaching. The morning began with a warm welcome from Amanda Lees and Tors Ramsey, who facilitated the event. This was followed by opening prayers led by Andy Emerton for the Middle East and for the Diocese of Guildford following the death of Andrew Watson, and a spirit-filled time of worship. "Since, then,
Good News Spotlight: Over 100 Volunteers Gather as Woven Church Unveils Refurbished Hall
Woven Church, a family of eight local churches working together across Nottingham, welcomed more than 100 volunteers to the newly refurbished St Margaret’s Church Hall in early February. The celebration marked a significant milestone, as this is the first of the diocesan Church Growth Programme building projects to be completed. The Church Growth Programme is funded by the Church of England’s Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment Board as part of a decade long programme building on fruitful mission and ministry in
Licensing of Rachael Burn as Priest-In-Charge of the Benefice of St Peter and St Paul West Hucknall
Tuesday evening was a special service of celebration at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hucknall, where Rachael Burn was licensed by Bishop Andy and inducted and installed as priest by Archdeacon, Tors Ramsey. The congregation was joined by many supporters from Newstead deanery and from St Mary’s Church, Hucknall, where Rachael served her curacy. Some of the children helped lead the congregation in actions to one of the songs. During the service, Bishop Andy read from the Gospel of Matthew 11:1–10 and delivered a powerful sermon, reminding the congregation
Pancake Celebration Stories
It was great to see pancake celebrations taking place across parishes in the diocese on Shrove Tuesday, bringing together families and the community. Below are some highlights! St Margaret's Bilsthorpe It was a fun-filled and well-attended Pancake Party at St Margaret’s, Bilsthorpe on Tuesday evening. Guests enjoyed an exciting raffle, a quiz, and even the chance to try their hand at making their own pancakes. There was an abundance of pancakes and toppings to enjoy, including gluten-free options, kindly prepared by the hardworking
Good News Spotlight: Young People Achieve Bronze Eco Award for St Mary Magdalene Sutton-In-Ashfield
St Mary Magdalene is proud to have achieved the A Rocha Bronze Eco Church Award, an introductory certification recognising churches in England and Wales that demonstrate a foundational commitment to environmental stewardship and caring for creation. The church’s Eco Church journey began in September 2025 and was successfully completed in December 2025. The project was driven by a group of young people passionate about caring for creation, bringing together a collaborative effort between the youth and the Parochial Church Council (PCC). Adam
Racial Justice Sunday Marked at St Nic’s
Racial Justice Sunday took place on 8 February 2026 across the country, with this year’s theme, “Love Your Neighbour,” exploring how we can challenge hostility and promote inclusion within our communities. Bishop Paul visited St Nic’s Nottingham, a church known for its vibrant and intercultural congregation. The service reflected this diversity, with an international flavour that included prayers spoken in two languages and parts of the readings shared in Farsi, Cantonese, and Spanish. Preaching on Ephesians chapter 2, Bishop Paul reflected on how
Apprentice Track 2026/27 Applications Now Open!
We’re pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026/27 year of The Apprentice Track. The Apprentice Track is an opportunity for 18-30s to spend a year committing to the journey to learning what it means to know your identity in Jesus, become like Him and live our lives his way in every area of life. There are four exciting pathways available, and whether you're considering our full-time internship or one of our part-time programmes, there's a place
Encouraging Stories from FUEL Gatherings Across the Diocese
FUEL is a monthly evening gathering that brings together youth groups from across Nottinghamshire to worship, pray, and hear a Bible message. FUEL Central was originally started by Trinity Church Nottingham and Tanya Wilson (Emerging Generations Pastor at Trinity), and the vision has since grown across the diocese, with gatherings now taking place in Newark, Worksop and Wilford. These evenings provide opportunities for young people, including those new to faith, to encounter Jesus and grow together in community. Its been so