Bishop Paul’s Advent & Christmas Message 2022
In Bishop Paul's Advent & Christmas message for 2022, against the backdrop of a difficult year for many across the world and closer to home, he speaks about how "fear may stalk in the darkness of our sorrow and sadness or our uncertainties about the future, but it need not overwhelm us because the light of Christ, the Everlasting Light, shines in the darkness and his perfect love can cast out all fear."
Church School Leaders Conference: Courageous Advocacy
Over 100 delegates and stall holders gathered at The Hayes Conference Centre for the annual Diocesan Church School Leaders Conference which this year explored the theme of ‘Courageous Advocacy’.
Revd Ruth Colby is Licensed as Rector of the Fosse Group
The Reverend Ruth Colby was licensed as Rector of the Fosse Group Benefice by the Archdeacon of Nottingham, the Ven Phil Williams, acting on behalf of Bishop Andy. Revd Ruth was originally licensed as Priest-in-charge of the parishes on 2nd October 2019 in anticipation of the Pastoral Scheme that would create the new benefice. Last night’s service was a celebration of all that had been achieved in the first three years of Ruth's ministry in East Bridgford, Kneeton, Flintham, Car Colston and
Bishop Paul speaks on the Public Order Bill
The Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Bishop Paul Williams has challenged the government in a debate on the Public Order Bill. The controversial proposed legislation is passing through the House of Lords. It make provisions for new offences relating to public order, to stop and search powers and to police functions relating to public order. In the debate on the Committee stage of the proposed legislation, Bishop Paul supported an amendment asked the government to define more clearly what would constitute ‘serious
Start the Day on First Fridays with Bishop Paul and Sarah (147) – 4th November 2022
Southwell is looking beautiful early this morning in the autumn light as Bishop Paul and Sarah bring a Start the Day message for November, reading from Psalm 105 they reflect on where to find strength when you are weary and remembering God’s faithfulness in all situations.
Mothers’ Union: Away From It All Holidays
Southwell & Nottingham Mothers’ Union offer Away From It All (AFIA) – a holiday scheme that helps families take a break from daily stresses. They send around 12 families every year who haven’t had a holiday in three years.
Admission & Licensing of Lay Ministers 2022
On Saturday 8 October, we welcomed twelve candidates who were licenced as lay ministers by Bishop Andy Emerton, the Bishop of Sherwood, during a service held at Southwell Minster.
The Diocese Earns Our Bronze Eco Award
We are delighted to be able to announce that the diocese has achieved Bronze Eco Diocese status with A Rocha UK, the Christian environmental charity. This follows on from Jubilee House’s Silver Award during the summer.
The National Past Cases Review 2 (PCR2) Report
The ‘Past Cases Review 2’ (PCR2) is a national independent review of the handling of safeguarding cases in the Church of England over many years. The purpose of the PCR2 is to ensure that all known cases of concerns about the behaviour of clergy and church officers towards children and vulnerable adults have been dealt with appropriately.
Diocesan Synod – 1 October 2022
Diocesan Synod met at Christ Church Worksop, with the Archdeacon of Nottingham leading worship. Gill Rand read from Luke chapter 10. Bishop’s Address Bishop Paul’s address can be read here. Church Response to Challenging Times The Revd David McCoulough reflected on the challenges of the pandemic and those being experienced at present, sharing examples of how churches have and are responding to serve their local communities, whilst sharing the love of God as members deepen their own discipleship. The Revd Nikki Bates shared how