Since Christmas Day, we have had the pleasure of sharing a series of heartfelt reflections from a diverse group of clergy and lay people from across our diocese. These reflections, filmed in front of the beautiful Christmas tree at Manchester Cathedral, were designed to capture the spirit and themes of the Christmas season. Each short film highlighted a unique aspect of this special time of year, offering messages of hope, joy, peace, and love to inspire and uplift our community.
As part of our celebration of the Twelve Days of Christmas, we released a new video each day, featuring contributions from a variety of voices across the diocese. From personal stories to reflections on scripture, these videos showcased the richness of perspectives within our community, while reminding us all of the deeper meanings and blessings of the Christmas season.
Now, as we celebrate the Feast of Epiphany and release the final reflection in this series, we invite you to revisit these thoughtful contributions. We have compiled all twelve videos into one article, allowing you to watch back and reflect on the season's themes at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to revisit a favourite moment or catch up on any you may have missed, this collection offers an opportunity to continue celebrating the message of Christmas as we move into the new year.
Navigate to each video using the quick links below!
25th December - Christmas Day message
Bishop David invites us to pause and reflect on the simple yet profound message of the angels to the shepherds in Bethlehem: "I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people."
26th December - St Stephen's Day
Bishop Mark shares a reflection for St Stephen's Day.
27th December - Feast of St. John the Evangelist
Jo Haslam, Early Years Adviser in the Man Dio Growing Faith team, shares a reflection for the Feast of St John the Evangelist.
28th December - Holy Innocents
Gani Martins, Parish Safeguarding Officer, shares a reflection for Holy Innocents
29th December - Beauty in Waiting
Pippa Bull, Student Pastor at Fabric Church, shares a reflection on finding beauty in waiting.
30th December - Favourite Carol
Ima Lomax, Deanery Transformation Support Officer for Bury and Rossendale and Bolton deaneries, shares her reflection on Good News and sings her favourite hymn.
31st December - Thank you message
As we prepare to celebrate New Year's Eve, Bishop David shares a message of gratitude.
1st January - Happy New Year
Kim Morgan-Jones, Head of Lay Development, shares a reflection for New Year's Day.
2nd January - New Year Resolutions and Eco commitments
Revd Canon Grace Thomas shares a reflection on New Year Resolutions and Eco Commitments.
3rd January - Walking with God
Angela Pratt, a member of St Mary the Virgin, Leigh and participant in the Foundations for Ministry course, shares a reflection on walking with God as we head into the new year.
4th January - For Those Who Struggle
Revd Cath Eccles, Pioneer Curate The Mission Church in Shakerley shares a reflection for those who struggle at this time of year.
5th January - Preparing to restart school
As children and young people around the country prepare to return to school Rick Otto, Diocesan Children's Officer, shares this reflection.
6th January - Epiphany
The Very Revd Rogers Govender shares a reflection for the Feast of the Epiphany
This reflection series was filmed at Manchester Cathedral with the help of their amazing team.
On the morning of the filming, we also helped film the Church of England's Midnight Mass service, hosted by Canon Grace Thomas. You can watch the full video below hosted on the Church of England's YouTube channel: