A selection of readings and prayers of thanksgiving, dedication and asking for God’s blessing for same-sex couples can be used in Church of England services for the first time from Sunday 17th December.
In the lead-up to Christmas, it has been wonderful to see the many ways in which our churches, chaplaincies and schools are sharing the joy of Advent with their communities.
As focal leaders are now active in parts of the diocese, we have been finding out what the role entails. This week we spoke to Alan Davey, who has been attending St Paul’s in Rawtenstall for three decades.
Over in Manchester North and East Deanery, Mission Community 3 have been co-creating a Sacred Space and worshipping community with young people in the area.
This year’s Foundations for Ministry participants enjoyed a wonderful retreat day this week at All Saints, Elton.
In spring 2022, just a few weeks before work began on repointing and waterproofing the church tower at St Luke’s, Heywood, the clock on the tower was damaged by strong winds.
Last year, along with Trinity Baptist Church, Bacup and the ABD Community Centre, Christ Church with St John responded to the energy price increase and cost of living crisis by providing a Warm Space in Bacup.
On Sunday, hundreds gathered at Bolton Parish Church for a joyous service of singing, dancing, and prayer to celebrate five years of the Children Changing Places Project.
Revd Derek Allen has been serving in Rossendale for around thirty years.
Sandra Morris, Man Dio Growing Faith Deanery Worker explains more about this special event.
