PRAYER DIARYO C TO B E R - D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0

www.laundeabbey.org.uk • 01572 717254 • info@launde.org.uk • Charity No: 1140918

Launde Abbey is a retreat house in the heart of the country with God at its centre

Serving the Dioceses ofLeicester and Peterborough

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Retreats Oct - Dec 2020at Launde Abbey

For more information and to book please cal l or see our website

Launde Abbey, East Norton, Le icestershire , LE7 9XB

Please note that due to ongoing restrictions, these retreats may not go ahead or may require reduced numbers – please contact Launde Abbey for more information.

C R E AT I V E B I B L E J O U R N A L L I N G LED BY JACKIE THACKRAY AND KAREN HERRICK 6th-9th Oct

B E G I N N E R S R E T R E AT Led by Helen Newman 9th-11th Oct

G A R D E N I N G W E E K 26th-30th October

D Y I N G T O L I V E LED BY HELEN NEWMAN 2nd-5th November

L O V E R S O F G O D : P R AY I N G W I T H T H E C L O U D O F U N K N O W I N G LED BY CHRIS WEBB 13th-15th November

Y O U , G O D ? A R E T R E AT I N P R E PA R AT I O N F O R A D V E N T LED BY EUAN TAIT 13th-15th November

A D V E N T R E T R E AT: S E E K I N G S O M E S M A L L H E AV E N LED BY IAN ADAMS 23rd-26th November

S T I L L B E F O R E C H R I S T M A S LED BY DAVID NEWMAN 7th-10th December

The COVID19 pandemic has affected different people in different ways - physically, mentally and, of course, spiritually. Some have found it

a challenge to their faith - physically separated from their worshipping community, and perhaps struggling to find any words in prayer that can comprehend the vast scale and impact of the virus. “How can we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?” (Psalm 137:4). Others will have found it a special time to focus on their discipleship, giving them more time to read the Bible, reflect, and meet with God in prayer. They would say their faith has deepened. And of course many others will find themselves on the spectrum in between.

We now move into a period within the diocese of deep listening to God - listening to what he has been saying to us and the wider church throughout the pandemic, and listening for the Spirit’s guidance on how to shape the Church for the future to serve the world and to bring in the kingdom. Here in the diocese, we are doing this under the umbrella of “Shaped by God Together”. Crucially, as the basis of all our discernment, we need to pray - in whatever ways work best for us, and both individually and corporately. We will all need to wait on God in the silence.

Whatever the future holds, God is faithful and will never leave us. God always gives us more than we desire or deserve. Pray too in thanksgiving for that.

www.laundeabbey.org.uk • 01572 717254 • info@launde.org.uk • Charity No: 1140918

FOREWORD FROM THE BISHOP OF LEICESTER

WELCOME

Welcome to the new edition of the diocesan calendar of prayer, which takes us through the autumn and into winter – from harvest to All Saints, Remembrance, Advent and Christmas. If you know of anyone else who would like to receive a paper copy of this document, then please contact the Bishop’s Chaplain as below. It can also be downloaded from www.leicester.anglican.org/everyday-faith/calendar-or-prayer/

Every day we pray for Bishops and our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world using the Anglican Cycle of Prayer and the Porvoo prayer calendar (www.porvoochurches.org) – these are included in italics at the bottom of each day. You will also find one of our own partner dioceses featured every week. The Anglican Communion have changed their practice and now only include the name of the diocesan bishop, asking us to pray for the people, clergy and bishops of the named dioceses.

The key to the parish entries is as follows: C = Clergy; R = Reader; PA = Pastoral Assistant; Pio = Pioneer Minister; Evng = Evangelist; PTO = Permission to Officiate.

Do let the Bishop’s Chaplain know if you’ve got a story to feature on a Sunday in a future edition – with as much notice as possible please! Email Revd Rosie Woodall at bishops.chaplain@leicestercofe.org or phone 0116 270 3390 or send it c/o Bishop’s Lodge.

We are very grateful to Revd Canon Brian Davis for his work on gathering parish prayer requests.

Today is Homeless Sunday. Our Social Responsibility Enabler, Canon Alison Adams, writes:

Homelessness is an issue which tugs at our conscience and causes us to question societal values. It is very complex, both in scope and in how we address it. For example, not all those begging are homeless, nor is it solely an urban issue. Homelessness in Leicester is far less in scale than in other major cities. However, no homeless person is merely a statistic: each has a unique story, hopes and fears.

During lockdown virtually all were accommodated and there are some real success stories of moving long term rough sleepers into permanent accommodation. But that’s not the whole solution. People don’t choose to be homeless, so behind this lie issues which need addressing – mental health or addictions, for example. Being homeless makes these issues harder to resolve, but they don’t go away when accommodation is provided. People coming out of prison or the armed forces are particularly vulnerable, and there is concern that as the economic effects of the pandemic really begin to bite, many

more will find themselves homeless.

In our City and County, agencies are

trying not to return to the pre-lockdown situation. There is energy, vision and determination from both Councils and agencies to create a different future. There are many challenges – lack of affordable quality accommodation, or support and appropriate healthcare for people attempting to rebuild their lives. When you are homeless absolutely everything is far more difficult than most of us could ever imagine.

All this requires partnership. Leicester is proud of its Homelessness Charter, which draws in the voluntary sector, Council, police, NHS, Lieutenancy and business, with the diocese playing a key role. Please support the Give Leicester Campaign which, through its ‘TAP’ giving points in the city, provides a trusted way of directly supporting homeless people, and helps the public better understand the issues.

Please pray for:

• the homeless and vulnerable people you meet

• the agencies working with them, including those particularly known to us such as One Roof Leicester, Sound Café and The Bridge

• Councils and their officers, seeking to effect real change in this area

• those who manage and drive Leicester’s Homelessness Charter

The Anglican Church of Tanzania: Archbishop Maimbo Mndolwa - Archbishop of Tanzania & Bishop of Tanga

SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER TRINITY 17

Bishop D ChandrasekaranPlease pray for the ministry of our partner Diocese of Trichy in India, as the Covid pandemic continues to cause much suffering; and give thanks for those who serve in healthcare.

Peterborough: Bishop Donald Allister;Christ the King (Southern Africa): Bishop William Mostert

MON 5 OCTOBER Diocese of Trichy

Please pray for the Bishop’s Leadership Team residential meeting at Launde Abbey.

Phulbani (North India):Bishop Bijay Nayak;Christchurch (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Peter Carrell;Kolhapur (North India):Bishop Sandeep Vibhute

TUES 6 OCTOBER Bishop’s Leadership Team residential

WED 7 OCTOBER Bishop’s Leadership Team meeting

Please pray for the Bishop’s Leadership Team residential meeting at Launde Abbey.

Polynesia (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia): Archbishop Fereimi Cama;Clogher (Ireland):Bishop John McDowell;Cochin (South India): Bishop Baker Fenn

THURS 8 OCTOBER Bishop’s Leadership Team residential

Vivien Elphick, Rick Tett (C); Debbie Kent (R); David Harrison, Glennys Kerr, Norma Morris-Chapman, Derek Tomlin (R-PTO); Elisabeth Harrison (Evng); Judy Selby (PA); Joan Smith (PA-PTO)St John Moore CE Primary School, Appleby Magna; Snarestone, Measham & Packington CE Primary Schools

Please pray for all involved in mission and ministry in our team and with our local communities.

Popondota (Papua New Guinea): Bishop Lindsley Ihove;Coimbatore (South India): Bishop Timothy Ravinder

FRI 9 OCTOBER The Woodfield Team & Mission Partnership

Pray for those gathering for today’s study day as we are Shaped by God Together.

Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea): Bishop Denny Guka;Colombia (The Episcopal Church): Bishop Francisco Duque;Kollam-Kottarakkara (South India): Bishop Oommen George

SAT 10 OCTOBER Lay ministers study day

Please pray for the Bishop’s Leadership Team residential meeting at Launde Abbey.

Pittsburgh (USA):Bishop Dorsey McConnell;Chubu (Japan): Bishop Peter Ichiro Shibusawa

Prisons Week aims to encourage prayer and awareness of the needs of prisoners and their families, victims of offenders, prisons staff, those working in the justice system, and all those who care, reflected in the Prisons Week Prayer offered throughout the week:

Lord, you offer freedom to all people. We pray for those in prison. Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist. Support with your love prisoners and their families and friends,prison staff and all who care. Heal those who have been wounded by the activities of others, especially the victims of crime. Help us to forgive one another. To act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Christ in His strength and in His Spirit, now and every day. Amen. Each day of the week, a new prayer brings into focus a different group affected by prison or criminal justice. Churches and individuals are also asked to reflect on what they might do or offer as part of their response, through the range of Christian agencies and charities involved in supporting Prisons Week, which is an ecumenical initiative.

Go to https://prisonsweek.org/ to download resources for this week, which runs from 11-17 October 2020.

Within Leicester Diocese we have two men’s prisons – HMP Leicester on Welford Road in the city, and HMP Gartree near Market Harborough. Each prison is served by a multi-faith chaplaincy team,

including volunteers. The COVID pandemic preventedany visitors to any prisons so this has been a particularly challenging time for the inmates, leading to increased mental health issues for the staff and chaplains to respond to.

Please pray for: • all those in prison, especially the innocent

• prison staff and all who work in the justice system

• prison chaplains of all faiths, especially those working in Leicestershire

The Church of the Province of Uganda:The Most Revd Stephen Kaziimba - Archbishop of Uganda & and Bishop of Kampala

SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER TRINITY 18

BishopStanley HotayGive thanks that people are now beginning to return to the churches however, due to the effects of COVID 19, the giving continues to be a real challenge. Please pray that the Lord will provide.Port Sudan (Sudan): Bishop Abdu Kodi; Colombo (Ceylon): Bishop Dhiloraj Canagasabey;Kondoa (Tanzania): Bishop Given Gaula

MON 12 OCTOBER Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro

Mary Gregory, Tim Phillips, Stewart Betts (C); Stephen Clowes, Carol Eyley, Judith Lewis, Andy Smith (R); Sue Brown, David Watson (R-PTO); Kathy Hart (PA)Viscount Beaumont’s School, Coleorton; St Hardulph’s School, Breedon on the Hill; Newbold CE Primary SchoolGive thanks for our growing sense of community through shared online worship during the pandemic. Please pray for the churches which are opening for public worship and those unable to do so; and for Liz Smith, beginning Reader training.Portsmouth: Bishop Christopher Foster;Colorado (USA): Bishop Robert O’Neill;Kongor (South Sudan): Bishop Gabriel Thuch Agot

TUES 13 OCTOBER Ashby de la Zouch & Breedon on the Hill

Pray for those gathering for today’s study day as we are Shaped by God Together.Pretoria (Southern Africa): Bishop Allan Kannemeyer;Concepcion (Chile): Bishop Enrique Zugadi

WED 14 OCTOBER Clergy study day

Michael Fish (C); Peter Hillyar-Russ (R-PTO & P-Evng), Blossom Thompson (PA) Blackfordby & Woodville CE Primary SchoolsThanks to all who support our mission: for Tess Summers running our Messy Church and those connected to the food bank. Please pray for St Margaret’s, recently badly damaged by the storms and in need of major restoration work.Puerto Rico (The Episcopal Church): The Revd Rafael Maldonado;Connecticut (USA): Bishop Ian Douglas; Connor (Ireland): Bishop Alan Abernethy

THURS 15 OCTOBER Blackfordby and Woodville

FRI 16 OCTOBER Clergy with PTO in NW Leicestershire

SAT 17 OCTOBER Living Stones Mission Partnership

Please pray for Lesley Birtwhistle, Stephen Brook, Brenda Campbell, Jennie Drew, Barry Dryden,Paul Harris and Julie-Ann Heath with Permission to Officiate.Pune (North India): Bishop Sharad Gaikwad;Cork, Cloyne & Ross (Ireland): Bishop William Colton

Convenor: Carole BakerAll of our churches are in Vacancy. Please pray for Church Wardens and that the selection and recruitment process will take place soon.Qu’Appelle (Canada): Bishop Robert Hardwick;Costa Rica (Central America): The Revd Orlando Gomez;Kontagora (Nigeria): Bishop Jonah Ibrahim

Today is Anti-Slavery Day. Margaret Rouse, who leads on this work for the diocese, writes:

We have heard a lot about freedom this year. The restrictions designed to protect us from the Covid-19 have deprived us of the freedom to worship in our churches, meet with friends and family or even shop for non-essentials in our towns and cities. People are talking about what they want to do when the restrictions are eased. We hope, that, one day, a vaccine will be developed which will free us from the virus and allow us to live and work, just as we did before lock-down. That is what freedom means to most people in 2020.

However, there are more than 136,000 people in the UK* who will not live normal lives. They are the victims of Modern Day Slavery. Recently, concerns have been raised about the situation in local factories, but victims are everywhere. They are working in

cafes, restaurant kitchens, in nail bars and beauticians, car washes and care homes. They work on farms and building sites. Most employers do not know that they are victims because they have legal papers. They do ordinary jobs but their wages are paid into bank accounts which they cannot use, and they go home to squalid, inadequate accommodation where they live in fear. They are vulnerable people who have been recruited by criminals. Some were targeted outside Job Centres or in hostels. 47% answered advertisements, 7% were recruited in places of worship. They come from all over the world, including the UK. We may be free when lockdown is lifted. But they will not be free. Hebrews 13 tells us to remember those who are ill treated as if we ourselves were suffering. Victims of slavery are men, women and children who are being exploited for the financial gain of other people. They are being ill-treated. *2019 estimate of the number of victims)

The Episcopal Church: The Most Revd Michael Curry - Presiding Bishop

SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER TRINITY 19

Points for prayer: • Leicestershire Police would like to set up a ‘safe house’ as the one they used previously has closed. Pray that somewhere suitable may be available. • Fashion companies will take more care when placing orders and will be more stringent in their enquiries about manufacturing chains

• More public awareness of the problem, and willingness to do something about it.

Bishop John SmyliePray for a good transition for the new Bishop of Wyoming (to be consecrated in February) and for Bishop John and Jill as they prepare for retirement. Pray for the USA in the run-up to the presidential elections on 3rd November. Quebec (Canada): Bishop Bruce Myers;Coventry: Bishop Christopher Cocksworth;Krishna-Godavari (South India): Bishop George Tantepudi

MON 19 OCTOBER Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro

Please pray for Trevor Jordan, Trevor Parkerson, Rhona Passey, Terri Skinner, Edwina Wallace, Richard White, Geoffrey Willett and Haydn Williams with Permission to Officiate.

Raiwind (Pakistan): Bishop Azad Marshall;Cuba (The Episcopal Church): Bishop Griselda Del Carpio;Kubwa (Nigeria): Bishop Duke Akamisoko

TUES 20 OCTOBER Clergy with PTO in NW Leicestershire

WED 21 OCTOBER Guthlaxton DeaneryArea Dean: Sharon Constable; Lay Chair: David BeesonWe give thanks for our diverse Deanery, in the diversity there is a unity of supporting each other! We have lots of vacancies! Please pray for our Deanery as we look to the future of ministry in a changing world.Rajasthan (North India): Bishop Darbara Singh;Cueibet (South Sudan): Bishop Elijah Awet

THURS 22 OCTOBER Four Saints

Liz Bickley, Angela Tarry (C); Carol Higson (R); Roy Oldham (R-PTO) Arnesby & Husbands Bosworth CE Primary SchoolsPlease pray for our six parishes: for a sense of family through this difficult year; that we may still have a sense of mission to our communities; for Arnesby School changing Headteacher at year end.Recife (Brazil): Bishop João Peixoto;Cuttack (North India): Bishop Surendra Nanda

FRI 23 OCTOBER Hexagon Benefice

Jane Micklethwaite (C) Blaby Stokes CE Primary SchoolGive thanks for growth in discipleship through learning to worship differently. Pray for developing partnerships within the community and for our Pioneer ordinand Sharon Plant. Pray for staff and pupils at our School and Pre-School.

Rejaf (South Sudan): Bishop Edward Tombe;Cyangugu (Rwanda): Bishop Francis Karenera;Kuching (South East Asia): Bishop Danald Jute

SAT 24 OCTOBER Blaby

Jo Benner (Interim C); June Ainge (R/Pio); Lindsey Jelves, Mike Oates, Helen Stokes (R), John Frakes (R-PTO); Michael Turton (Evng); Gail Mackley (PA) Give thanks and pray for all who have attended our online Sunday Services and prayer meetings and monthly Messy Church. Pray for whoever will be our next incumbent; and for those in our community missing their normal regular contact.Rayalaseema (South India): Bishop B D Prasada Rao; Cuernavaca (Mexico): Bishop Enrique Cruz;Curitiba (Brazil:) Archbishop Naudal Alves Gomes

In the Common Worship calendar, the Last Sunday after Trinity may be observed as Bible Sunday. When this is also the last Sunday in October, this coincides with Reformation Sunday, commonly observed in the Lutheran tradition.

The Bible, named from the Greek word for ‘book’. The Bible appears in the form of an anthology, a compilation of texts of a variety of forms that are all linked by the belief that they collectively contain the word of God. In total it contains sixty-six books (excluding the apocrypha): the thirty-nine books of the Hebrew Scriptures, called by many the Old Testament, and the twenty-seven books of the Christian Greek Scriptures, often called the New Testament.

Attitudes towards the Bible differ among Christian traditions. Some Protestant churches focus on the idea of sola scriptura, or ‘scripture alone’ as the only infallible source of Christian teaching. This concept rose to prominence during the Reformation. Other churches follow the concept of prima scriptura – while not denying the primary importance of scripture, they also stress the harmony and importance of the Bible with, for example, sacred tradition.

The Bible has had a massive influence on literature and history, especially in the Western world, where the Gutenberg Bible was the first book printed using movable type. But for Christians it is more than that - God still speaks to us through the pages of the Bible where we hear the Word, the

Truth that feeds us on our journey of faith.

Bible Sunday is a day on which churches celebrate the continuing impact the Bible has on individuals and communities throughout the world. The Bible Society provides resources to use, including suggestions of prayers, a sermon based on Psalm 119: 129-136; and activities for church children’s and youth groups. https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/get-involved/bible-sunday/

Please pray: • for those who translate and distribute the Scriptures • for those whose learning interprets the Scriptures, including Biblical scholars and theologians • for all preachers and teachers who proclaim and share the word

The Church in Wales: Archbishop John Davies - Archbishop of Wales & Bishop of Swansea & Brecon

SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER LAST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY/BIBLE SUNDAY

Bishop Isaiah ChambalaThank God for peoples’ generosity in giving to the Eye Clinic work over the summer, despite COVID. Please pray that the full amount will be raised to support this aspect of the diocese’s work, including the means of transport.Remo (Nigeria): Archbishop Michael Fape; Cyprus and the Gulf (Jerusalem & Middle East) Bishop Michael Lewis; Kumasi (West Africa): Archbishop Daniel Sarfo

MON 26 OCTOBER Diocese of Kiteto

Sharon Constable, Laura Jackson (C); Lester Halling, Lynne Vernon (R), Peter Yates (R-PTO); John Bass (PA)Orchard Croft School, Broughton Astley; Manorfield School, Stoney Stanton; Croft CE Primary SchoolYour prayers for discernment of a way we can foster community in all three of our villages. We give thanks for our building projects in each church offering space to community. Our ministry team continues to change and develop with vocations.Renk (South Sudan): Bishop Joseph Garang Atem; Daejeon (Korea): Archbishop Moses Nagjun Yoo;Kumi (Uganda): Bishop Edison Irigei

TUES 27 OCTOBER Broughton Astley & Croft with Stoney Stanton

We pray for the zeal and courage of the apostles to return to the Church today, and for those who turn to God in prayer as a last resort.Rhode Island (USA): Bishop Nicholas Knisely; Dallas (USA): Bishop George R Sumner Jr

WED 28 OCTOBER Simon and Jude, Apostles

Sr Liz Heaton (C); Ann Ling (R-PTO)Ullesthorpe CE Primary SchoolGive thanks that the Benefice has worked together during these challenging times, particularly through online worship. Give thanks for those who have enabled our churches to be open. Pray for discernment and wisdom for the way forward together.Rift Valley (Tanzania): Bishop John Daudi Lupaa;Damaturu (Nigeria): Bishop Yohannah Audu;Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania): Bishop Jackson Sosthenes

THURS 29 OCTOBER Upper Soar

in vacancy; Eric Leese (R), Martin Stevenson (R-PTO) St Peter’s CE Primary School, WhetstonePray for the success of the Parish Centre Renovation Project; for those working on re-opening our facilities so that users can begin to use them again safely. Give thanks for those who have enabled worship to recommence. Rio de Janeiro (Brazil): Bishop Eduardo Grillo; Davao (Philippines): Bishop Jonathan CasiminaBoga (Congo): Bishop Mugenyi Bahemuka; Port Elizabeth (Southern Africa): Bishop Edward Daniels

FRI 30 OCTOBER Cosby & Whetstone

Convenor: Jerry TaylorThe churches ran a Christianity Explored course online in conjunction with Thurlaston Chapel. Engagement was excellent - praise God! Please pray for the Spirit’s work in hearts and minds and wholehearted disciples of Jesus.

Rio Grande (USA): Bishop Michael Vono; Delaware (USA): Bishop Kevin S Brown;Kurunegala (Ceylon): Bishop Keerthisiri Fernando

SAT 31 OCTOBER Enderby & Thurlaston Mission Partnership

Today is All Saints’ Day, when we celebrate the men and women in whose lives the Church has seen the grace of God powerfully at work. We are encouraged by the example of the saints as we see that holiness can grow in the ordinary circumstances, as well as the extraordinary crises, of life.

Here in Leicestershire, we celebrate today our mutual belonging to those ‘saints’ with local connections. There are Anglo-Saxon figures like Guthlac or his sister Pega, or Wistan, who turned down kingship to follow his religious vocation and was martyred for his faith (perhaps at Wistow, hence the name of Wigston). There is John Wycliffe - forerunner of the Reformation, scholar and translator of the Scriptures, who died while Rector of Lutterworth. Others were martyred during the Reformation, including Laurence Saunders, at one time Rector of Church Langton, who was martyred in 1555 and is recorded in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs; and Hugh Latimer, Bishop of Worcester but born at Thurcaston. The priests Bernard Moore and Vivian Redlich, both from Leicestershire, were martyred during WWII in Papua New Guinea.

We could think of those engaged in social action – David James Vaughan, son of the Vicar of St Martin’s who in 1862 founded the Working

Men’s College which at one point was educating 2300 working class men. Or William Wyggeston, whose estate funded an alms-house and grammar school.

Then there are those quiet saints who just got on with it, like the 18th century curate of Stoney Stanton John Bold who is remembered as a man of great sanctity who devoted his ministry to their good of local people. There are even those about whom we know nothing but their name, like St Hardulph of Breedon.

Please pray that:

• the Church may be built on the foundation of those holy men and women that have gone before us

• we may be empowered by the Spirit to witness to Christ through our words and actions especially in our care of the poor and needy, the sick and the dying

The Church of the Province of West Africa: Archbishop Jonathan Bau-Bau Bonaparte Hart - Primate & Metropolitan

SUNDAY 1 NOVEMBER ALL SAINTS’ DAYSt Catherine’s M

onastery, Mount Sinai

SUNDAY 1 NOVEMBER ALL SAINTS’ DAYWe give thanks for all those who we love and see no longer, and pray both for those who mourn and for those who will die today. Rochester: Bishop James Langstaff;Rochester (USA) Bishop Prince Singh;Kushtia (Bangladesh): Bishop Samuel Mankhin

MON 2 NOV A All Souls’ Day

Bishop D ChandrasekaranPray for St Mary’s Church in the village of Puddukkottai, which is twinned with St Mary’s Nanpantan, and particularly for the Rainbow Home for children there.Rockhampton (Australia): in vacancy;Delhi (North India): Bishop Warris K. Masih; Kutigi (Nigeria): Bishop Jeremiah Kolo

TUES 3 NOV Diocese of Trichy

Jerry Taylor, Richard Balmer (C); Mark Brown (R), Cynthia Webb (PA-PTO)Thurlaston CE Primary School & Brockington College Give thanks for the pastoral networks that have sprung up during the pandemic and the engagement in the wider community with online services. Please pray for those who recently attended our Discipleship Explored course online - for growth in maturity.Rokon (South Sudan): Bishop Francis Loyo Mori;Derby: Bishop Libby Lane

WED 4 NOV Enderby with Lubbesthorpe & Thurlaston

Sharon Constable (Interim C); Sharon March, Stephen March (Pio); Keith Wilding (R)Gilmorton Chandler CE Primary School, St Andrew’s CE Primary School, North Kilworth, South Kilworth CE Primary School, Swinford CE Primary SchoolAvon Swift Benefice of eleven churches is looking at new ways of working more usefully together whilst recognising the individuality of each parish in the Benefice. Prayers for discerning the way forward. Prayers for our vacancy and our future. Rorya (Tanzania): Bishop John Adiema;Derry & Raphoe (Ireland): Bishop Kenneth Good;Dhaka (Bangladesh): Archbishop Paul Shishir Sarker

THURS 5 NOV Avon Swift Benefice

Charlie Styles, Tom Brown (C); Ruth Bilton, Peter Kent, Martin Lowdon, Rosemary Lowdon, Lesley Turner (R); Ruth Wagstaff (Evng)Bitteswell CE Primary School, Sherrier CE Primary School, Lutterworth CollegePraise God and rejoice that our benefice churches are now open for gathered worship on Sundays and for private prayer during the week. It is wonderful to see one another again and to meet new worshippers.Ruaha (Tanzania): Bishop Joseph Mgomi;Europe: Bishop Robert Innes;Europe (The Episcopal Church): Bishop Mark D W Edington

FRI 6 NOV Lutterworth with Cotesbach and Bitteswell

in vacancy; Trevor Matthews (R-PTO)Pray for the Church officers carrying extra responsibilities during the vacancy and that the congregation may continue faithful. Give thanks for all clergy taking services. .Rumbek (South Sudan): Archbishop Alapayo Kuctiel;The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands (West Indies): Bishop Laish Boyd;Kwara (Nigeria): Archbishop Olusegun Adeyemi

SAT 7 NOV Narborough

This year has seen the seventy-fifth anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day, marking the end of the Second World War. With the number of veterans from WWII dwindling due to their age and all being in the more vulnerable category, it remains unclear how we will be able to mark Remembrance Sunday this year.

We sometimes have the romantic idea that WWII in particular was won by Britain alone (with support from the USA). It is important that we acknowledge the vital contribution made by servicemen (and women) from across the Commonwealth and beyond as this is our shared history.

In WWI, three million men volunteered (or were conscripted) from across what was then still the British Empire. About half of these were from India, with the remainder coming from parts of Africa, the West Indies, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Their contribution was vital to the war effort – for example, Indian troops were vital in the successful holding of the lines at Ypres in October 1914. Indian Maharajahs sent money, doctors and nurses, and ambulances to the front line. The British Prime Minister Lloyd George said of these international troops, “Had they stayed at home, the history of the world would have taken a different course”.

In WWII around three and a half million service personnel from the Empire served with the Allies.

Again, a large proportion was Indian, but there were also many thousands from Canada, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and other British colonies.

These servicemen fought in all campaigns in which British troops were engaged on land, sea and in the air. Others also volunteered to serve in their own versions of the “Home Guard”. Service personnel who had fled from countries occupied by the Nazis also joined the Allies, including from France, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Netherlands, Norway and Poland.

As we give thanks for the lives sacrificed in war, we pray for:

• those serving in our armed forces today and for their families • an end to the world’s conflicts and hatred • all peace-makers and peace-keepers

The Church in the Province of the West Indies: Archbishop Howard Gregory - Primate and Bishop of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands

SUNDAY 8 NOV THIRD SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT

Bishop Stanley HotayGive thanks that the schools have now reopened and pupils are returning to their education. Pray for the parents who are struggling to pay the fees due to the effects of the pandemic.The Free State (Southern Africa): Bishop Dintoe Letloenyane

MON 9 NOV Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro

Please pray for clergy ministering with Permission to Officiate – for Rod Allard, Terry Colling, Myrtle Cook, Vic Goodman and David Hebblewhite.

Rumonge (Burundi): Bishop Pedaculi Birakengana;Diocese on the Coast (Nigeria): Bishop Ebunoluwa Ogunele;Kwoi (Nigeria): Bishop Paul Zamani

TUES 10 NOV Clergy with PTO in Guthlaxton deanery

We thank God for the example of those like Martin of Tours, who chose to follow their vocation and Christian faith when it conflicted with worldly expectations, and pray for those who lead the diocese today.

Rupert’s Land (Canada): Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft;Dogura (Papua New Guinea): Bishop Tennyson Bogar

WED 11 NOV Martin of Tours, bishop / Bishop's Leadership Team

Please pray for clergy ministering with Permission to Officiate – Bob Hutchings, Jane Kennedy, Andrew Micklethwaite and Andy Rhoades.

Rutana (Burundi): Bishop Pontien Ribakare;Doko (Nigeria): Bishop Uriah Kolo;Dominican Republic (The Episcopal Church): Bishop Moisés Mota

THURS 12 NOV Clergy with PTO in Guthlaxton deanery

Area Dean: Mark Poskitt; Lay Chair: Pat Lockwood

Please give thanks for all those who have worked hard to share the love of God through these difficult times. May all our words and actions bring blessing to the communities we serve.

Ruwenzori (Uganda): Bishop Reuben Kisembo;Dornakal (South India): Bishop Vadapalli Prasada Rao

FRI 13 NOV Deanery of Sparkenhoe West

Newbold de Verdun, Barlestone, Kirkby Mallory, Peckleton Sue Ives-Smith, John Downs, Hazel Aucken (C); Alyn De Casembroot (R), Roger Dunster, Dorothy Fox (R-PTO)Barlestone CE Primary School We give thanks for the way that our Lord has brought growth to our communities. Please pray as we open the churches and continue the online services, that we would have wisdom, direction and guidance.

Sabah (South East Asia): Bishop Melter Jiki Tais ; Down & Dromore (Ireland): in vacancy

SAT 15 NOV The Blessed Virgin Mary

Night Prayer, also know as Compline (from the Latin completorium – “complete”), is the final service of the day in the Christian tradition. It is a contemplative Office that emphasizes spiritual peace. In many monasteries it is the custom to begin the “Great Silence” after compline, during which the whole community, including guests, observes silence throughout the night until the morning service the next day.

The Priest in Charge of High and South Framland, The Revd David Cowie, has introduced this as an online service to his benefices during lockdown. He writes:

“I’ve been thinking for a while about starting services that could deepen people’s spiritual lives, and with lockdown I felt Night Prayer was the next step.

We keep it simple. We start by listening to music as we light candles together; we follow the words from a simple booklet and listen to the Gospel reading for the day; and we spend time in silence as we offer to God the day that is past and the time ahead of us in sleep. Everyone except the leader is muted throughout, to keep the service easy on the ear.

I’ve been surprised how much folk appreciate the service. While it’s much more food for the faithful, what folk have to say has started

to slowly draw a few others who are quietly supportive of the Church but who I don’t see at services. It’s a very gentle service that doesn’t intrude into people’s lives, and so it appeals to those whose spirituality is more introspective—but it also works for anyone who just wants a bit of calm at the end of the day”.

Please pray for:

• those exploring old and new ways to deepen their prayer lives • those seeking peace and stillness in the busyness of life

The Church of Ceylon: Bishop Dhiloraj Ranjit; Canagasabey; Bishop Keerthisiri Fernando

SUNDAY 15 NOV SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT

Bishop John Smylie Pray for those most affected by the pandemic and for the diocese as they seek to love and support their communities. Give thanks for those training for ministry through the Iona Programme and for the richness of vocations being grown in the diocese.

Sabongidda-Ora (Nigeria): Bishop Augustine Ohilebo;Dublin & Glendalough (Ireland): Archbishop Michael Jackson

MON 16 NOV Diocese of Wyoming

Philip Watson (C); Lynda Plumpton, Debra Watson (R) Barwell CE Primary SchoolGive thanks for the re-ordering work at St Mary’s, for the careful work by contractors, and for a safe re-opening in due course. Pray too for Stapleton and Potters Marston as decisions are made on when to re-open.Saldanha Bay (Southern Africa): Bishop Raphael Hess; Duk (South Sudan): Bishop Daniel Deng Abot

TUES 17 NOV Barwell cum Stapleton and Potters Marston

Andrew Hall, Ros Harper (C); Mary Tynan (R); Don Peacock (PA), Louise Brown (Children and Family Worker) Burbage CE Infants SchoolWe give thanks to God for our Curate and Children’s family worker as they seek to lead us as we explore ways of engaging with our community and helping those on the margins, especially through our Blossom project. Salisbury: Bishop Nicholas Holtam; Dunedin (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Steven Benford

WED 18 NOV Burbage with Aston Flamville

Martin Castle (C) Townlands & Weavers Close CE Primary Schools, Earl Shilton

Please pray for all involved in mission and ministry in our team and with our local communities.Sambalpur (North India): Bishop Pinuel Dip; Dunkwa-on-Offin (West Africa): Bishop Edmund Ahmoah; Durgapur (North India): Bishop Sameer Khimla

THURS 19 NOV Earl Shilton cum Elmesthorpe

Vince Jupp (Interim C)St Mary’s CE Primary SchoolWe give thanks for our return to worship, for a renewal of energy and enthusiastic lay leadership. We are grateful for the team, their resilience, their hard work and their focus on Christ as we look to our new missional goals. San Diego (USA): Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori; Durham: Bishop Paul Butler

FRI 20 NOV St Mary Hinckley

Please pray for the members of the Diocesan Synod, meeting this morning.San Joaquin (USA): Bishop David Rice;Dutse (Nigeria): Bishop Markus Danbinta;Kyoto (Japan): Bishop Stephen Takashi Kochi

SAT 21 NOV Diocesan Synod

In 1925, at a time in Europe when fascism and dictatorships posed a serious threat, Pope Pius XI inaugurated a new festival in honour of the Kingship of Christ. This was primarily intended to counter the claims of secularism by holding up the model of Christ as King of creation, whose just and gentle rule is supreme.

In 1970, the Roman Catholic Church moved the festival from late October to the last Sunday in the church year. As the festival gained more importance, it was gradually adopted by other denominations, including the Anglican Communion. It was made a mandatory celebration in Common Worship for the Sunday before Advent.

Several theological and liturgical considerations account for this prominence of its observance. It concludes the Christian year with a climactic celebration that focusses on Christ as glorified Lord and King. In addition, this festival also deepens awareness of the final end of all things in the triumph of Christ - it brings the cycle of the liturgical year to an end, but looks forward to its turning again on Advent Sunday.

Worship of Christ on his throne leads onto the message of Christ as Judge.

The writer Henri Nouwen (in his Sabbatical Journey) wrote of this festival: “on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, Christ is presented to us as the mocked King on the Cross as well as of the King of the universe. The greatest humiliation and the greatest victory are both shown to us in today’s liturgy. It is important to look at this humiliated and victorious Christ before we start the new liturgical year with the celebration of Advent. All through the year, we have to stay close to the humiliation as well as to the victory of Christ, because we are called to live both in our own daily lives”.

We pray

• for the coming of God’s Kingdom, on earth as in heaven • that the Church may truly reflect the life of the Kingdom • that those with earthly power may govern with integrity, wisdom and humility

The Church of Bermuda: Bishop Nicholas Dill

SUNDAY 22 NOVEMBER CHRIST THE KING

Please pray for the General Synod, meeting for the next three days.

Santiago (Chile): Bishop Tito Zavala;Santiago (Philippines): Bishop Frenzel Piluden

MON 23 NOV General Synod

Please pray for the General Synod.

Sapele (Nigeria): Bishop Blessing Erifeta;East Kerala (South India): Bishop V S Francis

TUES 24 NOV General Synod

WED 25 NOV General Synod

Simon Wearn, Mark Cooper (C); Diane McCartney (R), Philip Thompson (R-PTO) Battling Brook Community Primary SchoolPraise God that we have maintained online fellowship during the pandemic, and for the care and support shown across the church family. Please pray for the Lord to open the hearts of many in Hinckley to him.

Saskatchewan (Canada): Bishop Michael Hawkins;East Ruwenzori (Uganda): Bishop George Turyasingura;East Tennessee (USA): Bishop Brian Cole

THURS 26 NOV Holy Trinity Hinckley

Gary Weston, Jon Berry, Dawn Matthew (C); David Rollett (Evng); Christopher Beckett (R); Susan Beckett, Susan Hicklin (PA); Keith Ellis, Judith Ellis (Pio) We give thanks for the opportunities God has given us to support people, practically and spiritually over the past few months. We pray that we will be able to continue to build on these opportunities to share Jesus with those in our communities as we move forward.

Saskatoon (Canada): Bishop Christopher Harper;Eastern Himalayas (North India):in vacancy

FRI 28 NOV St John Hinckley

Bishop Isaiah ChambalaPraise God for the growth in the diocese this year. Bishop Isaiah has ordained 34 Masaai deacons in Simanjiro and 9 from other tribes and has opened 119 new churches! Pray for the pastors and the growing responsibilities for the diocese.

Sebei (Uganda): Bishop Paul Kiptoo Masaba;Eastern Kowloon (Hong Kong): Bishop Timothy Kwok;Kyushu (Japan): Bishop Luke Ken-ichi Muto

SAT 28 NOV Diocese of Kiteto

Please pray for the General Synod.

Sapele (Nigeria): Bishop Blessing Erifeta;East Kerala (South India): Bishop V S Francis

SUNDAY 29 NOV ADVENT SUNDAY

This year’s national Church of England Advent and Christmas campaign is entitled ‘Comfort and Joy’ and is planned to build on the success of the last two years of #FollowTheStar.

‘Comfort and Joy’ holds together the hope that Christmas will bring joy and celebration after a uniquely difficult year with an acknowledgement that – for those who have lost loved ones or livelihoods, or who are potentially still not able to be together with loved ones – it may be the Church’s role, both nationally and locally, to provide consolation, rather than assume everyone will be ready to join in jubilation.

This Christmas the Church will need, in the words of St Paul in Romans 12.15, to ‘Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep’. We will aim to celebrate where we can together in one place – but also embrace a wider community that wants to join in the celebration but may not be physically able – or emotionally ready – to do so. We hope that

‘Comfort and Joy’ will enable us to reconnect with the rich and joyous traditions of the past and to offer God’s consoling love in the present.

The resources will include:

•freely available short reflections from a number of public figures exploring the theme , which will mirror the structure of a traditional carol service, focussing on both biblical texts and the words of much-loved Christmas carols.

•national online services for each Sunday of Advent, a Christingle, nine lessons and carols and midnight services. Local churches are also encouraged to share their own pre-recorded or live services if possible.

•music for churches to use as part of online and physical services and events, in partnership with St Martin-in-the-Fields and the RSCM.

Please pray

• that it will bring the Christian message of hope and peace at a very challenging and difficult time

• for all those planning Advent and Christmas services in the current uncertainty

Pray for the Lusitanian Church (Extra-Provincial): Bishop Jorge Pina Cabral

We give thanks for the example of those like St Andrew who did not hesitate when they heard the call of Christ to ‘follow him’. We pray too for the government and people of Scotland.

Sekondi (West Africa): Bishop Alexander Asmah;Eastern Michigan (USA): Bishop Todd Ousley

MON 30 NOV Andrew the Apostle

Mark Poskitt, Ann Hall (C); Colleen Annan, Pat Lockwood (R)Market Bosworth St Peter’s CE Primary SchoolPray for us as lockdown restrictions are lifted that people will feel confident to reengage together both socially and in worship and that we may begin to rebuild that strength of unity we share as a large, rural Benefice.

Seoul (Korea): Bishop Peter Lee;Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador (Canada): Bishop Geoffrey Peddle

TUES 1 DEC Bosworth

Julia Hargreaves (C); Colleen Annan (R)Sheepy Magna CE Primary SchoolWords from Neil Jones, Warden echoed across the benefice: “Our ’new’ church is a community project and so we are planning to return to a ’normal’ operation as soon as we can; continuing with our weekly on-line service.”

Seychelles (Indian Ocean): Archbishop James Wong Yin Song;Eastern Oregon (USA): Bishop Patrick Bell

WED 2 DEC Sheepy

Linda Blay (C); Keith Cornford (PA); Jan Harding , Wendy O’Brien, Carolyn Patullo, Michelle Nelson (R)Higham on the Hill; St Margaret’s, Stoke Golding; Witherley CE Primary SchoolsWe give thanks for our communities who have pulled together in sharing the love of God to those around them in this difficult year. We pray for wisdom as we discern the way forward for our churches post-lockdown and for our work with our schools.

Sheffield: Bishop Pete Wilcox; Eastern Zambia (Central Africa): Bishop William Mchombo;Easton (USA): Bishop Santosh Marray

THURS 3 DEC Fenn Lanes Group

Give thanks for those ministering with Permission to Officiate in the deanery: Patty Bailey, Paul Bromiley, Caroline Burnett, Jane Close, Alan Davis and James Jasper.

Shinyanga (Tanzania): Bishop Johnson Chinyong’ole;Eau Claire (USA): The Revd William Lambert

FRI 4 DEC Clergy with PTO in Sparkenhoe West deanery

Bishop D ChandrasekaranAs we enter the season of Advent, remember the women evangelists in Trichy Diocese, bringing the good news of our Saviour to rural communities.

Gasabo (Rwanda): Archbishop Laurent Mbanda;Edinburgh: Bishop John Armes

SAT 5 DEC Diocese of Trichy

The Dean writes:

Advent and Christmas are likely to be far from ‘normal’. We still yearn for togetherness. As Christians we normally work against ‘social distancing’. God’s dream for the world is to come close; first through the gift of creation and life and secondly through the incarnation of Jesus of Nazareth. Many famous paintings picture this gathering at the crib. The great and the good gather alongside the ordinary and the scruffy and all with the animals – remarkably like many Cathedral occasions! Usually the artist then leaves space for us to join in the picture too. So we become part of God’s story. We’re going to have to work out all of this afresh this December.

God comes into every part of our lives including our virtual worlds. 87% of the adult population are online, including 65% of those aged 65+. We probably will not be able to sing together but watching online, we will be able to join in another way. Many, if not all, say that this gives a sense of connectedness reducing the distance. We then also need to connect with the other 13% firmly far from ‘the cloud’.

‘Comfort and joy’ are words from the 16th century carol ‘God rest ye merry gentlemen’. They will be used as a way to advertise Advent and Christmas. This year at the Cathedral, we are very unlikely to be able to host many carol services, concerts or activities for children. However, what we do offer will be shaped by trying to find ways to offer ‘comfort and joy’ through online worship and through small gatherings in and around the building (it may well be easier

to gather outside with larger numbers). Through a shared experience of ‘comfort and joy’ we will perhaps be helped to experience God once again coming close.

Please pray for:

• the many societies, organisations and communities with whom we normally have contact with in December

• our local shops, restaurants, and places of entertainment struggling to recover their businesses

• musicians and worship planners offering afresh the hope of Advent and the joy of Christmas

• those who will feel even more excluded and isolated for whatever reason

The Reformed Episcopal Church of Spain: Bishop Carlos López-Lozano

SUNDAY 6 DEC ADVENT 2

Bishop Stanley HotayGive thanks that despite the pressures that DMK are facing the Diocese are still focused on Mission and Evangelism and continue to open and plant new worshipping communities.

Shyira (Rwanda): Bishop Samuel M Mugisha; Edmonton (Canada): in vacancy

MON 7 DEC Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro

Give thanks for those ministering with Permission to Officiate in the deanery: David Jennings, Frances Knight, John Plant, Edward Pogmore, Alison Thorp and Graham Wilson.

Shyogwe (Rwanda): Bishop Jered Kalimba;Egba (Nigeria): Bishop Emmanuel Adekunle;Lafia (Nigeria): Bishop Godwin Robinson

TUES 8 DEC Clergy with PTO in Sparkenhoe West deanery

Please pray for the meeting of the Bishop’s Leadership Team today.Sialkot (Pakistan) Bishop Alwin Samuel ;Egba West (Nigeria): Bishop Samuel Oludele Ogundeji

WED 9 DEC Bishop’s Leadership Team

Area Dean: Richard Trethewey; Lay Chair: Claire BamptonIn the past five years, nearly all the incumbents in the deanery have changed. Pray we may forge new patterns of teamwork; for Gareth and Andrew, appointed during lockdown, joining the deanery at such a challenging time.

Singapore (South East Asia): Bishop Titus Chung; Egbu (Nigeria): Bishop Geoffrey Okoroafor;Egypt (Jerusalem & Middle East): Bishop Mouneer Anis

THURS 10 DEC Deanery of Sparkenhoe East

Ed Bampton, Noel Colley (C); Keith Wignall (R-PTO); Joan Hawkins (PA-PTO); Ruth Scott (R in training)Give thanks for all who have contributed to our online worship and our re-opening for private prayer and worship. Please pray for our new Churches Together Community Support team, giving support throughout the continuing effects of the pandemic and beyond.

Sittwe (Myanmar): Bishop James Min Dein; Eha - Amufu (Nigeria): Bishop Daniel Olinya

FRI 11 DEC Groby and Ratby

Richard Trethewey, Sharon Andrews (C); Brian Hughes (R); Geoff Stokes (R-PTO)Give thanks for the numbers taking part in an online Alpha and Bible Course during lockdown; and for completion of the renovation project at All Saints’. Pray for wisdom in knowing how to restart in-person ministry, including which groups not to re-start.

Ekiti (Nigeria): Bishop Christopher Omotunde; Ekiti Kwara: Bishop Andrew Ajayi;Ekiti Oke: Bishop Isaac Olubowale;Ekiti West: Bishop Rufus Adepoju

SAT 12 DEC Glenfield & Newtown Linford

SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER ADVENT 3

Our hospital chaplains, Sonya Wratten, Sarah Wright and Hilary Lomax, reflect for us:

As the first peak of Covid-19 recedes we face its impact on Mental Health. Self-isolation, financial insecurity, bereavement and increases in substance abuse and domestic violence have affected people with pre-existing mental health conditions, the general public and health and care workers who cared for patients with Covid-19, witnessed their deaths, coped with rapid changes in working routines and worried for their own families. Emotional Labour is the term given to the costly stress of supressing your own emotions in order to support patients professionally.

As we face new challenges, give us the courage to invest in our own health & take time to process what we have already been through. To articulate, express and celebrate how far we have come and what we have survived. Help us to recognise God at work in our lives and to be filled afresh with hope that Jesus will continue to guide us through, our creator God will uphold & refresh us and that God’s Spirit will liberate us to sing a new song.

As we prepare for the birth of Jesus and enter a period of waiting in Advent time, may we be open to the wonder, mystery and infinite presence of God’s love in our midst. In illness

we spend much time waiting…waiting for results, waiting for life to be ‘normal’ again, waiting to know what the future holds for us. May we know you God in our waiting, still and sure in the depth of our being and looking towards a light and hope that beckons us forward.

Please pray for:

• all health and care workers that they would be supported in their mental health

• the generosity of those alongside people who are struggling, and resources for our health & social security services

• support for those navigating through the shock of a very different way of being

• patients in the three acute Leicester hospitals, community hospitals and mental health services throughout Christmas season

• hospital staff working over the Christmas period and those not able to see family and friends due to travel restrictions.

• Christmas services and celebrations across our hospitals

The Falkland Islands: Bishop Tim Thornton

Please pray for the House of Bishops meeting.

Sodor & Man: Bishop Peter Eagles;El Camino Real (USA): Bishop Lucinda Ashby

MON 14 DEC House of Bishops

Please pray for the House of Bishops meeting.

Sokoto (Nigeria): Bishop Augustine Omole;El Salvador (Central America): Bishop Juan Melgar

TUES 15 DEC House of Bishops

David Hover (C); Rosemary Meredith (R); Peter Kitchen (Pio)

Please pray for our discernment of God’s will for who we are called to be as missional church families, as we emerge from lockdown to explore new ways of being church alongside returning to much-missed gatherings and community action.

South Ankole (Uganda): Bishop Nathan Ahimbisibwe;Eldoret (Kenya): Bishop Christopher Ruto

WED 16 DEC Leicester Forest East & Braunstone Town with Thorpe Astley

David McDonough (C); Ian Dutton, Denis Malone (R-PTO)Richard Hill CE Primary School, ThurcastonGive thanks for the resilience of our churches in the face of the pandemic. We pray for church and school as we continue to reach out and serve our communities and develop ministry and mission in our villages.

South Dakota (USA): Bishop John Tarrant;El-Obeid (Sudan): Bishop Ismail Abudigin

THURS 17 DEC Anstey & Thurcaston with Cropston

Gareth Hutchinson, Rob Marsh (C); Tony Stokes, Carolyn Winkless (R), Jeffrey Kirkham (R-PTO)

Please pray for all involved in mission and ministry in our team and with our local communities.

South Kerala (South India): Bishop Dharmaraj Rasalam; Ely: Bishop Stephen Conway;Embu (Kenya): Bishop David Ireri

FRI 18 DEC Desford & Kirby Muxloe

Bishop John SmyliePray for continued fruitfulness of the Fresh Expressions of Faith emerging in the diocese and for its established churches as they reach out to their communities.

South Rwenzori (Uganda): Bishop Jackson Nzerebende;Enugu (Nigeria): Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma;Enugu North: Bishop Sosthenes Eze

SAT 19 DEC Diocese of Wyoming

SUNDAY 20 DECEMBER ADVENT 4

At the time of publishing, we have no idea what Christmas will look like in 2020, including whether services will be able to take place in churches or whether we will be able to gather with friends and family. It’s certainly unlikely to be an entirely ‘normal’ Christmas for many of us.

However we end up celebrating this great festival, Christmas is one of the two poles of the Christian year (with Easter). It is much more than just the celebration of Jesus’ birth, as our readings and liturgy recall us, amidst the joy, to the central truth of the Word made flesh for our salvation. Here we kneel in awe at the wonderful mystery of God’s dwelling among us in the fullness of humanity, as Emmanuel, foretold by the prophets and born of Mary.

Perhaps all we can do this year is refocus our attention on that greatest of all truths, rather than on everything else connected to the season which, however wonderful, sometimes obscures it from view.

Christmas on the Edge, Malcolm Guite

Christmas sets the centre on the edge;

The edge of town, the outhouse of the inn,

The fringe of empire, far from privilege

And power, on the edge and outer spin

Of turning worlds, a margin of small stars

That edge a galaxy itself light years

From some unguessed at cosmic origin.

Christmas sets the centre at the edge.

And from this day our world is re-aligned

A tiny seed unfolding in the womb

Becomes the source from which we all unfold

And flower into being. We are healed,

The end begins, the tomb becomes a womb,

For now in him all things are re-aligned.

Please pray for:

• a rediscovery of the heart of the message of Christmas

• those who have not yet heard the good news

• those for whom this Christmas will be especially challenging

Pray for mission agencies and their ministry throughout the Anglican Communion, including the Mothers’ Union around the world.

Bishop Isaiah ChambalaPray for the church run schools and the ongoing support needed for the children of pastors to attend. Pray for the Covid situation as it affects Tanzania, particularly as officially it's ‘not a problem’...South West Tanganyika (Tanzania): Bishop Matthew Mhagama; Esan (Nigeria): Archbishop Friday Imaekhai

MON 21 DEC Diocese of Kiteto

Andrew Smith, Pauline Ashby (C); Peter Maynard (R).We are thankful that, after a year in vacancy, we have welcomed Andrew Smith as our new Rector. We pray for relationships, old and new, that will enable us to move forward into this new phase in our mission and discipleship.

TUES 22 DEC Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton under Bardon & Copt Oak

Please pray for clergy ministering with Permission to Officiate who live in the deanery: Peter Folks, Pam Harvey, Barry Naylor, Mike Rowberry and John Woolmer.

Evo (Nigeria): Bishop Innocent Ordu;Exeter: Bishop Robert Atwell

WED 23 DEC Clergy with PTO in Sparkenhoe East

We pray for those joining worship across our diocese and around the world today.

Ezo (South Sudan): Bishop John Zawo;Faisalabad (Pakistan): Bishop John Samuel;Falkland Islands: Bishop Tim Thornton

THURS 24 DEC Christmas Eve

As we celebrate with joy the birth of the Christ Child, we pray for those for whom today will be difficult or filled with sadness.

Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem and the People of Bethlehem

FRI 25 DEC Christmas Day

As we give thanks for the life and witness of St Stephen, we pray for those still persecuted and martyred for their faith in our own generation.

Fianarantsoa (Indian Ocean): Bishop Gilbert Rakotondravelo;Florida (USA): Bishop John Howard;False Bay (Southern Africa): Bishop Margaret Vertue

SAT 26 DEC Stephen, Deacon, First Martyr

Etche (Nigeria): Bishop Precious Nwala; Etsako (Nigeria): Bishop Jacob Bada

Today the Church honours St John as Apostle and Evangelist, the one who proclaims Jesus as the Word made flesh and ‘the disciple whom Jesus loved’. John was one of the sons of Zebedee. Along with his brother James and Peter, he formed the inner circle of the apostles who followed Jesus. He was there at the Transfiguration of Jesus on the holy mountain; he was there at the last supper; with Jesus in his agony in the garden; he was there with Mary his mother at the foot of the cross; he was there as a witness of Jesus’ resurrection and he ‘saw and believed’. John was a witness to the Word, he proclaimed the Word, and he lived and died witnessing to the Word made flesh, who loved him and whom he loved. He is believed to be the only one of the apostles not martyred for his faith.

Debate as to whether John the apostle and John the writer of a gospel, three epistles and the book of Revelation are the same person began as early as the second century AD. The gospel writer seems intent on preserving the anonymity of the author, although many have concluded the writer

was John the Apostle. Traditionally he was believed to have been exiled to the island of Patmos in AD95 where he wrote down Revelation. Some scholars argue that the gospel and the epistles at least originated in the same Christian community, if not from the same person. John’s gospel finishes “This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things that Jesus did; if every one of them were written down, I suppose the world itself could not contain the books that would be written” (John 21: 24-25). What a wonderful thought!

We pray: • for all evangelists and teachers, that they may feed others with the Bread of Life

• that the light of the world may shine in our darkness

• for those who have lost their way, that they might find it in Christ, who is truth and life

Pray for Christians in other denominations and the work of the ecumenical movement:

His Holiness Pope Francis; His All Holiness Archbishop Bartholomew of Constantinople, New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch;

The General Secretary of the World Council of Churches;

Bishop Ivan M Abrahams, General Secretary World Methodist Council;

The Reverend Chris Ferguson, General Secretary of the World Communion of Reformed Churches

SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST

We pray for all those who suffer today, especially the children of our world, and for those who have lost a child. Fond du Lac (USA): Bishop Matthew Gunter;Fort Worth (USA): Bishop Scott Mayer

MON 28 DEC The Holy Innocents

We pray for Archbishop Justin; and for all those who follow Thomas today on the road to martyrdom. Fredericton (Canada): Bishop David Edwards;Freetown (Sierra Leone): Bishop Thomas Wilson

TUES 29 DEC Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury

Bishop D ChandrasekaranPray for the children and staff at the Church of South India school, Woraiyur, who now have a new assembly hall thanks to the support of Leicestershire Christians.Gahini (Rwanda): Bishop Alexis Bilindabagabo;Gambia (West Africa): Bishop James Odico

WED 30 DEC Diocese of Trichy

At the turning of the year, we pray for those for whom 2020 has been particularly difficult and pray for our life together in 2021.Gasabo (Rwanda): Bishop Onesphore Rwaje;Gboko (Nigeria): Bishop Emmanuel Nyitsse

THURS 31 DEC New Year’s Eve

We thank God for the gift of being called by name and loved for who we truly are.

FRI 1 JANUARY The Naming and Circumcision of Jesus

We pray for those who lead the Church and teach the faith today.

George (Southern Africa): Bishop Brian Marajh;Georgia (USA): Bishop Scott Benhase

SAT 2 JANUARY Basil and Gregory, Bishops, Teachers of the Faith