Find here reflections written by bishops, members of clergy and laity from across our diocese. Many of these reflections are produced for Leeds Diocesan News, which is released the first Friday of every month.
Monthly reflections
A call to rest | Revd Phil Arnold | July 2024
Each Wednesday afternoon at Christ Church, we have Warm Welcome, joining with churches across the country to welcome people to a safe space who may not otherwise make it to church. In our case, this involves table tennis, pool, tea, coffee and a meal high on calories and low on nutrition.
Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly | Bishop Anna | July 2024
In 2018 I could not wait to take my two young daughters to see the ‘Vote 100’ exhibition at the Houses of Parliament marking the anniversary of the first time women, over the age of 30 and with certain property rights, were able to vote and stand for election. I was so moved to see my 6 year old ‘role play’, giving a speech in the House of Commons, pointing her finger with great authority and talking about fairness.
The wonder of vocations | Revd Canon Derek Walmsley | June 2024
I was asked to write a short piece about “The Wonder of Vocations”. What would you write? Let me ask some questions then. How do we find our vocation? How do we discover what God wants us to do with our lives?
Changes in a testing world | Bishop Nick | June 2024
June is going to be a busy month. Not only are we in the throes of a general election campaign, but it is also Ordination month. (And I daren’t mention the Euros …)
A month for celebrating? | Revd Sonia Kasibante | May 2024
“That must be really difficult” – this is frequently the comment from friends and strangers when we talk about me being a hospital chaplain. And yes, it is the case – indescribably difficult at times. This is not where it ends, however.
Walking with purpose | Revd Jo Jones | May 2024
Working as a deacon in chaplaincy has been an enlightening journey, shaping my perspective and deepening my understanding of ministry. Each day presents unique opportunities for growth, reflection, and service.
Christian defiance brings hope | Bishop Nick | April 2024
There was once a very popular Easter song or hymn, but it actually got sung throughout the year, and one line confidently proclaimed about Jesus, ‘back to life He came.’ No, he didn't! What happened to Jesus was resurrection, not resuscitation.
The Calling | Revd Olasupo Ogunyinka | April 2024
Have you been called or did you call yourself? Well, I think either is okay with God who created us and knows us intimately. Remember the excitement you felt when you think you’re called by God to his mission.
Shared prayer for peace | Bishop Toby | March 2024
As we continue our Lenten journey with Jesus in the way of the cross, Muslim friends, colleagues and neighbours are beginning their fast this month. Each year, the lunar month of Ramadan starts ten or eleven days earlier, and the overlapping of our annual periods of spiritual discipline offers opportunities to share with and pray for each other.
Festivals of Spring | Revd Dave Ho Young | March 2024
There are two festivals I celebrate every spring. One is of course Easter, which we celebrate this month. The other is Chinese New Year, which we celebrated last month, and which in China is called Spring Festival.
