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
With the help of God | Ven Cat Thatcher | August 2024
As you might expect, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting recently – particularly about the new role I’m coming into, the new (to me) area, and about where I fit.
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Working from a place of rest | Bishop Toby | August 2024
The long-awaited holiday month of August is underway and having begun with Yorkshire Day, it hopefully brings us much-needed time to relax and have fun with family and friends.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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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 …)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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