Please find all the latest news from the Diocese of Bristol
News
Street Pastors looking for new volunteers
First published 11th September 2018Could you take to the streets of Bristol on a Friday or Saturday night to help those enjoying an evening on the town? Street Pastors in Bristol is looking for more volunteers to join them as they patrol the city's streets.
Time for a Change - Revd Dr Emma Ineson
First published 7th September 2018As we enter a new season, Revd Dr Emma Ineson, Principal of Trinity College Bristol and Bishop Designate of Penrith, thinks about life's many changes.Change is in the air.
Hundreds turn out for first Big Green Picnic
First published 5th September 2018Picnickers packed up their hampers for the first Big Green Picnic in Bristol this summer. More than 200 people headed to College Green to tuck into their environmentally-friendly lunches and to hear from speakers.
Photo exhibition at Cathedral captures poignance of war graves
First published 24th August 2018Bristol Cathedral will be hosting a significant photography exhibition this autumn, remembering those who lost their lives in the First World War.
New website to help keep historic churches safe
First published 24th August 2018MaintenanceBooker is a new website set up to help keep historic churches safe for the future. Set up by the National Churches Trust and 2buy2, MaintenanceBooker helps churches to prevent problems such as leaking roofs and crumbling stonework. Churche
Running the Race - Revd Canon Nicola Stanley
First published 21st August 2018Following a summer of sport, Revd Canon Nicola Stanley, Precentor of Bristol Cathedral, reflects on the link between Christians and athletes.
Becoming a Dementia-Friendly Church
First published 20th August 2018A new resource pack has been put together by Churches Together in Bristol which aims to bring together a variety of tools and information which may be of use in helping churches to become more dementia friendly.
Journey's End - Remembrance film screening for churches
First published 17th August 2018As part of the British commemoration of the First World War centenary, a film adaptation of the play Journey's End by R. C. Sherriff was filmed and released.
New resource to support Stats for Mission Annual Return
First published 17th August 2018Behind every statistic captured by the National Church's Annual Return is a human being encountering and worshipping God.
School opera celebrates church bells in Almondsbury
First published 17th August 2018Pupils at two schools have performed a new opera celebrating the restoration of the set of bells in St Marys Almondsbury.
Have your say on plans for growth at Frenchay CE Primary
First published 16th August 2018South Gloucestershire Council is asking for comments on plans to expand Frenchay CE VC Primary School and transfer it to a new site.There are currently proposals to increase the number of places available at the school from 140 to 420 with
Saying Goodbye service
First published 16th August 2018A special service for parents to remember children who have been lost is taking place at Malmesbury Abbey in September.The Saying Goodbye Services are remembrance services for people who have lost a child at any stage of pregnancy, at birth or in inf
Things I have learned - Chris Priddy
First published 14th August 2018Chris Priddy took up the post of Head of Parish and External Relations at the Diocese of Bristol on 1 September 2015. Here he reflects on his experience during the last three years.
Lament and the Rawness of Pain - Revd Sheila Melot
First published 13th August 2018In our latest blog, Revd Sheila Melot, Seniors Minister at B&A Church, explores the experience of grief:The Christian faith embraces Good Friday and Easter Sunday: grief and death, then joy and new life. But sometimes ones personal experienc
Become a governor at a Church of England School
First published 9th August 2018Could you volunteer and become a school governor? Do you want to make a difference to the lives of children, young people and your local community? Do you enjoy working as part of a team? Are you willing to challenge and ask questions?
Alpha and Omega - Canon David Froude
First published 8th August 2018Canon David Froude, Chair of the House of Laity, Bristol Diocesan Synod, reflects on endings - and new beginnings. I know someone who hates goodbyes. So much so that often those words are avoided, face to face is minimised, and we move on quickly.
Autumn and Winter Aid Appeal for Syria, Lebanon and Iraq
First published 7th August 2018During September The Church in Westbury Park is asking for peeople to bring items and money to be sent to those in the most dire need in refugee camps in Syria and Iraq.Below is a list of those items which are needed.
Ride and Stride 2018
First published 7th August 2018This year's annual Ride+Stride event, which takes place throughout Wiltshire on Saturday 8 September, is the perfect chance to visit some of the county's beautiful churches.
Ability Sunday 2018 - Celebrating Gifts
First published 7th August 2018Churches are being invited to join together and mark out 9 September for Ability Sunday a special day in their community.
Revd Canon Michael Roden announced as new Canon Chancellor
First published 6th August 2018Bristol Cathedral has announced the appointment of Revd Canon Michael Roden as Canon Chancellor.
Bristol's Big Green Picnic
First published 30th July 2018Working with Bristol Cathedral were hosting an environmentally-friendly picnic on College Green and wed love for you to join us! 11.30AM - 2PM WEDNESDAY 29 AUGUST 2018 College Green, Bristol.
A new Heaven and a new Earth - Canon Professor Martin Gainsborough
First published 25th July 2018Canon Professor Martin Gainsborough, a member of General Synod for the Diocese of Bristol, assesses General Synods vote on disinvestment.
Life to the Little Max
First published 24th July 2018Back in June, a small group of clergy children from Bristol Diocese met others from Bath and Wells for a fun day out at Crealy Adventure Park in North Devon.Called Little Max, the day trip was organised to build on the current pastoral supp
Celebrating all God's people - Revd Mat Ineson
First published 12th July 2018Revd Mat Ineson, Vicar at St Mary's Stoke Bishop, on equipping the people of God to minister to the world. The beginning of July was special for Bristol Diocese. We celebrated ordinations to the offices of Deacon, Priest and Bishop.
Consecration of Vivienne Faull as Bishop of Bristol
First published 12th July 2018The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull was consecrated as the 56th Bishop of Bristol by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Justin Welby, in a service at St Paul's Cathedral, London, on 3 June.
New worship and prayer materials to commemorate First World War
First published 27th June 2018The Church of England has launched new worship and prayer resources to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.
Where are we on our Parish Share journey?
First published 25th June 2018Over the coming weeks your church will receive its Parish Share request for 2019. So how far have we come as a Diocese, and where are we heading on our shared Parish Share journey?
New book tells colourful history of All Saints Church
First published 18th June 2018A new book tracing the history of All Saints Church, Clifton - once dubbed the Anglo-Catholic cathedral of the South West - has just been published.
Ordinary times - Revd Kat Campion-Spall
First published 18th June 2018In our latest blog, Revd Kat Campion-Spall, Associate Vicar of St Mary Redcliffe Church, Bristol, considers the blessing of living in 'ordinary times'.
Archdeacon's Visitation Charge to Churchwardens
First published 18th June 2018"Searching through my bedside cabinet I came across an old birthday card from my parents the last one I received that they had both signed."
Safeguarding News - June 2018
First published 8th June 2018Welcome to the latest news from the Safeguarding team. Here you will find all the news, resources and training from Adam Bond and the team.
Drivers urged to join fight against modern slavery at car washes
First published 7th June 2018Anti-slavery campaigners and other key agencies, including the police and councils, are backing the Safe Car Wash App, launched by The Clewer Initiative, the Church of Englands campaign against modern slavery.
Bristol DAC Awards 2018
First published 7th June 2018Each year the Diocesan Advisory Committee recognises a number of projects through its awards scheme.
Are you just ticking over?
First published 6th June 2018The following article is taken from the CPAS Lead On monthly email and was written by James Lawrence; CPAS Leadership Principal.
South West Youth Ministry Training Day
First published 31st May 2018A day of inspiration, keynote sessions and expert workshops for line managers, mentors, youth workers and children's workers.
Church Planting to be discussed at Diocesan Synod
First published 25th May 2018We are inviting anyone interested in finding out more about Diocesan Synod to come along to the next meeting on Saturday 9 June and see for themselves the role that it plays in the running of the Diocese.
Remembrance 100
First published 25th May 2018100 years
Lectio Musica: Songs from scripture
First published 25th May 2018A new song, written especially for Lectio Musica by Matthew David is featured.
The Shrine Of Our Lady Of Walsingham Youth Pilgrimage
First published 25th May 2018Founded by the Lady Richeldis in 1061, destroyed by Henry VIII in 1538, restored in 1922 by Father Hope Patten, the Anglican Vicar of Walsingham the Shrine has had an eventful history across nearly a thousand years.
Pray for toddler groups
First published 25th May 2018Just imagine if your church discovered a way to effectively engage with over 50% of the local community. Just imagine if half of the young families in your area came along every week.
Diocesan Synod Elections 2018
First published 24th May 2018In the coming months, representatives from across the Diocese will be encouraged to stand for election as members of the new Diocesan Synod for the next three years.
400km bike ride for Uganda youth trip
First published 22nd May 2018400km is a long way to travel regardless of the mode of transport but choosing to do it on a bicycle? Who would be crazy enough to do that? Well, Dan Jones our Youth and Childrens Adviser is, and on the 14th June he will be setting off from Weston-su
Viv Faull: a pioneer who will be a bishop for everybody
First published 18th May 2018On the day of her announcement as the next Bishop of Bristol, we learn more about Viv Faulls ministry and why she was appointed to the Diocese.
Very Revd Vivienne Faull announced as the Bishop of Bristol
First published 15th May 2018Her Majesty the Queen has appointed the Very Revd Vivienne Faull, currently Dean of York, as the 57th Bishop of Bristol.
Iconic railway works building to become new church for Swindon
First published 14th May 2018The former Pattern Store in Swindon is to be turned into a new church for the town.It is part of a plan by the Diocese of Bristol to support the regeneration of the area, while also connecting with people across Swindon who are not part of a church.
Holy Habits Missional Discipleship Resource
First published 10th May 2018Missional discipleship resources for churches.
Mission in a changing world
First published 9th May 2018Mission in a changing world.
Revd Dr Emma Ineson announced as Bishop of Penrith
First published 9th May 2018Revd Dr Emma Ineson, principal of Trinity College, has been announced as the Bishop of Penrith in the Diocese of Carlisle.
Breakfast Church
First published 4th May 2018Lots of families struggle to attend church because Sunday mornings become filled with taking children to sporting activities, going shopping and other regular activities.
'Apprentice': New CPAS resource
First published 3rd May 2018Apprentice is a daily discipleship resource for individuals and groups helping them to explore the life of Jesus more fully.Day by day, week by week, you will explore four spiritual rhythms.
Making disciples in your parish resources
First published 2nd May 2018At our Connected conference in April 2018 we launched the Making disciples in your parish resource.
Revd Jill Garfitt
First published 30th April 2018It is with deep sadness that we bring the news that Revd Jill Garfitt passed away on Friday 27 April. A service of Thanksgiving will be held in Christ Church at 11 am on Friday 8 June. Light refreshments will be served following the se
Why use a card reader in church?
First published 24th April 2018Many people no longer carry cash, and so it's becoming increasingly important to provide other ways for people to give. One solution is getting a card reader for your church, which works alongside a smart phone or tablet.
80 mile bike ride to raise funds for Youth Trip to Uganda
First published 24th April 2018A group of 14 young people and youth leaders will be cycling from Avonmouth to Swindon over the May Bank Holiday to raise money towards a trip to Uganda this July.
How can we all be inclusive?
First published 23rd April 2018As a church family we want to include children, young people and adults of all abilities and needs in all aspects of church life, but the truth is that many of us struggle to make this a reality.
Derek Chedzey to become next Archdeacon of Hereford
First published 23rd April 2018The Diocese of Hereford has announced that Derek Chedzey is to become the next Archdeacon of Hereford.
Six ways to get involved in Thy Kingdom Come
First published 23rd April 2018Six ways your church can get involved with Thy Kingdom Come: Initiate a prayer station (see Bright ideas for your church for examples).
Being a dementia-friendly church
First published 19th April 2018Most of our churches are experiencing increasing number of people living in with dementia, both within their congregations and in their local communities.
The Church and the Environment: Getting Real about Creation Care
First published 18th April 2018On Saturday April 14, the Bristol Diocese Environment Group in conjunction with the Diocese Social Justice Network hosted a day conference on the environment.
Hope Bristol 2018 - Building Bristol as a City of Hope
First published 18th April 2018Hundreds of young people from churches across the UK gathered in Bristol to help transform the city earlier this month.
Even more tea, vicar?
First published 17th April 2018A Wiltshire vicar is taking her tea drinking to a new level during her 13 week sabbatical this Spring - and she cant stop talking about it.
Revd Canon Michael Johnson appointed Acting Archdeacon of Bristol
First published 6th April 2018Revd Canon Michael Johnson has been appointed as the Acting Archdeacon of Bristol.
Fire-damaged Bristol church to reopen as museum and events venue
First published 5th April 2018A 200-year-old former church in Bristol city centre is being restored to create a new events museum and venue.
What makes your heart sing? - Revd Trudie Wigley
First published 4th April 2018Revd Trudie Wigley, Priest-in-Charge of Dorcan Swindon, considers the outrageous love of our God.The buzzer goes. The chair spins round.
Detectives wanted to solve murder mystery in Swindon church
First published 4th April 2018'Thou shall not kill' may be one of the Ten Commandments, but a church in Swindon will find itself breaking that command when it hosts a murder mystery evening later this year.
The Church and the Environment: Getting Real about Creation Care
First published 29th March 2018On Saturday April 14, the Bristol Diocese Environment Group in conjunction with the Diocese Social Justice Network hosted a day conference on the environment.
Bidding for Success: securing funding for your church project
First published 26th March 2018Are you planning a major repair project?
Pastoral letter from the Archbishops following the IICSA hearings
First published 26th March 2018The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) concluded its first hearing into the Anglican Church in England and Wales on Friday 23 March.
A Marathon effort to raise money
First published 23rd March 2018On Sunday 22 April 2018, Chris Priddy, Head of Parish and External Relations, will be putting on his trainers to run the London Marathon as he raises funds to support mission and transformation in the Avonside and Yate & Fromeside Mission Areas.
Experiencing the first Easter - Revd Christopher Bryan
First published 23rd March 2018Revd Christopher Bryan, Rector of Gauzebrook and Area Dean for North Wiltshire, reflects on is an event which has changed the world.
Messy Church toolkit launched
First published 22nd March 2018A new toolkit has been created by the Diocese of Bristol, working in partnership with Messy Church, to help Messy Church teams review their journey so far.
GDPR forum - dispelling the myths
First published 22nd March 2018Many of you will be aware of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which comes into force at the end of May.
Bishop Lee: A message for Holy Week and Easter
First published 21st March 2018A message from Bishop Lee for Holy Week and EasterI am never quite comfortable preparing messages for Holy Week midway through Lent; it seems to shortcut the journey. Keeping some distance between Good Friday and Easter Day seems even more important
Countdown to Thy Kingdom Come
First published 21st March 2018As this years Thy Kingdom Come fast approaches, we are keen as many churches and individuals as possible involved.
Safeguarding News - March 2018
First published 9th March 2018Welcome to the latest news from the Safeguarding team. Here you will find all the news, resources and training from Adam Bond and the team.
Revd Beth Brown
First published 7th March 2018It is with deep sadness we announce the death of the Revd Beth Brown. Beth died peacefully on 28 February in the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
Engaging younger generations - Revd Adam Beaumont
First published 5th March 2018Revd Adam Beaumont, team vicar of Greater Corsham and Lacock and Deanery Missioner for Schools, Children and Families, asks why we put such a focus on young people.
HOPE magazine at Easter
First published 22nd February 2018HOPE is encouraging people to build on their contact with their community this Easter by giving away a special magazine.
What can we bring? - Clare Fussell
First published 22nd February 2018Clare Fussell, Giving and Resources Adviser, asks how much do we consider what we are bringing to God for His mission and work?In many cultures its a custom to bring a gift when visiting someones home.
Youth trip to Uganda
First published 14th February 2018A group of 15 young people and youth leaders from across the Diocese of Bristol are travelling to Uganda this July in order to meet and work with other young people in Uganda.
Little Max - the fun day out for clergy kids
First published 12th February 2018Building on the success of Life to the Max, the weekend away for clergy children (aged 11-18yrs) Little Max is a brand new, fun event for primary aged clergy children 7 to11 years (KS2).
Crossing boundaries - Canon Prof Martin Gainsborough
First published 9th February 2018Canon Prof Martin Gainsborough, Canon Theologian at Bristol Cathedral, considers what makes for strong communities in our latest blog.
Sign up to Thy Kingdom Come 2018
First published 9th February 2018Thy Kingdom Come, the annual global, ecumenical prayer movement, is running from 10 to 20 May 2018.
Movement: Chippenham Deanery
First published 4th February 2018Young people from across churches have been gathering to celebrate their faith together.Movement is a new regular worship event that brings together young people from smaller churches in Chippenham and the surrounding area.The idea is to give teenage
St Alban Choir
First published 4th February 2018A church choir is making connections with the community.St Alban Choir, based at The Church in Westbury Park, currently sees 30 children and adults singing in at least one service every week.
Recovery Fayre
First published 4th February 2018People struggling with addiction have been celebrating the fight to get their lives back on track at St Agnes Church in St Pauls, Bristol.
The Ark@Sparc
First published 4th February 2018Not many church halls can claim to contain the biggest children's indoor play area in the neighbourhood.
The gift of giving
First published 4th February 2018Churches around the Diocese have been demonstrating how good stewardship can make a real difference.St Andrews Castle Combe has been raising money towards its Make History project, which will see a number of improvements to the historic and famous ch
Sitting at Jesus' feet - Revd Mat Ineson
First published 24th January 2018Revd Mat Ineson, Vicar at St Mary's Stoke Bishop, explores what it means to stop being busy in church.I am an activist.
Revd Chris North appointed Adviser for Ministerial Vocation
First published 24th January 2018Revd Chris North has started as the diocesan Adviser for Ministerial Vocation (DDO).Chris is an experienced parish priest who has previously been ministering in the Diocese of Bath & Wells where he was also a Rural Dean and member of Bishops Coun
Celebrating Epiphany with Llamas at All Saints, Clifton
First published 18th January 2018Yes, a donkey at Christmas or Palm Sunday, but llamas for Epiphany?
Changes for parishes to Data Protection rules (GDPR)
First published 16th January 2018Data Protection: Parishes and the GDPR.
Church reopens after six decades to work with young people
First published 15th January 2018A church in the centre of Bristol, which closed 65 years ago, is to reopen later this year with the aim of engaging young people and those who don't currently go to church in the city.
The purpose of Icons - Revd Canon Nicola Stanley
First published 12th January 2018Revd Canon Nicola Stanley, Precentor of Bristol Cathedral, considers the purpose of Icons.My favourite Christmas present?
Statement of Needs published
First published 11th January 2018We have now published our Statement of Needs, which sets out the desired profile of our new bishop, informed by our own consultation across the Diocese.
Grant support available for Swindon and Wiltshire churches
First published 4th January 2018If your church is working on community outreach projects in 2018, you may be eligible to receive support from the Wiltshire Community Foundations Main Grants (up to 15k over 3 years: deadline 22 Feb 2018) or Small Grants (up to 4k over 2 years).
Scientists speak at church during month of science and faith
First published 4th January 2018Science and faith will converge across the four Sundays in January at All Saints Lydiard Millicent this January.
Ugandan Christmas - 2017 Schools Activity
First published 20th December 2017At the beginning of December, a group from West Swindon Church Partnership visited several of West Swindon primary schools.
Running 125 miles for One25
First published 20th December 2017Over the course of November, four members of the Diocesan Office decided to run, walk, row, swim, cycle - or even crawl - 125 miles to raise money for the One25 project.
Early Christmas presents for two Bristol churches
First published 20th December 2017Two Bristol churches have been given a funding boost in time for Christmas from the National Churches Trust.
