Christmas is typically the busiest time of year for clergy, lay ministers, or anyone involved in ministry. Between school assemblies, Christingle services and midnight mass, it can be difficult to find time to pause, pray and reflect on the love of Christ.
This is why Bishop Neil, along with the Diocesan Mission and Ministry team, recently hosted an Advent Quiet Day, offering Licensed Lay Ministers and clergy space for rest and reflection amongst community.
The 40 attendees were welcomed by Bishop Neil, who opened the day, saying, “Advent is a season that invites us to be still, to wait, and to prepare, and today offers us a pause from our routines, a space to be attentive to God”. He then welcomed the day's guest speaker, Revd Dr Ben Aldous, author of The God Who Walks Slowly and Principal Officer for Mission and Evangelism at Churches Together in England, before praying for those attending the day, thanking God “for the time to be still, and for the chance to be together in your presence.”
Throughout the day, Revd Ben led an inspiring and contemplative programme, shaped around five uplifting themes: the joy of going slowly; embracing inefficiency; cultivating curiosity and attentiveness; story theology; and appreciating the gift of the other. His reflections, drawing on theologian Kosuke Koyama, encouraged participants to resist hurry and rediscover God’s gentle, unhurried rhythm of love and presence.
Revd Jeremy Andrew, Diocesan Advisor for Ministerial Development, organised the day and said:
“The day offered a refreshing balance of teaching, silence, group conversation and prayer. Participants appreciated the chance to pause in a busy season, sharing rich fellowship and meaningful conversation over lunch. It was a deeply encouraging and restorative time.”
The day closed with a blessing from Bishop Neil and an affirmation of how practical and thought-provoking the insights had been.
Please join us in praying that God would give peace and rest to all involved in ministry in the Diocese this Christmas.