Prayer Diary - Welcome to nginx!cofeworcester.contentfiles.net/.../2016/11/1271_cofE_diary26-WEB.pdf · to this latest edition of the prayer diary which starts right at the beginning

Prayer DiaryPrayer DiaryDecember 2016 to February 2017

December 2016 to February 2017

Foreword from Bishop JohnPeople use ‘straplines’ nowadays to describe what they are about. It’s not a very elegant term but if we were to have one in the Diocese of Worcester we couldn’t do better than ‘Thy Kingdom come’. That is the first thing that Jesus asks us to pray for and, in a sense, all other prayers are encapsulated in it.

We have pledged ourselves, as a diocese, to seek to fulfil our vocation to become Kingdom People who, in the power of the Holy Spirit, will take our part in God’s great plan to reconcile the whole creation to himself in Christ.

As I write this we are about to enter ‘Kingdom Season’. By the time you read it, it will be over but, as I see it, every season should be a Kingdom season. These next few months are set to be just that as our exciting Calling Young Disciples programme within our Kingdom People vision begins to be implemented.

Please pray that God will bless this programme and, more than that, will bless all our efforts to further the coming of the Kingdom. Please pray continually, and for all you are worth; ‘Thy Kingdom come’, remembering that God has promised to answer our prayers and is able to achieve more than we can ask or conceive.

to this latest edition of the prayer diary which starts right at the beginning of the new church year. As we continue to pray for all the parishes in the Diocese, this quarter we’re focusing on the deaneries of Malvern, Stourport and Martley and Worcester West.

We also pray for Bishops 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. Plus each month we pray for our overseas partners – the Diocese of Peru, the Diocese of Morogoro in Tanzania and the Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland (which includes Magdeburg in Eastern Germany).

Do let me know if you’ve got a story to feature on a Sunday in a future diary – the more notice you can give me the better! And if you (or someone you know) would like a large-print copy of this prayer diary, please email me on [email protected], or contact the Diocesan Office reception on 01905 20537.

Best wishes, Sam Setchell, Communications Officer

Welcome

Mon 28 Malvern Deanery Pray for the Malvern Chase Team Ministry (Pickersleigh, St Andrew, Malvern and Malvern Wells & Wyche), in its first year with a new Team Rector, Dave Bruce. Pray for Dave and his family. Rural Dean: Peter Knight; Lay Chair: David Sparkes

Diocese of Kanyakumari (South India): Bishop Gnanasigamony Devakadasham

Tue 29 Great Malvern Priory Help us to clearly discern God’s mission-shaped Kingdom vision for the Priory over the coming years, and face with faithful confidence our resourcing challenges - organisational and staffing, finance and building conservation & development. For Priory staff, officers, and other lay ministers & clergy with ‘permission to officiate’. Clergy: John Barr, Mary Barr, Ali Gray; Readers: Chris Shepherd, Tony Waters (Emeritus), David Webster (Emeritus)

Diocese of Western Kansas (USA): Bishop Michael Milliken

Wed 30 Diocese of PeruFor children’s and youth work, both in the parishes and at diocesan level. For Paul and Lizbeth, Diocesan Youth Officers, and the camps and events for young people they organise. For all young people preparing for baptism and confirmation and those preparing them.

Diocese of Karachi (Pakistan): Bishop Sadiq Daniel

Thur 1 December Holy Trinity Malvern For the Puppet Nativity Service on Sunday to draw in younger families, preparations for Christmas celebrations and for a desire to live in a culture of generosity. Clergy David Nichol, Emma Goldby

Diocese of Karamoja (Uganda): Bishop Joseph Abura

Fri 2 St James, West Malvern For preparation for Christmas services and effective Christian stewardship. Clergy: David Nichol and Emma Goldby

Diocese of Karimnagar (South India): Bishop Reuben Mark

Sat 3 Malvern Community Hospital Please pray for Ann Lakin, Matron, and the staff, patients and volunteers at the hospital. Also for Jenny Kimble, chaplain who has recently left for pastures new, and for the chaplaincy team during this time of transition.

Diocese of Karnataka Central (South India): Bishop Prasana Samuel

Sedgley Christmas Tree Festival

Over the first two weekends in December, All Saints’ Sedgley will be hosting its annual Christmas Tree Festival.

The event was started after a member of the congregation had seen a similar idea in a nearby village and thought All Saints’ could do their own. The festival aims to encourage people in the community and from further afield to come into church over the Christmas period and experience the warmth and joy of the season.

2016 will be the festival’s 8th year and the theme is ‘charities’, with each tree decorated to depict a different charity. Church and community organisations decorate the trees which are purchased with donations from local businesses and money raised from a quiz. There is also a ‘Tree of Memories’.

The Festival will open at 10am on Friday 2 December with a ‘Blessing of the Trees’, followed by singing from local school choirs. The church is then open from 10am – 4pm on the Fridays and Saturdays and 2-4pm on the Sundays. Admission is free, light refreshments will be available and any donations during the weekends will be given to the Salvation Army.

Please pray for all those involved in the Christmas Tree Festival at Sedgley, for all those who will visit and for everyone across the Diocese planning community events in the run up to Christmas.

Advent 1 Sunday 27 NOVEMBER

Malvern Deanery - Rural Dean: Peter Knight; Lay Chair: David Sparkes

Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich: Bishop Martin Seeley Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney (Scotland): Bishop Robert Gillies

Diocese of Kansas (USA): Bishop Dean Wolfe

Mon 5 Churches Together in Malvern Pray for all the Christian churches in the Malvern area as we seek to work together with the local community, for example in schools projects (Lifepath, Open the Book, Seeds for Life, and Spring into Life), with the Malvern Hills Foodbank, in addressing issues of personal debt and access to financial services, and in extending a welcome to refugees.

Diocese of Karnataka South (India): Bishop Mohan Manoraj

Tue 6 St Andrew, Malvern Pray for all of our children and young people and all those who lead them, for a clarity of vision for the coming years and for our fresh expression of church working with vulnerable people at the Octagon. Clergy: Dave Bruce, David Richie; Readers: Heather Williamson, Judith Keane, Derham Cook, Barry Austin

Diocese of Kasai (Congo): Bishop Marcel KapingaDiocese of Katanga (Congo): Bishop Muno Kasima

Wed 7 Diocese of MorogoroPlease continue to pray for Bishop Godfrey Sehaba, following the death of his wife Leah in the autumn, and for the Diocese mourning the loss of their “mother bishop”. Ask God to strengthen ministry and mission across the Diocese, and pray also for the new Diocesan Secretary, Charles Pangapanga. Diocese of Katakwa (Kenya): Bishop Zakayo Epusi

Thur 8 All Saints, Malvern Wells & Wyche For our continued outreach into the community through our toddlers group, Messy Church and the local Wells club. For a deepening of discipleship in the coming season. Clergy: Dave Bruce, Paul Hunt; Readers: Jacqui Green, Peter Buchanan

Diocese of Katsina (Nigeria) Bishop Jonathan BamaiyiDiocese of Kebbi (Nigeria): Archbishop Edmund Akanya

Fri 9 Christ Church, Malvern Give thanks for our new boiler and the reroofing of Christ Church with the help of a Heritage Lottery Fund grant. Pray for our ministry in our parish and our outreach through concerts, book fairs and our schools. For our Churchwardens: Angie Green, Sandra Cole. Clergy: Harold Goddard, Anne Lanyon-Hogg; Reader: Chris Shepherd

Diocese of Keewatin (Canada): Archbishop David Ashdown

Sat 10 St Mary’s, Pickersleigh We give thanks for all those who lead services, preach, lead intercessions, read lessons and provide music at St Mary’s week by week. We pray for Chris as she trains to be an ALM. Clergy: Lynne Sparkes, Reader Andy Noble

Diocese of Kentucky (USA): Bishop Terry White

Christmas peace & friendship party

Next Saturday an inclusive community event is being organised by St Martin’s Church, London Road in Worcester, in association with the Worcester Mosques and the Rotary Club of Worcester South.

The Christmas Peace and Friendship Party will be held in St Martin’s Parish Centre, where tea, coffee and soft drinks will be provided, and all will enjoy a

‘bring and share’ lunch. Children will be invited to make Christmas decorations which will then be taken over to the church to dress a Christmas tree to be added to the ‘Festival of Christmas Trees’.

The event is free and open to everyone, and there will be an opportunity to make donations to Worcester Foodbank - either money or Christmas goodies will be particularly welcome.

David Scott, who is organising the event along with Cllr Jabba Riaz, said: “Christmas is a family time for people of many different traditions, not just Christians, and it’s a good time to spread peace and friendship to all our neighbours. We’re hoping to bring together people from all our communities, including our Italian and Eastern European residents.”

This is the second year that this event has been held and the organisers hope to fill St Martin’s Parish Centre again with peace and friendship this Christmastide.

Please pray for all those involved in the peace and friendship Christmas party at St Martin’s.


Diocese of St Andrews, Dunkeld and Dunblane (Scotland): Bishop David Chillingworth Diocese of Porvoo (Finland): Bishop Björn Vikström

Diocese of Karnataka North (India): Bishop Ravikumar J. Niranjan

Advent 2 Sunday 4 DECEMBER

Mon 12 Malvern Link with CowleighGive thanks and pray for this parish served by one parish church with three places of community and worship (St Matthias, the Ascension & St Peter); for the continuing development of a common vision; for our relationship with schools in the parish (St Matthias’, Northleigh, Somers Park, Dyson Perrins); for our Churchwardens and ALMs and clergy with PTO (Chris Copeland, Anthony Gann, Mary Nobles). Clergy: Peter Knight, Sue Beverly; Readers: Joan Copeland, Eileen Tomlin, Mike Hancox

Diocese of Khartoum (Sudan): Archbishop Ezekiel Kumir Kondo

Tue 13 St Giles, Little Malvern PrioryPlease pray for all the volunteers that support the church in such a variety of ways and for its ministry to visitors, particularly over Christmas time. Also for The Air Training Corps Chaplaincy across the Diocese and for Canon Eric Knowles, Chaplain to Little Malvern Priory and ATC Regional Chaplain.

Diocese of Kibondo (Tanzania): Bishop Sospeter Ndenza

Wed 14 Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland A number of concerts of sacred music take place in church throughout Advent, which reach many people who do not share our Christian faith. Please pray for all church musicians and choir members, and pray also that these concerts may help people hear the gospel of God’s love.

Diocese of Kibungo (Rwanda): Bishop Emmanuel Ntazinda

Thur 15 St Peter, Powick w. St James, Callow End Give thanks for the faith and commitment of our church family. Pray for an increase in that faith and commitment so that we may draw others in our community into our family. For our ALM Meg Allsopp. Clergy: Sue Irwin; Readers: Julia Davis, Rosemary Wells

Diocese of Kigali (Rwanda): Bishop Louis Muvunyi

Fri 16 Guarlford & Madresfield w Newland As our parish school breaks up today, give thanks for the pleasure and awe all children bring. Remember those people who find the Christmas Season difficult through loneliness, hunger, homelessness or bereavement. Pray for our ALM: Barbara Hill Clergy: Sue Irwin; Reader: Rosemary Davies Kigeme - (Rwanda) Bishop Augustin Mvunabandi

Sat 17 Retired clergy in Malvern Deanery We give thanks for the considerable community of retired clergy in the Malvern Deanery – for their breadth of experience and the generous way many contribute to the ministry of their local parishes. We pray that they find support and nurture in the fellowship of faith.

Diocese of Kigezi (Uganda): Bishop George Bagamuhunda

Calling Young Disciples

Calling Young Disciples is a project to help parishes better connect with children and young people

arising out of the Kingdom People vision. During research for Kingdom People, churches consistently maintained a need for help and support in this area of ministry and Calling Young Disciples is putting a team in place to enable this to happen.

The Revd Ruth Walker became Director of our Calling Young Disciples project in November. In this new role she will help recruit and support a team of ‘Mission Enablers’, who will work with parishes across the Diocese of Worcester to build on the work many are already doing with children and young people.

Ruth said: “Over the course of my ministry, I have increasingly focussed on working with schools and families. There is a real joy in seeing children and young people come to and grow in faith and I’m a firm believer that this is where we need to be putting our energies if we want our church to thrive in the future. It’s exciting to be at the start of this new project, to be able to help shape and grow the vision which has been embraced by the Diocese and see where it leads!”

Over the next few years, up to ten Mission Enablers will be recruited to be deployed in parishes. They will work with each parish for around a year, helping them to develop and strengthen their ministry with the children and young people in their communities.


Please pray for the Calling Young Disciples project as more team members are recruited and it begins to take shape.


Diocese of Chester: Bishop Peter Forster with Bishops Keith Sinclair (Birkenhead)

& Libby Lane (Stockport) Diocese of Kuopio (Finland):

Bishop Jari Jolkkonen Diocese of Kericho (Kenya): Vacant

Mon 19 Those in Care HomesPlease pray for all those who live in care homes across the Diocese and for their friends and family who visit. Pray also for those who work in care homes, that they may find God’s love and support in what is often a very challenging occupation.

Diocese of Kimberley & Kuruman (Southern Africa): Bishop Oswald Swartz

Tue 20 Care for CreationFather, we praise you with all your creatures. They came forth from your all-powerful hand; they are yours, filled with your presence and your tender love. Praise be to you!

Diocese of Kindu (Congo): Bishop Zacharie Katanda

Wed 21 Economy and Daily Life As we look forward to Christmas, pray for those who will find it hard to provide gifts for loved ones; those who are unemployed or unable to work, those on uncertain hours and low pay; homes where it will be hard to participate in the joy of Christmas because it will be hard to participate in life.

Diocese of Kinkiizi (Uganda): Bishop Dan Zoreka

Thur 22 Winter SolsticeYesterday was the shortest day of the year. As the days grow gradually longer, let us give thanks for both daytime and night-time and pray for those who find the darkest days of winter particularly difficult, may they know that Spring is just around the corner.

Archbishop of the Congo & Bishop of Kinshasa: Kahwa Isingoma with Suffragan Bishop of Kinshasa Achille Mutshindu

Diocese of Kisangani (Congo): Bishop Lambert Botolome

Fri 23 Shop workersPray for shop-workers who have been working hard and will be at work until close of business on Christmas Eve. Pray too for those who will be back at work for the sales from Boxing Day onwards. May they and their families find time to remember and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, and may we not be diverted by the commercial focus.

Diocese of Kirinyaga (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Kibuchua

Sat 24 Christmas EvePray for all those organising and also attending Carol Services and Midnight Communion Services. That the good news of Christmas may be both heard and received.

Diocese of Kita Kanto (Japan): Bishop Zerubbabel Hirota

Cathedral Crib service

For the third year running, the Crib Service on Christmas Eve at Worcester Cathedral will feature a live crib with real animals.

“A building of this size,” said the precentor, Michael Brierley, “requires as large a crib as possible. Life-size is currently the best that we can do.” A member of the cathedral staff kindly provides the sheep, and a member of the cathedral council kindly brings her donkey. “It’s a very special service,” continued Michael, “as important for children as a formal carol service is for adults, so we give it a lot of care and attention. People seem to come along after their final shopping on Christmas Eve, and get their Christmas off to the best possible start, by reminding themselves what it’s all about.”

“The Dean wondered about having camels as well. That’s a bit too Epiphany for me. However, I wouldn’t say no to an ox. If anyone knows of a well-behaved cow, perhaps they could be in touch!”

Please pray for the cathedral crib service and all crib services across the Diocese, that they might enable the Christmas story to come alive in new ways, especially for families who have not been to a crib service before.


Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham: Bishop Paul Williams with Bishop Tony Porter (Sherwood) Diocese of Borg (Norway): Bishop Atle Sommerfeldt

Diocese of Kilmore, Elphin & Ardagh (Ireland): Bishop Ferran Glenfield


Mon 26 Boxing DayPray for families for whom this Christmas will be a painful time. For parents who have lost sons or daughters, couples who are no longer together, children who are unhappy, confused or in trouble, and those who will be alone.

Diocese of Kiteto (Tanzania): Bishop Isaiah Chambala

Tue 27 Those who are homelessPray for those who don’t have a home at Christmas time. Being homeless is particularly difficult when the weather is bad and all around are enjoying Christmas cheer. Pray for those who run shelters and day centres to help this group.

Diocese of Kitgum (Uganda): Vacant

Wed 28 Diocese of PeruFor those responsible for diocesan administration and finance, especially those with the responsibility for establishing new diocesan financial procedures and trying to build a self-supporting, sustainable structure.

Diocese of Kitui (Kenya): Bishop Josephat Mule

Thur 29 RefugeesPray for all those forced to flee their homes. Keep them safe on their journey and help them to find welcome and hospitality when they reach a safe location.

Diocese of Kivu (Rwanda): Bishop Augustin Ahimana

Fri 30 PeacePray for all who suffer as a result of conflict and ask that God may bring peace. For the service men and women who have died in the violence of war and for those currently serving in war zones as well as their family, friends and all who pray for their safe return. For civilian women, children and men whose lives are disfigured by war or terror.

Diocese of Kobe (Japan): Bishop Andrew Nakamura

Sat 31 New YearAs we celebrate the turning of the year this evening, we pray particularly for those who can see no hope in the future. Pray that they will feel God’s love and presence alongside them.

Diocese of Koforidua (Ghana): Bishop Francis Quashie

Stourport Community Christmas Dinner

On Christmas Day 2015, St Michael’s Church welcomed 40 people for a wonderful turkey lunch with all the trimmings! The initial idea was born from a desire to offer hospitality to those who would be on their own on Christmas Day without the luxury of having their family around them.

The local Tesco store very generously donated all of the food from turkey and vegetables to gravy, Christmas pud and custard! Church members spread the word in the community and were absolutely amazed at the support received in so many different ways. Volunteers for the day, loans of equipment, gifts donated to give to the guests on Christmas Day poured in and there was wealth of support from people.

About 20 people booked their meal at the church and there was a fabulous bunch of volunteers who also enjoyed lunch, many of whom were on their own too. The age range was 5 – 92! Those people who attended made new friends and enjoyed a Christmas Day that they would not have experienced on their own.

The organisers said: “There are so many lovely memories of the whole day and it was probably the best thing we have ever been involved in! Having learned so much from this meal, we know we can make it even better this year and hope to find even more people who are on their own and would benefit from the lovely food and great company!”

Please pray for all those on their own on Christmas day and those giving up their time to ensure others are not.

Stourport Deanery - Rural Dean: Mark Turner; Lay Chair: Andrew Quinn

Diocese of Oslo (Norway): Bishop Ole Kvarme Diocese of Durham: Bishop Paul Butler with Bishop Mark Bryant (Jarrow)

Diocese of Moray Ross and Caithness (Scotland): Bishop Mark Strange Diocese of Kitale (Kenya): Bishop Stephen Kewasis

Christmas Day Sunday 25 DECEMBER

Mon 2 Stourport Deanery Pray for our ongoing open Synod meetings around special subjects including prayer and mission. Rural Dean: Mark Turner; Lay mission Developer: Vikki Day; Lay Chair: Andrew Quinn; Secretary: Peter Cook; Treasurer: Tony Tidmarsh

Diocese of Kondoa (Tanzania): Bishop Given Gaula

Tue 3 St Michael, Stourport & All Saints Wilden Pray for the community projects at St Michael’s & for Chris Burston, our Kingdom People Champion. For our Tourism as Mission work at All Saints as well as Messy Church & All Age worship. For the Revd Stephen Winter, helping during the vacancy & retired priests Paul Brothwell & John Kennedy. Also for the Revd Eva McIntyre as she prepares to take early retirement due to ill health. Clergy: vacant; Readers: Sandra Baty, Richard Standing

Diocese of Kongor (Sudan): Bishop Gabriel Agoth

Wed 4 Diocese of MorogoroThe money raised from the Kilimanjaro walk in 2013 has now all been directed to support a maternal health project based in Berega and Tunguli. Pray for all those working on the project, for the women who will be better supported in and through labour, and for a big reduction in pregnancy-related mortality.

Diocese of Kontagora (Nigeria): Bishop Jonah Ibrahim

Thur 5 Areley Kings & Astley Please pray for our Café Church and Community café projects on the Walshes; for St Bartholomew’s school, Head: Susan Helps and Astley school, Head: Ali Reakes-Williams & Executive Head: Simon Stubbs. Also all our ALM Worship Leaders and Pastoral Assistants. Clergy: Mark Turner, Josie Calam; Readers: Susan Matthews, Julia Quinn, Paul Simpson

Diocese of Kootenay (Canada): Archbishop John Privett

Fri 6 Epiphany O God, who revealed your only Son to the Gentiles by the leading of a star, mercifully grant that we, who know you now by faith, may after this life enjoy the splendour of your gracious Godhead, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Sat 7 Shrawley & the WitleysPray for our developing outreach/care through occasional offices, our school, Head: Karen Banford, our new ministry team, discipleship / training courses and pastoral care project launching on 29 January. For Reader in training: Vikki Day, Vickie Melling’s studies at Queens & our ALMs. Clergy: Ted Whittaker, Sallie Butcher, Reader Marjorie Workman

Diocese of Kubwa (Nigeria): Bishop Duke Akamisoko

Bellfest at Holy Innocents’, Kidderminster

Holy Innocents’ Church in Kidderminster has a tradition of a pre-Christmas festival with the church open to the community. This year however, they’ve decided to ‘ring the changes’ by opening the church next weekend with a bells theme to ‘ring out the old, ring in the new’ for New Year.

Heather Prangley explains:

“The sound of bells has defined our lives with influences that can be traced back to the earliest years of Christendom. We have planned a number of events around this theme:

• Ourschoolsandcongregationareworkingondecoratingbellswithreferencesto favourite hymns mentioning bells.

• AmongotherswehaveinvitedtheFireService(alarmbells)Police(littlebellsto attach to purses/notices about answering the doorbell), WFDC Love Food/Hate Waste (listening to warning bells about recycling) and the Alzheimers’ Society to have a display at the church.

• AreleyKingsHandBellRingerswillplayandlocalMorrisMenwilldanceinrecognition of the joy bells bring us.

• Therewillbequizzesaroundfamousbells.

• TheLadyChapelwillbesetasideforprayerwithpeoplewritingnames/prayers on paper cut out in bell shapes to hang on branches.

We hope that people will come and visit the church while we’re open and next Sunday we will dedicate a new kneeler in honour of our bellfest!”

Christmas 2 Sunday 1 JANUARY

Please pray for all involved in Bellfest at Holy Innocents, for all those who will visit and for all our churches planning community events in the New Year.


Diocese of Kolhapur (India): Bishop Bathuel Tiwade

Mon 9 AbberleyPray for a heart for mission, wisdom & energy regarding the buildings, ministry to Abberley school, Head: Anne Wylie, our discipleship / training courses, strategic links with neighbouring benefices and pastoral care project launching on 29 January. Also for our Area Team. Clergy: Ted Whittaker, Sallie Butcher, Reader Marjorie Workman

Diocese of Kumi (Uganda): Bishop Thomas Irigei

Tue 10 Teme Valley NorthPlease pray for our school, Head: Julie Paige & children’s worker Liz Whitehead, a renewed heart for the Kingdom of God, our discipleship / training courses and our pastoral care project. Also for our Area Team. Clergy: Ted Whittaker, Sallie Butcher, Reader Marjorie Workman

Diocese of Kushtia (Bangladesh): Bishop Samuel Mankhin

Wed 11 Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland Pray for the Churches’ Asylum Ministry, which helps support counsel and provide shelter to refugees who are threatened with deportation. May God encourage and strengthen the refugees and those who support them, and give wisdom to the politicians and decision makers. Diocese of Kutigi (Nigeria) Bishop Jeremiah Kolo

Thur 12 Teme Valley North Pray for creative wisdom, ambition, and energy in relation to the future for the buildings, our discipleship/training courses and our new pastoral care project. For our links with neighbouring benefices in relation to long-term Kingdom strategy. Clergy: Ted Whittaker, Sallie Butcher; Reader: Marjorie Workman Diocese of Kwara (Nigeria): Bishop Olusegun Adeyemi

Fri 13 Teme Valley South Pray particularly for the communities of Eastham and Rochford. TVS Churches are working with Arthur Rank Centre to deliver “Germinate Enterprise”, a course designed to bring regeneration by encouraging successful business start-ups. Pray that this will help local flourishing. Clergy: Robert Barlow, Sally Jones (retired); Reader: Pete Thorp

Diocese of Kwoi (Nigeria): Bishop Paul Zamani

Sat 14 Teme Valley South Pray for the communities of Hanley Childe, Hanley William & Stanford. Give thanks for the many volunteers who give their time to serve the local communities and their churches. Pray for the Pastoral Team, the Neighbours Lunches, the local Church Committees, Wardens and the PCC. Clergy: Robert Barlow, Sally Jones (retired); Reader: Pete Thorp

Diocese of Lafia (Nigeria): Bishop Miller Maza

Plough Sunday

All Saints’ Hanley William are celebrating Plough Sunday today. Priest in Charge of Teme Valley South, Robert Barlow, explains:

“Plough Sunday, the Sunday after the feast of Epiphany or “Twelfth Night” marked the end of the mid-winter Christmas festivities. The twelve days of partying and celebrations finished. Plough Monday was back to work. But before work started, the plough (often a communal one for the whole village) was brought to church to pray for a blessing on it and the work it would do. After the service it was taken (often with dancing) round the village and villagers were invited to make contributions to the cost of its upkeep and the upkeep of the Church that had blessed it.

“At the 10.30 service at Hanley William a local farmer will bring a vintage tractor with a small plough attached. We will pray for the work of all the tractors of the farms of the villages. After the service we will follow the tractor and plough up the lane to the local pub for Sunday lunch. And we will hope for better fortune than last year when the tractor started to overheat and had to limp home as we went on to the pub!”

Please pray for all the plough Sunday services taking place today and for all the farmers across our diocese.


Diocese of Kuching (S.East Asia): Bishop Bolly Lapok with Assistant Bishop Solomon Voon

Baptism of Christ Sunday 8 January

Mon 16 Teme Valley South Pray particularly for the communities of Stoke Bliss and Kyre Wyard. Robert is 65 in May next year. Pray for all those in local and diocesan structures as we imagine the future. Pray we may use the time creatively to prepare. Vicar: Robert Barlow, Sally Jones (retired); Reader: Pete Thorp

Diocese of Lafia (Nigeria): Bishop Miller MazaDiocese of Lagos (Nigeria): Archbishop Ephraim Ademowo

Tue 17 Glasshampton Monastery For Brother Nicholas, the Guardian, and all the brothers of the Society of Saint Francis at Glasshampton Monastery, in their ministry of prayer and hospitality.

Diocese of Lagos Mainland (Nigeria): Bishop Adebayo Akinde

Wed 18 Week of Prayer for Christian UnityAt the start of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, pray for all those who share our love of God in Jesus, but worship within a different denomination.

Diocese of Lagos West (Nigeria): Bishop James Odedeji

Thur 19 Feast of St Wulfstan Lord God, who raised up Wulfstan to be a bishop among your people and a leader of your Church: Help us, after his example, to live simply, to work diligently, and to make your Kingdom known.

Diocese of Lahore (Pakistan): Bishop Irfan JamilDiocese of Peshawar (Pakistan): Bishop Humphrey Peters

Fri 20 Retired clergy in Stourport DeaneryPray for all the retired clergy who live within Stourport Deanery and those who provide support for the churches there.

Diocese of Lainya (Sudan): Bishop Eliaba Obed

Sat 21 Mission Developer – Stourport Deanery Please pray that Vikki Day, Mission Developer in Stourport Deanery, may continue to be open and listen to God’s wisdom and guidance. May God renew, refresh and resource her as she supports the people and parishes across the deanery and continues to help them as Kingdom People. Giving thanks for all those opportunities to celebrate and develop lay mission and ministry.

Diocese of Lake Malawi (Central Africa): Bishop Francis Kaulanda

Stourport Prayer Shawl Ministry

A new prayer ministry has come to Stourport deanery connecting people’s faith, concern for others and the love of knitting / crocheting as a tangible expression of prayer.

St Michael’s & All Angels’ Stourport and St Bartholomew’s Areley Kings have a growing ‘Prayer Shawl and Square’ ministry within their churches. Items are knitted (or

crocheted) in an atmosphere of prayer, meditation & compassion before being blessed and given to those in need of prayer for sickness, anxiety or other trouble.

Pauline Wilkinson from Stourport tells of how the prayer shawls are making a difference to people: “Wrapped in the love of God and the prayers of his people, the shawls bring comfort; sometimes ease from pain and always the knowledge that they are not alone.”

Great is the need which is being realised by those trying to keep up with demand for the prayer squares which are mini prayer shawls, small enough to fit into a handbags or pockets. Kathryn Parkes from Areley Kings says: “Little did we know how they would fly out; so many have been knitted and blessed. I see it as a cover of prayer to all people”.

This ministry is growing as it finds its way into St Peter’s, Astley and churches along the Teme Valley, as well as into local hospices.

Epiphany 2 Sunday 15 JANUARY


Diocese of Kyoto (Japan): Bishop Stephen Kochi

Diocese of Kyushu (Japan): Bishop Luke Muto

For more information contact Vikki Day, Mission Developer for Stourport Deanery ([email protected] or 01905 621022)

Please pray for this growing ministry - that it will continue to reach out and witness to God’s love and that people may find wholeness and healing through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Mon 23 HMP HewellPlease pray for the prisoners and staff at HMP Hewell. For prison staff in their stressful and difficult jobs dealing with complicated men. For the Senior Management Team, for wisdom and insight in managing a complex prison. Managing Chaplain: Margie Schutte

Diocese of Lango (Uganda): Bishop John Odurkami

Tue 24 Children and YouthPray for all members of the Children’s & Youth Councils and for those from across the Diocese thinking about joining. For Diocesan Youth Officer, Simon Hill; Children’s Officer, Emma Pettifer, and Sheila Freeman covering while Emma is on adoption leave. Pray for parishes and deaneries exploring how they can listen to the voices of children & young people in their communities. Diocese of Langtang (Nigeria): Bishop Stanley Fube

Wed 25 Economy and Daily LifeAs we remember St Paul who supported his ministry with his work as a tentmaker, pray for those who support themselves in ministry and those whose ministry is in their work; whether as Ministers in Secular Employment or who seek to live out their faith in their workplace, particularly where the ethos of the workplace is challenging to Christian values.

Diocese of Lebombo (Southern Africa): Bishop Carlos MatsinheDiocese of Lesotho (South Africa): Bishop Adam Taaso

Thur 26 Parsonages TeamPray for the Parsonages’ Committee who oversee all that is done to provide and maintain, as well as making policies for the future, in respect of the provision of housing for the clergy; particularly Chairman Robert Pearce. For the work of Mark, Ruth and Sharon in the diocesan office and the contractors and consultants who work for the parsonages’ office.

Diocese of Leicester: Bishop Martyn Snow w Assistant Bishop Christopher Boyle

Fri 27 Holocaust Memorial Day Today is Holocaust Memorial Day. Remember those who have survived genocide in the Holocaust, in Cambodia, in Bosnia, in Rwanda and in the ongoing situation in Darfur. Pray that we may listen to their testimony. For all those who resist racism and the demonization of other human beings in today’s world, and resolve afresh to stand against evil.

Diocese of Lexington (USA): Bishop Douglas Hahn

Sat 28 Thomas Aquinas On the feast of Thomas Aquinas, pray for all those who teach theology and help the Church think about how it should be faithful to its calling in today’s world.

Diocese of Liberia (West Africa): Archbishop Jonathan Hart

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Later this year the 500th anniversary of the beginning of the Reformation will be commemorated across Europe.

The commemoration of the Reformation provides the backdrop for the 2017 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which runs from 18 - 25 January.

Prepared by the Council of Churches in Germany, the theme under the

heading Crossing Barriers is ‘Reconciliation - the love of Christ compels us,’ based on the Biblical text 2 Corinthians 5:14-20 and prompted by Pope Francis in his apostolic exhortation Evangelium Gaudium.

Epiphany 3 Sunday 22 JANUARY

Almighty God,

you sent your son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself.

We praise you because through your Gospel, in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together, and that in every place your servants call upon your name.

May your Spirit awaken in every community a hunger and thirst for unity.

Amen


Diocese of Lake Rukwa (Tanzania): Bishop Mathayo Kasagara

Mon 30 Martley & Worcester West Deanery Pray for the Deanery of Martley and Worcester West for the clergy, Readers and other lay leaders who work tirelessly to promote God’s kingdom in our parishes. Rural Dean: David Sherwin; Lay Chair: John Chidlow; Treasurer: Stuart Smith; Secretary: Jean Colley

Diocese of Limerick & Killaloe (Ireland): Bishop Kenneth Kearon

Tue 31 West Worcestershire Rural TeamPray for Alfrick-w-Lulsley; Crown East, Rushwick; Leigh & Bransford and Suckley discerning their unique parish ministry within both the worshipping and the wider community alongside being active members of the WWRT. Clergy: Anne Potter, David Sherwin, Ruth Wintle, Jennifer Whittaker, Adrian Graesser; Readers: Jill Smith, Mark Wild

Diocese of Lincoln: Bishop Christopher Lowson with Bishops Nicholas Chamberlain (Grantham) & David Court (Grimsby)

Wed 1 February Diocese of PeruFor Bishop Alejandro Mesco and the group he is leading to rejuvenate the liturgy and spirituality of the Diocese. For the spiritual life of the Diocese of Peru, particularly for all those responsible for clergy care and training.

Diocese of Litoral Ecuador (South America): Bishop Alfredo Morante

Thur 2 West Worcestershire Rural TeamPlease pray for Martley, Wichenford and the Lower Teme Valley as they continue to develop their buildings and find new ways of being church, particularly, Café Church and Messy church. Clergy: David Sherwin, Anne Potter, Jennifer Whittaker, Adrian Graesser, Ruth Wintle, John Guise; Readers: Jill Smith, Mark Wild

Diocese of Liverpool Bishop Paul Bayes with Bishop Richard Blackburn (Warrington)

Fri 3 West Worcestershire Rural Team Pray for Clifton-on-Teme, Lower Sapey & the Shelsleys in this time of transition following the departure of John and Alice Sumner. For the nurturing of ecumenical links across the team. Clergy: David Sherwin, Anne Potter, Adrian Graesser, Ruth Wintle, Jennifer Whittaker; Readers: Pat Snelling, Jill Smith, Mark WildArchbishop of Wales & Bishop of Llandaff: Dr Barry Morgan w Assistant Bishop David Wilbourne

Sat 4 West Worcestershire Rural TeamPray for the Germinate Learning Community creating a vision for resource sharing & effective communications to ensure the sustainability of our rural churches. Members: Philip Brown, Marianne Cole, Philip Hillman, Anne Lewis, Sally Porter, Anne Potter, David Sherwin, Jill Smith, Roy Walford and Mark Wild.

Diocese of Lokoja (Nigeria): Archbishop Emmanuel Egbunu

Kingdom Projects at Old Hill Church

Old Hill Church recently applied for and was awarded £1,000 from the Kingdom People Fund. The money will be put towards the Stepping Stones coffee mornings and the church’s ‘Tea and Toast’ initiative.

Stepping Stones was started by Community Outreach Worker, Linda Taylor who felt that God was pointing out a real need to bring people together, out of isolation, insecurity and loneliness. It meets once a month in the Church Hall, is open for anyone, and offers a place of love, friendship, belonging and welcome. Often people feel intimidated and scared at the thought of entering the door of a church, so Stepping Stones aims to be the first neutral step in coming to faith. The group offers prayer, support, signposting, visits and friendship and connections have started to be made with each other and the wider community. Some of the visitors have started attending one of the services at Old Hill.

Tea and Toast is an outreach ministry which meets each Monday during term time for two hours in the Community Flat in Addenbrooke Court, Old Hill. After working in the community flat for over a year, primarily with parents and young children, Julie Billingham and Irene Portman, community workers at Holy Trinity Old Hill, sensed God’s call to work with the lonely and marginalised. Anyone is welcome to drop in. Support is offered to people who feel overwhelmed by their life circumstances and the community workers share faith and encourage it to grow in the people they meet.

Both these projects aim to fulfil the mission statement of Holy Trinity to take the love of Jesus in action and words to ALL people.

Please pray for these projects at Old Hill Church, for opportunities to befriend and encourage people and enable them to be a friendly face in the community.

Martley & Worcester West Deanery - Rural Dean: David Sherwin; Lay Chair: John Chidlow

Diocese of Lichfield Bishop Michael Ipgrave with Bishop Mark Rylands (Shrewsbury), Geoffrey Annas (Stafford) and Clive Gregory (Wolverhampton)

Epiphany 4 Sunday 29 JANUARYThe Presentation

Mon 6 Christ Church, Lower BroadheathPray for our ALM’s Joyce Wilson and Allyson Craigan, and Ian Craigan, Churchwarden Mike Beard; the Staff and pupils of Broadheath CE Primary School, Head: Andrew Hackley. Clergy: Chris Stuart; Reader: Barbara Beard

Diocese of London: Bishop Richard Chartres with Bishops Robert Wickham (Edmonton), Jonathan Baker (Fulham), Ric Thorpe (Islington), Graham Tomlin (Kensington), Adrian Newman

(Stepney) & Peter Broadbent (Willesden)

Tue 7 Safer Internet Day Pray for the safety and protection of young people and vulnerable adults who access the internet. We pray that parents and carers will feel confident and equipped to help others use the internet wisely, be safe and enjoy its benefits. Diocese of Long Island (USA): Bishop Lawrence Provenzano Diocese of Los Angeles (USA):

Bishop Jon Bruno w Suffrangan Bishops Mary Glasspool & Diane Bruce

Wed 8 Diocese of MorogoroMorogoro Theological College is currently waiting for a new principal. Pray for all those who teach and learn there, that it may resource a lively and wise ministry across the Diocese, and encourage growth in the knowledge of God.

Diocese of Louisiana (USA): Bishop Morris ThompsonDiocese of Western Louisiana (USA): Bishop Jacob Owensby

Thur 9 St Clement w St David, WorcesterAt St Clement’s, pray for our new Family Church, reaching out to unchurched families, and for plans to reorder the church. At St David’s, for ongoing outreach to the local community and University students. Pray for our ALMs Jo & Felicity. Clergy: Chris Stuart, Sarah Cottrill, Phil Bradford; Reader Emeritus: Margaret Davis

Diocese of Luapula (Central Africa): Bishop Robert Mumbi

Fri 10 St Michael, Dines Green Pray for the work of the Green Centre and its links with the church, for the staff and pupils of Dines Green Primary School and the Open the Book team. For our ALMs: Mike, Philip, Margaret, Val. Clergy: Phil Bradford Diocese of Lucknow (India): Bishop Peter Baldev

Sat 11 St John in Bedwardine, Worcester Give thanks for renewed growth, and our outreach to unchurched families. Pray for our Group Youth and Families Worker, Heidi, for our developing “Kingdom People” vision for the parish and for our ALMs Philip, Graham, Chris, Rob, Sylvia, Catherine, Emma, Margaret, Jenny. Clergy: Chris Stuart, Sarah Cottrill, Phil Bradford

Diocese of Lui (Sudan): Bishop Stephen Ismail

Bishop John leads visit to Peru

This month, Bishop John will be leading a small diocesan party to visit friends in our link diocese of Peru.

Bishop John last visited Peru in early 2012, and there have been major changes since then and since the last group visited in 2014, with three Peruvian bishops consecrated in July 2015 and an indigenous diocesan bishop in place since April last year. The aim of this visit is to strengthen relationships with the new diocesan

leadership and to discuss the direction the partnership might take in the future.

The group will travel around the Diocese, hopefully visiting at least three of the five areas of work: Lima, Arequipa and Chiclayo. Recent months have been a period of transition and although the Diocese of Peru is still struggling financially, real efforts are being made to encourage sustainability.

Those in the group who have visited before will be renewing old friendships, and will hopefully provide support and encouragement to the people of the Diocese and the projects they support. As always, there will also be many things to learn from the Peruvian hosts.

Bishop John said: “I’m very much looking forward to going to Peru again to visit our Christian sisters and brothers there. Our link is a precious one which I value greatly.”

Please pray for those travelling and for the people and projects they will be visiting, and for the life and work of the Diocese of Peru.


Diocese of Lomega (Sudan): Bishop Paul Yugusuk

4 before Lent Sunday 5 FEBRUARY

Home for Good in Worcester

From Joy Pollock, a member of All Saints in Worcester:“As a foster parent, there are two questions I get asked regularly. The first: ‘What made you foster?’ For me the seed was planted hearing someone talk about his experiences as a child being in and out of care. What he said he wanted was a clean home and regular hot meals. It was such a basic need - my house was clean-ish and we had a hot supper every single night. I could meet that need for a child. I then heard about ‘Home for Good’ one year at Spring Harvest.

Home for Good is a charity with a vision for a home for every child who needs one. In the UK, 4,000 children are waiting for adoption and 9,000 foster families are desperately needed. Home for Good believes that the Church can make a difference. It raises awareness of the need for foster and adoptive parents, encourages families to provide loving homes for children in care, and equips the Church to offer welcoming communities.

The charity works on the ground with collections of churches who have caught the vision to see vulnerable children’s lives changed. Here in Worcester, there are eight churches currently involved and we want that number to grow.

The second question I get asked most frequently is how can I give them up? Well, it’s very hard. But, children who have suffered loss, trauma and neglect need me to love them more than I need to protect my own feelings. And the support I have experienced from my church family at times of loss and stress has been such a blessing. Freezer meals, babysitting, chocolate, nappies, clothes and equipment at the start, and cards, flowers and even a spa day at the end of a placement have all characterised Christ’s love to me.”

Please pray for all those involved in fostering and adoption, particularly the many children whose lives are changed.


Diocese of Lusaka (Central Africa): Bishop David Njovu

Mon 13 Hallow, Grimley & Holt We give thanks for the Lord’s blessings as we continue in hope. We ask for guidance as we explore new ideas particularly Café Church. For Hallow CE Primary School, Head: Simon Stubbs & Grimley & Holt CE Primary School, Head: Andy Richards. Clergy: Robert Latham; Reader: Denise Pollock

Diocese of Luwero (Uganda): Bishop Eridard Nsubuga

Tue 14 ValentinesWe pray for all those celebrating St Valentine’s Day today and for all those who find the day particularly difficult.

Diocese of Lweru (Tanzania): Bishop Jackton Lugumira

Wed 15 Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland We ask God’s blessings on all our chaplains and volunteers who offer counselling in crises and emergencies. May the Lord strengthen them and help them find the right ways to support and comfort those who find themselves caught up in emergency situations.

Diocese of Machakos (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Mutungi

Thur 16 Retired Clergy in Martley & Worcester WestWe pray for all retired clergy who support the ministry of this deanery, as we also pray for those who have been widowed and seek new ways of belonging on their own.

Diocese of Madhya Kerala (India): Bishop Thomas Oommen

Fri 17 Diocesan Education TeamPray for all those who work in the diocesan education team. For Director of Education, Margaret James, Gilly Maxim, her PA and Administrators Toni Enfer and Gilly Vose. For Karen Surrall, Interim CEO of the Diocesan Multi Academy Trust and for the team of consultants that support their work.

Diocese of Madurai-Ramnad (India): Bishop Marialouis Joseph

Sat 18 Those facing persecutionPray for all those who are facing persecution in their own counties. Remembering particularly those in Syria and Iraq.

Diocese of Madi & West Nile (Uganda): Bishop Joel Obetia


Mon 20 Armed forcesPray for all of those who serve our country in the armed forces. Keep them safe from harm and give them courage to face all perils.

Diocese of Maiduguri (Nigeria): Bishop Emmanuel ManiDiocese of Makurdi (Nigeria): Bishop Nathan Inyom

Tue 21 Archdeacons & OfficePray for the Archdeacon of Worcester, Robert Jones and the Archdeacon of Dudley, Nikki Groarke along with their secretary Kathy Jones. Give thanks for all that they do and give in the life of our diocese.

Diocese of Maine (USA): Bishop Stephen Lane

Wed 22 Economy and Daily Life For businesses and other bodies affected as we seek a way forward on the negotiations about ‘Brexit’. Workers and others worried by uncertainty about whether they can stay in the UK, those worried about future EU financial grants and support and changes that may occur after the UK leaves the EU. Those trying to make investment decisions and all whose jobs and livelihood will be affected.

Archbishop Martin Nyaboho Archbishop of Burundi & Bishop of Makamba

Thur 23 VolunteersPlease pray for all those who give up their time to help others. Our churches couldn’t exist without volunteers, we thank God for each and every one of them.

Diocese of Makueni (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Kanuku

Fri 24 Those who are unwell Pray for those who are unwell at this current time, whether in body, mind or spirit. May they know God’s healing touch. Pray also for all those who care for the sick and the dying.

Diocese of Malaita (Melanesia): Bishop Samuel Sahu with Assistant Bishop Alfred Hou

Sat 25 Christians working overseas Pray for all those who share God’s love in other countries. Particularly for those who are working as Christians in difficult situations, for example where there is extreme poverty, war or where a Christian presence is not welcome.

Diocese of Malakal (Sudan) Bishop Hilary Deng with Bishops Peter Kunen, John Gettek (Bentiu Area) and David Mayath (Pariang Area)

New Stewardship Officer

The Revd Alison Maddocks has just started as the new Stewardship Officer for the Diocese. Alison will work with parishes to help them think about their financial giving as part of their Christian discipleship.

Alison comes to Worcester from the Diocese of Derby where for the past five years she has been a Leadership Development Officer in the diocesan

office and vicar of Breadsall, a village two miles outside of Derby city centre. Prior to this Alison was a workplace chaplain in Nottingham and Birmingham and before ordination had 18 years’ experience working in the head office of Boots in Marketing and Personnel.

Alison said: “I’m really excited about this new post and further exploring the theology behind good stewardship. Discipleship in the everyday has been a strong part of my ministry to date and I’m looking forward to building on this. The Church has been slow to realise the changing nature of the world and the need to re-engage with the material as part of our worship. I’m looking forward to getting out and meeting people, finding out where they are and hearing their stories.”

Stewardship is an important part of the Kingdom People vision. Christian discipleship entails not only commitment to the life of prayer, to study of the scriptures and to receiving the sacrament in public worship, it also shapes what we do with our time, talents and money.

Alison moved to the Diocese in January with her two relatively grown-up daughters, husband and aged dog! The family love messing about in boats, as well as walking and are looking forward to having a whole new area to explore.

Please pray for Alison and her family as she starts this new role.


Diocese of Mahajanga (Indian Ocean): Bishop Jean Claude Andrianjafimanana


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