THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK FROM BISHOP PHILIP |
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Who would have thought that the New Year would start with news of a President of one country being snatched and taken to trial in another? Just when you think the world can’t get stranger – it does!
All of this produces a sense of anxiety. I feel it myself. But as Christians we cannot stop there. We need in this New Year to be people of hope – for ourselves, yes, but also for the sake of the world to which our God sends us. |
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Christian hope is not a vague longing, and it is not rooted in the realities of this world. Rather it is rooted in the goodness of God and in the finality of what he has done in Christ. These words from St. Paul I find very helpful: ‘Hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.’ (Romans 5:5)
May that hope which is God’s gift to us sustain us - whatever the anxieties this new year brings our way.
With my love, in Christ
+Philip |
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Goodbye and Thank You to Richard Brand |
Our long-serving Archdeacon of Winchester, Richard Brand, will be stepping down at the end of May from his role as he moves into a new season of coaching and training. Richard became Archdeacon in 2016 and has worked tirelessly to support parishes and communities through his ministry; he very much hopes to keep these strong links with the diocese. |
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Richard said, "It has been a privilege to work with the clergy, churchwardens, parishes and staff of this diocese over the past ten years and I have frequently been humbled by the myriad examples of faithful Christian generosity in service. My prayers continue in our responding to all God calls us to. Whilst stepping down as archdeacon I hope I might be able to offer some continuing support to Winchester Diocese in the years ahead."
Bishop Philip said, "I’m immensely grateful to Richard for all that he has given this diocese as Archdeacon of Winchester. Through times that have sometimes been testing and tough he has been a constant source of calm, authoritative reassurance: a real gift of God to us. He has been especially helpful in promoting clergy wellbeing and I wish him and Sarah all God’s blessing as he develops his coaching ministry.
"Alongside my gratitude to Richard, I’m also very grateful indeed to Rev. Howard Jameson from his sterling work as Assistant Archdeacon, especially as he steeped into the late Gary Philbrick’s shoes at such short note. The next Archdeacon of Winchester will be a full-time appointment, so Howard’s role will end at that point, with thanks from us all." |
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Revd Simon Newham to Become Interim Assistant Archdeacon of Bournemouth |
Following the news of Jean Burgess's appointment as Bishop of Grimsby, we're delighted to announce that the Revd Simon Newham, Area Dean of Lyndhurst, has kindly agreed to be the Interim Assistant Archdeacon of Bournemouth. Please do welcome him in this new capacity and know that any support you can give him will be gratefully received! |
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Prayers for the Clergy Conference 2026 - 12-14 January |
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We're looking forward to seeing around 180 clergy at our Clergy Conference next week, an opportunity to build relationships, enjoy a time of fellowship, learning, refreshment and worship, as well as hear from keynote speakers and workshop leaders.
We will be sharing livestreams of the key talks, which will be available via the Clergy Conference page of our website, so everyone in ministry across our diocese can access them. |
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+Rhiannon’s Epiphany Tour Inspires Bournemouth Schools |
Bishop Rhiannon visited three schools across Bournemouth on Tuesday to help them celebrate Epiphany. Special acts of collective worship were held involving all ages, and each child was given a paper crown to help them think about the journey of the wise men who followed the star to the stable where Jesus was born. |
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Special Presentation Celebrates Organist’s 50 Years of Music |
St Mary’s Old Basing has given thanks to its organist, Paul Wright, who has celebrated 50 years of service and dedication to the church. He said, "It's hugely inspiring to sit in a building and be able to make music in a sacred space like that. It's not just a case of turning up and playing the organ, it’s all part of a bigger picture.” |
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Resources for Racial Justice Sunday – 8 February 2026 |
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The theme for this year's Racial Justice Sunday is 'Love Your Neighbour', exploring what it really means to love our neighbour, especially given the current narratives of hostility, fear, suspicion and hatred of the ‘other’. Churches Together in Britain and Ireland have created a resource pack, which includes worship material, prayers, and book recommendations. |
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Did Your Church See a Rise in Attendance Over Christmas? |
We'd love to hear your feedback about your Christmas services and events, particularly as several churches have reported record numbers of worshippers! If you have any stories from your communities, we'd love to hear them! Email the Comms Team or use the form below to report your Christmas numbers and news... |
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Week of Prayer for Christian Unity - One Body One Spirit |
18 - 25 January 2026
This ecumenical celebration provides an opportunity to join with international siblings in Christ as we pray for Christian Unity. Churches Together in England have created a number of resources below for use in church communities. |
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A Rocha UK’s Easy Eco Tips 2026 Calendar |
Are you looking for simple ideas on how to take better care of the climate and nature? A Rocha UK's new eco tips calendar offers lots of small actions which can help your community have a big impact in protecting God's creation. |
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Footprints for Creation Resources |
The Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) is now open for 2026. Completing the EFT is part of our shared journey to net zero - each year’s data builds a clearer picture of carbon use and helps us act more strategically together. Find resources to encourage churches in your benefice to take part below. |
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Could You Become a Chaplain for the Royal Navy? |
Royal Naval Chaplaincy are looking to recruit superb leaders who can underpin, build and sustain the spiritual foundations of sailors, officers and Royal Marines, for both Regular (full time) and Reserve (part time) Commission. If you'd like to know more, or discuss the role, please contact the Chaplain Recruiter, Revd Alastair Blaine RN. |
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Religious Life Come & See Weekend at St Mary's Convent |
7-8 February 2026
Find out more about the Anglican Sisters of the Community of St Mary the Virgin in Wantage, near Oxford. This weekend residential is for anyone in the CofE wishing to explore a possible vocation to the Religious Life, joining the Sisters in various aspects of their daily life and rhythm. |
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Last year, the Bible Society published its report on the Quiet Revival, which showed that the Church was in a “period of rapid growth”. But is the Church of England experiencing a share of this revival? Church Times has brought together speakers from across the Church, representing different traditions, to share stories of local growth, with the aim of offering encouragement, practical advice, and a shared sense of mission. |
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Bishop Kelly's Installation Service |
11 January, 3:30pm, Winchester Cathedral
A final reminder that Bishop Kelly's Installation Service will be taking place this Sunday at Winchester Cathedral during evensong. All are welcome to attend - we hope to see you there! |
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Events Around the Diocese |
17 January, 10am, St John’s Stoke Church, Guildford |
17 January, 1am, Old Alresford Place |
22 January, 9:30am, Old Alresford Place |
27 January, 2pm, St Andrew's Centre, Dibden Purlieu |
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31 January, 8:15am, St Mary & All Saints, Ellingham |
7 February, 10am, Old Alresford Place |
12 February, 10am, Old Alresford Place |
5 March, 9am, St Boniface Church, Chandler’s Ford |
18 March, 10am, Old Alresford Place |
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At the end of this month, The Reverend David Potterton, currently Vicar of Lyndhurst and Emery Down and Minstead, will be stepping down from this role and retiring, while The Reverend Daniela Eisentraeger, Associate Minister of Maybush, will be taking on the role of Vicar of St Luke and St Peter Southsea, in the Diocese of Portsmouth. |
Around the Diocese and Beyond... |
Do you have a vacancy you'd like us to share?
Get in touch with communications@winchester.anglican.org. |
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