On Thursday 3rd October, Clergy, Readers, and Ordinands from around the Diocese gathered together at Holy Trinity Oswaldtwistle for a day of consultation, fellowship, planning, and prayer. Topics covered included news from around the churches, an update on church planting initiatives, plans to launch a training college for ordinands and laity, securing the future of our churches, and the upcoming Agenda for Renewal Denominational Vision Day. Before some of the diocesan team escaped the photograph, the day also included sharing in Holy Communion and much lively discussion over lunch.
On Saturday 19th October, the Diocesan Synod met at Holy Trinity Oswaldtwistle, with some members joining via Zoom from the Isle of Man and Scotland. As well as times of prayer and sharing in fellowship over lunch, the Synod considered matters including making the Diocesan Prayer Chain more effective, liturgical renewal, plans to launch a new training college, upcoming ordinations, the upcoming Agenda for Renewal Day, the healthy state of diocesan finances, church planting initiatives, news from around the churches, and a response from Synod to the upcoming Assisted Dying Bill.
On Saturday 26th October, clergy and laity from around the Diocese gathered at Christ Church, Liscard, on the Wirral, for the ordination to the presbyterate of the Revd Stephen Taylor. In what was a joyful time of prayer, worship, and celebration, Stephen was ordained and commissioned for his task of leading the revitalisation and growth of Christ Church. Wonderful fellowship was shared after the service over a buffet lunch.
On Sunday 27th October, newly ordained presbyter the Revd Stephen Taylor celebrated his first service of Holy Communion at Christ Church, Liscard. After the service, parishioners presented Stephen with a magnificent ordination cake. It took the concept of feeding on the Word to a whole new level.
