JANUARY - MARCH 2020 PRAYER DIARY Launde Abbey is a retreat house in the heart of the country with God at its centre January - April 2020 Retreats at Launde Abbey For more information and to book MAKING CHURCH CONFLICT CREATIVE please call or see our website Led by and Louise Corke 13th-14th January Launde Abbey, East Norton, , LE7 9XB GROWING UP INTO THE CHILDREN OF GOD Led by David Newman 14th-16th February

DEEPENING DISCIPLESHIP: THE ENIGMA OF FORGIVENESS Led by Stephen Cherry 17th February

THE CONTEMPLATIVE HEART Led by Ian Cowley 17th-20th February

LIVING WITH LOSS Led by Abi and John May 17th-21st February

LENT RETREAT: SEASONED BY SEASONS Led by Michael Mitton 9th-12th March

POST BEGINNERS RETREAT Led by Helen Newman and Cathy Davies 13th-16th March

HOLY WEEK RETREAT: CARRYING DEATH, REVEALING LIFE Led by David and Helen Newman 6th-9th April

TAIZÉ EASTER RETREAT Led by Cathy Davies and Emily Walker 14th-17th April © Matt Musgrave

Serving the Dioceses of and Peterborough www.laundeabbey.org.uk • 01572 717254 • [email protected] • Charity No: 1140918 FOREWORD FROM THE OF LOUGHBOROUGH

The idea of Lent as Jesus faces temptation journeying is a and eventually turns his face towards noble and age the cross. old Christian tradition which Journeys may sometimes be about a acknowledges physical move to pastures new but often that in faith we they are an internal activity. As well as seldom stand having our eyes on that which lies ahead still. Rather, we and draws us forward, to journey well are called to means being aware of the past and all be ever on the that has shaped us and being rooted in move, always the present and all that God is doing now. seeking fuller and deeper understanding. To journey well requires an openness With our eyes on Christ who goes to being changed and to gaining new before us, we are led (both through insights. As I prepare to journey round the times of suffering and joy), towards Diocese this Lent (see Sunday 1 March new ways of being and perceiving. We “Salt of the Earth”) I expect to be both are shaped and reshaped, renewed and challenged and encouraged. My prayer transformed. The lectionary helps give is that God will open my heart, mind and shape to our Christian journey, enabling eyes, so that I may learn more about what and encouraging us to explore different it means to be a faithful and obedient themes along the way. In this edition of the disciple of Christ. May each of you too Prayer Calendar we continue reflecting be blessed in the journeys you undertake on the journey of the magi through the during this season of your life. season of Epiphany, we travel with the Holy Family to Jerusalem where they meet Simeon and Anna who bless the Christ child, and we step into the wilderness of

www.laundeabbey.org.uk • 01572 717254 • [email protected] • Charity No: 1140918

WELCOME

Welcome to the new edition of the diocesan calendar of prayer, which takes us through spring, from Epiphany to Candlemas, Lent and to the beginning of Holy Week. If you know of anyone else who would like to receive a paper copy of this document, then please contact the Bishop’s Chaplain as below. It can also be downloaded from www.leicester.anglican.org/everyday-faith/calendar-or-prayer/

Every day we pray for and our brothers and sisters in Christ 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. You will also find one of our own partner dioceses featured every week. The have changed their practice and now only include the name of the diocesan bishop, asking us to pray for the people, clergy and bishops of the names dioceses.

The key to the parish entries is as follows: C = Clergy; R = Reader; PA = Pastoral Assistant; Pio = Pioneer Minister; Evng = Evangelist; PTO = Permission to Officiate.

Do let the Bishop’s Chaplain know if you’ve got a story to feature on a Sunday in a future edition – with as much notice as possible please! Email Revd Rosie Woodall at [email protected] or phone 0116 270 3390 or send it c/o Bishop’s Lodge.

We are very grateful to Revd Canon Brian Davis for his work on gathering parish prayer requests. SUNDAY 5 JANUARY EPIPHANY

“It becomes ever clearer that climate local church participation in the scheme (https:// change is the greatest challenge that we ecochurch.arocha.org.uk/denominational- and future generations face. It’s our sacred awards/eco-diocese/) Several dioceses in duty to protect the natural world we’ve the have already achieved so generously been given, as well as our this status, and many others have registered neighbours around the world who will be first their intent to become an Eco Diocese. On and worst affected. Without swift decisive 23rd November 2019, a motion was agreed action the consequences of climate change unanimously by Leicester’s Diocesan Synod to will be devastating.” seek Eco Diocese status within two years and encourage Eco Church across our Diocese. , 7th October 2019 In total, there are eight elements to achieving Within the there is Bronze Eco Diocese status (the first level). already much going on within our churches, These include: an environmental policy agreed fresh expressions, schools and chaplaincies by Bishop’s Council and Diocesan Synod; to respond practically to this call to action. achieve the appropriate levels of local church One example is Eco Church - an award scheme registration (10% of churches) and award administered by Christian mission agency A (5%); achieve the relevant award in relation to Rocha UK for churches in England and Wales diocesan offices; embed environmental issues who want to demonstrate that the gospel is in the curricula of ongoing ministerial education; good news for God’s earth (https://ecochurch. manage diocesan investments ethically; work arocha.org.uk/) There are currently around 20 with other dioceses/faith groups to encourage parishes in Leicester Diocese with Eco Church greater environmental action; and record and status or which have begun this process. celebrate individual environmental initiatives. Arising out of the parish-based scheme, Eco Diocese (is an initiative to encourage diocesan- Please pray for: level engagement with Eco Church, and promote • those working towards Eco Diocese status • more churches to pursue a calling to become an Eco Church • our diocesan environmental officer, Revd Andrew Quigley, and the environmental group

The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia Taranaki: Archbishop Philip Richardson; Pihopa o Aotearoa: Archbishop Don Tamihere; Polynesia: Archbishop MON 6 JANUARY Epiphany Please pray for those who, like the Magi, are on a journey of faith, and that more people will come to see Christ as he really is. Lake Rukwa (Tanzania): Bishop Mathayo Kasagara; Southern Highlands (Tanzania): Bishop Julius Lugendo; Gitega (Burundi): Bishop John Nduwayo

TUES 7 JANUARY Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro Bishop Stanley Hotay Pray for wisdom from God for Bishop Stanley and his team as they enter a New Year and seek to be led by God in their mission and ministry. Lango (Uganda): Bishop Alfred Olwa; Southern Malawi (Central Africa): Bishop Alinafe Kalemba; Glasgow & Galloway (Scotland): in vacancy

WED 8 JANUARY Licensing services for Sr Liz and Anthony Lees-Smith Please pray for Anthony Lees-Smith, licenced as Area Dean of the City of Leicester Deanery this morning; and for Sr Liz Heaton, to be licenced as Rector of the Upper Soar benefice this evening. Langtang (Nigeria): Bishop Stanley Fube Southern Nyanza (): Bishop James Ochiel

THURS 9 JANUARY City of Leicester Deanery Area Dean: Anthony Lees-Smith, Assistant AD: Adrian Jones; Lay Chairs: Les Mitchelmore & Margaret Terry Give thanks for recent appointments and pray for those new to the deanery and for our new Area Dean; celebrate the amazing diversity of our deanery and the many creative ways churches are reaching out to their communities. Lebombo (Southern Africa): Bishop Carlos Matsinhe; Southern Ohio (ECUSA): Bishop Thomas Breidenthal; Southern Philippines: Bishop Danilo Bustamante

FRI 10 JANUARY The Martyrs, Leicester Bertin Hermo, Gareth Hutchinson (C); Shayne Ardron, Chris Freeman, David Shepherd, Evernice Tirivanhu (R); Michael Dampier (R-PTO); Margaret Farrell, Peter Coopey (PA) We’ve recently spent time revisiting the Good News of Jesus, personally, corporately and missionally. This spring we’re running Alpha, encouraging the church community to attend and inviting new people. Pray for us to see faith deepening and new faith commitments. Leeds: Bishop Nick Baines

SAT 11 JANUARY Watermead Mission Partnership Co-convenors: Steve Delaforce & Nisar Masih Please pray that the clergy from the four churches may find ways in being able to meet each together to explore what might be best for the future of the Mission Partnership. Leicester: Bishop ; Southern Virginia (ECUSA): Bishop Herman Hollerith; Gloucester: Bishop Rachel Treweek SUNDAY 12 JANUARY BAPTISM OF CHRIST

The Revd Rob Marsh writes: Before I was ordained, I had a very active role in Scouting. During more recent times, myself and a colleague, Michael Smith, have been offering chaplaincy to some of the international Scout and Guide camps held around the UK. This might require us to be away from home and parish for up to two weeks. For us this not an insignificant role - some camps can host up to 10,000 young people, plus adult leaders and other staff. We do not see our role as being exclusively Anglican but open. We regularly offer a is something that parishes might like to selection of services, including Morning consider doing - reaching out to and building Prayer, a Eucharist, and a time of reflection a relationship with local Scouts and Guides? at the end of the day. We also endeavour to As we move forward, it is good to be able to ensure that those of other faiths have their share that we have been invited to attend the requirements met and it is our hope to form 2020 European Jamboree in Poland, with an a national group of multi-faith Chaplains for anticipated 20,000 young people attending. these camps.

The chaplain offers a safe space to talk and Please pray: is there for support, without judging. We are not counsellors or social workers. Chaplains • a source of funding for the purchase of are a friend to those who have faith and resources to those who don’t - and to those seeking • the formation of a national Chaplaincy faith. Our role is not to make people into team believers but to be alongside them. We are • the growth of work with Leicestershire often considered as part of the “Disaster Scouts and Guides Recovery Team”, available to assist when incidents happen. Please also pray for those being baptised and confirmed today at Countesthorpe For local Churches, we need to appreciate the opportunities available to us as ministers. Both Scouting and Guiding have faith-based achievement badges that Pray for the Anglican Church of : expect them to visit a place of worship Archbishop Philip Freier and to talk with a faith leader. Perhaps this MON 13 JANUARY Diocese of Wyoming Bishop John Smylie We pray for all those involved in the discernment process around the election of the 10th Bishop of Wyoming during the coming year. Lesotho (Southern Africa): Bishop Adam Taaso; Southwark: Bishop Christopher Chessun

TUES 14 JANUARY St Chad Martin Court, Clare King (C) Please pray for: the clergy and people of St. Chad’s; Elaine, our Community Missioner, and the work of the parish Centre; our ministry and outreach to the local community; our work among children and families, especially through local schools. Lexington (ECUSA): Bishop Mark van Koevering; Southwell & Nottingham: Bishop Paul Williams

WED 15 JANUARY Evington & Highfield Mission Partnership Convenor: Anthony Lees-Smith Give thanks for our partnership in the gospel and opportunities to celebrate together; pray for our common witness and engagement with all faiths and cultures in our communities; for our work among the marginalized and vulnerable. Liberia (West Africa): Archbishop Jonathan Hart; Southwest Florida (ECUSA): Bishop Dabney Smith

THURS 16 JANUARY Diocesan Board of Education meeting Please pray for this evening’s DBE meeting, for the DBE staff and for our diocesan family of church schools. Lichfield: Bishop Michael Ipgrave; Southwestern Virginia (ECUSA): Bishop Mark Bourlakas

FRI 17 JANUARY The Presentation of Christ Team: St Peter’s, Highfields Jonathan Surridge (C) Pray for and give thanks for our 150th year of worship and the next phase of our restoration works. Please pray for our neighbours and our Let’s Eat initiative, sharing stories, good food and faith. Limerick & Killaloe (Ireland): Bishop Kenneth Kearon; Spokane (ECUSA): Bishop Gretchen Rehberg

SAT 18 JANUARY St Denys, Evington Anthony Lees-Smith, Nigel Rostock (C); Geraldine Moulden, Sian Rigby (R); Sarah Gregory (Youth) Give thanks for 800 years of presence and prayer and all the celebrations in 2019; pray for wisdom and discernment about the future direction of the church; for Sian beginning as a Reader and for Sarah’s developing work with young people. Lincoln: Bishop David Court (acting); Springfield (ECUSA): Bishop Daniel Martins; Goma (Congo): Bishop Kadhoro Makanirwa SUNDAY 19 JANUARY EPIPHANY 2

The story of St Paul’s shipwreck on Malta unity as the place from which we can move (Acts 27, 28) leads us, during this Week of onward in faith and hope for the redemption Prayer for Christian Unity, to reflect upon of the world. aspects of our own lives and the lives of our For this year’s WPCU, we accompany the churches. As we seek unity, we recognize churches of Malta, praying with and alongside that we sometimes carry baggage from them as they seek the unity for which Christ history, tradition and cultural expectation, prayed. We rejoice with them that Malta which can weigh us down. There is a danger traces its Christian origins back to the time that, in the face of that experience, we lose of the Apostles. In so doing, we enter into sight of the hope which first called us. the drama of St Paul and those who travelled St Paul challenged his fellow travellers with him, to discover our shared unity, and to to keep up their courage. In the midst of recognise the importance of unusual acts of apparent desperation and hopelessness, kindness that bear witness to the Gospel of we are challenged to put our trust in God peace and reconciliation. and allow ourselves to be carried through the waters. There will be times when we Please pray for: are broken, as individuals and as churches, and looking back we will see not one set • for the churches of Malta of footprints in the sand, but hundreds, • that God will transform our painful as we are surrounded and supported by disunity into harmony and our mistrust those who love us. There will be times when, into mutual acceptance standing in the storms of our own making, • for the leaders of different we are challenged to demonstrate unusual denominations kindness in the face of worldly indifference. • for all those working for unity - To demonstrate such kindness is to look on internationally, nationally and locally one another as fellow children of God. As we reflect upon, and pray for, Christian unity, Pray for the United : we acknowledge the injury that we have Archbishop Samuel Sunil Mankhin caused, the pain that we carry, the baggage (Moderator) that we must jettison. We pray for Christian MON 20 JANUARY Diocese of Kiteto Bishop Isaiah Chambala Pray for the ongoing work of Church & Community Mobilisation Programmes in the diocese driving economic development. Pray about recurrent food shortages in Tanzania and the knock-on adverse consequences that has upon the work of pastors and the diocese. Litoral Ecuador (Episcopal Church): Bishop Alfredo Morante; St Albans: Bishop Alan Smith; Gombe (Nigeria): Bishop Henry Ndukuba

TUES 21 JANUARY Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Martin Court, Clare King (C) We pray that our confidence in God’s providence may be strengthened when we feel overwhelmed by the storms of life. Liverpool: Bishop Paul Bayes; St Asaph (Wales): Bishop Gregory Cameron; Grafton (Australia): Bishop Murray Harvey

WED 22 JANUARY Bishop’s Leadership Team meeting Please pray for today’s Bishop’s Leadership Team meeting. St David’s (Wales): Bishop Joanna Penberthy

THURS 23 JANUARY Week of Prayer for Christian Unity We pray that we may welcome with unusual kindness our sisters and brothers who are in peril or need. Llandaff (Wales): Bishop June Osborne; St Edmundsbury & Ipswich: Bishop Martin Seeley; St Helena (Southern Africa): Bishop Dale Bowers

FRI 24 JANUARY Week of Prayer for Christian Unity We pray that our Christian communities may be agents of healing in the world. Lokoja (Nigeria): Archbishop Emmanuel Egbunu; St Mark the Evangelist (Southern Africa): Bishop Martin Breytenbach

SAT 25 JANUARY Conversion of Paul We pray for all those experiencing dramatic conversion, and for those whose call to follow Christ comes as a gentle whisper. Lomega (South Sudan): Archbishop Paul Yugusuk; Sunyani (West Africa): Bishop Festus Yeboah-Asuamah; Grahamstown (Southern Africa): Bishop Ebenezer Ntlali SUNDAY 26 JANUARY EPIPHANY 3

St Andrew’s (Jarrom Street, Leicester) in the spirit of their patron saint have been casting their nets out of their boat to see where Jesus is drawing them to. They embarked on a pilot experimental Eucharistic service which took the ritual of their Anglo-Catholic heritage and weaved it with a Charismatic thread which encouraged a Spirit-led fresh expression which they called Spirit Space. These services have a contemplative flavour, acknowledging that we all have a piece of the wisdom - as the Word is broken open in a way which allows space to contemplate, to be with God, and allows time and space to respond to what God has revealed.

As well as the Spirit Space Eucharist, they also had a Spirit Space:Prayer Lab where a smaller group of people explored different ways of praying in order to deepen their Please pray for: relationship with God, and be encouraged in prayer by one another. This space was Holy • God would continue to gather and grow Ground with a tangible sense of God as they the Spirit Space community explored Visio Divina, Lectio Divina, praying • those who come would encounter with art, the rosary and praying the examen, God in a way which deepens and as well as resting in the presence of God strengthens their faith through Benediction. • in a true spirit of discipleship, people St Andrew’s have been so encouraged would draw together to support the through casting these nets, and the energy efforts of a small core from the St that they have found in these places, that Andrew’s congregation with the work they have decided to continue to explore with involved in Spirit Space Spirit Space and will be holding a Spirit Space Please also pray for those being Eucharist on the fourth Sunday of the month confirmed today at Market Harborough. from 3pm, at St Andrew’s. The first of these will be today - 26th January and the service starts with coffee and doughnuts, and leads Pray for the Anglican Episcopal Church of into worship at 3:30pm. All are welcome! Brazil: Archbishop Naudal Alves Gomes MON 27 JANUARY Diocese of Trichy Bishop D Chandrasekaran Following the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, we give thanks for the pioneering ecumenical witness of the , and for Churches Together in Leicestershire’s companion link with the Diocese of Trichy. London: Bishop Sarah Mullally

TUES 28 JANUARY St Philip’s, Leicester Jonathan Surridge (C) Give thanks for dedication and service of long standing members, and the new ideas that people have brought forward. We continue to pray as we discern God’s new calling for St Philip’s. Long Island (ECUSA): Bishop Lawrence Provenzano; Swansea & Brecon (Wales): Archbishop John Davies; Guadalcanal (Melanesia): Bishop Nathan Tome

WED 29 JANUARY College of Bishops Please pray for the meeting of the College of Bishops in Oxford, today and tomorrow. Los Angeles (ECUSA): Bishop John Harvey Taylor; Swaziland (Southern Africa): Bishop Ellinah Ntfombi Wamukoya

THURS 30 JANUARY College of Bishops Please pray for the meeting of the College of Bishops in Oxford. Louisiana (ECUSA): Bishop Morris Thompson Jr.; Sydney (Australia): Archbishop ; Tabora (Tanzania): Bishop Elias Chakupewa

FRI 31 JANUARY St Philip’s Centre Tom Wilson (Director) & staff We give thanks for the provision of funding and opportunities to develop stronger and deeper relationships with friends of many faiths and no faith. We ask for wisdom to know how best to respond to complex situations which have no clear or simple resolution. Luapula (Central Africa): Bishop ; Taita-Taveta (Kenya): Bishop Liverson Mng’onda

SAT 01 FEBRUARY Ascension Team: Christchurch, Thurnby Lodge & St Mary’s & St Barnabas Humberstone Paul Savage (C); Viv Froggatt (R) Please pray for the three parishes, as we discern how to grow in love with God, one another, our community and care for our world. Lucknow (North India): Bishop Peter Baldev; Guatemala (Central America): Archbishop Armando Guerra Soria Grahamstown (Southern Africa): Bishop Ebenezer Ntlali SUNDAY 2 FEBRUARY PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE / CANDLEMAS

Throughout many generations the Church has But what does it mean for us to be generous, spoken of giving; giving in service to the poor, as Christians and as Christian communities? giving in time and energy to ministry within the Over the coming weeks a number of churches church, giving of money to charitable causes. across the Diocese are considering these The Church also grapples with both an anxiety questions. A group gathered yesterday that we are perceived to always be talking to explore what it might mean to grow a about money, and a reticence to do so as it can Generous Church. We shared stories of feel awkward, intrusive and embarrassing. generosity from within our Diocese: some churches have undertaken a “Boomerang Generosity is of course more than just giving Offertory” – giving the collection one Sunday money. Generosity can be seen within the very back to the congregation, who then use it to nature of God; God gave first to us, through show God’s love in their community. the giving of his only Son, and with abundance beyond our imagination. There are examples of As we grow in knowledge and understanding faithful people showing generosity throughout of God’s generosity to us, so we seek to the bible: the generosity of self-identity respond with generosity in our own lives. As and relationship demonstrated by Ruth as such, generosity is a core part of our Everyday she chooses to remain with Naomi, and the Faith, a hallmark of Christian discipleship and generosity of attentiveness and comfort a witness to God’s love. demonstrated by Mary as she anointed Jesus’ feet with perfume. Please pray for: • churches who are exploring how to Grow a Generous Church • those who experience generosity, to glimpse something of the nature of God • individuals who give generously, in many ways, to their church and community • our diocesan Generous Giving team – Sally, Claire and Hannah Please also pray for the licensing of Revd Elaine Sutherland and Revd Canon John McGinley at Holy Trinity Leicester this evening.

Pray for the Anglican Church of Burundi: Archbishop Martin Blaise Nyaboho SUNDAY 2 FEBRUARY PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE / CANDLEMAS MON 3 FEBRUARY Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro Bishop Stanley Hotay Give thanks for the progress made in church planting over the past year. Pray especially for the parishes of Kiseu and Lucy Makao Mapya as they supply roofs for their churches as well as for pastors’ houses in Meserani and Basutu. Lui (South Sudan): Archbishop Stephen Mbalah; Taiwan (Episcopal Church): Bishop David Lai; Guildford: Bishop Andrew Watson

TUES 4 FEBRUARY The Resurrection, Leicester Paskal Clement (C); Sister Beverley CSF, Sister Christine CSF; Chrispal Anand (Reader in training); St Peter’s, Belgrave CE Primary School As the Church of the Resurrection enters into new phase, starting soon two new projects: Toddler Group and Messy Church. Praying for the team, and families that may join us. Lusaka (Central Africa): Bishop David Njovu; Tamale (West Africa): Bishop Jacob Ayeebo; Guinea (West Africa): Bishop Jacques Boston

WED 5 FEBRUARY St Peter’s Belgrave BMO Simon Stevens (Pio) We give thanks for our continued work in our school community and our new partnership with Holy Trinity as Resourcing Church; for openings into our estate and contacts with those not yet Christians. Lusitanian Church (Portugal): Bishop Jorge Cabral; Tanga (Tanzania): Archbishop Maimbo Mndolwa

THURS 6 FEBRUARY All Saints, Belgrave BMO Sunny George (C); Riffat Zamurad (R) Pray for our mission and ministry as we extend our hand of hope and hospitality to people of different faiths; and thank God for leading many from a casual conversation at a coffee morning to a blessing at the Communion Table. Luwero (Uganda): Bishop Eridard Nsubuga; Tarime (Tanzania): Bishop R Mwita Akiri; Tasmania (Australia): Bishop Richard Condie

FRI 7 FEBRUARY St Theodore of Canterbury Susan Leighton (C) We give thanks for the replacement roof of the church. In 2020 we mark the fortieth year of St Theodore’s church building – please pray for our celebrations as a church fellowship, and within the community. Lweru (Tanzania): Bishop Godfrey Mbelwa; Te Pihopatanga o Tai Tokerau (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Te Kitohi Wiremu Pikaahu

SAT 8 FEBRUARY Scraptoft & Netherhall Martin Court (C); Julie Harget (PA) Pray for the many new residents in the new-builds in Scraptoft, and for the forthcoming redevelopment of the golf course for housing. Pray for guidance to reach out to these new areas. Machakos (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Mutungi; Te Pihopatanga o Tairawhiti (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Archbishop Don Tamihere; Gujurat (North India): Bishop Silvans Christian SUNDAY 9 FEBRUARY THIRD SUNDAY BEFORE LENT

The Conference of European Churches, of which Bishop Guli is Vice-President, emerged from the fragmented and divided Europe of the 1940s and 1950s. Following the Second World War, there was a real need in Europe to overcome political divisions, and work for healing and peace. During the Cold War, a small group of church leaders in Eastern and Western Europe began to consider the Photo: possibility of bringing together churches in Albin Hillert/CEC European countries separated by different particular issues or areas, such as the political, economic, and social systems. Churches Commission for Migrants in Europe Their hope was that churches could become (CCME). These collaborations help CEC instruments for peace and understanding respond to a broader range of social and throughout a wounded continent. This original theological issues, including peacebuilding mission carries CEC forward today as they and reconciliation; human rights; economic continue to work for a humane, social and and ecological justice; employment and social sustainable Europe at peace with itself and issues; and bioethics. They are also developing its neighbours. expertise in ecclesiological and theological Today, CEC is a fellowship bringing together dialogue in areas including diaconia and 114 churches from Orthodox, Protestant, and women and youth in the churches. Anglican traditions from all over Europe for dialogue, advocacy, and joint action. Together Please pray for the challenges facing they strengthen our common witness, act in Europe in our time: service to Europe and the world, promote • Brexit; peace, and work for the unity of the Church. A network of National Councils of Churches • long-term economic difficulties in keeps them connected to national and Southern Europe; regional concerns. Every five years the • a massive influx of migrants and refugees; General Assembly (joined by many young • threats to peace and stability; people) meets to make decisions for the • military conflict in Eastern Ukraine; future of CEC, and set the direction of its work – most recently in early June in 2018 in • issues concerning people living Novi Sad, where they were addressed by the together with different cultures , amongst others. and religions. CEC maintains relationships with a number of partner organisations. These are church Pray for the Anglican Church of Canada: or ecumenical bodies with expertise in Archbishop Linda Nicholls MON 10 FEBRUARY General Synod Please pray for the General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in London this week. Madhya Kerala (South India): Archbishop Thomas Oommen; Te Pihopatanga o Upoko o Te Ika (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Waitohiariki Quayle; Gusau (Nigeria): Bishop John Garba Danbinta

TUES 11 FEBRUARY General Synod Please pray for the General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in London this week. Madi & West Nile (Uganda): Bishop Charles Collins Andaku; Te Pihopatanga o Upoko o Te Waipounamu (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Bishop ; Guyana (West Indies): Bishop Charles Davidson

WED 12 FEBRUARY General Synod Please pray for the General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in London this week. Madras (South India): Bishop George Jeyaraj; Temotu (Melanesia): Archbishop Leonard Dawea

THURS 13 FEBRUARY General Synod Please pray for the General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in London this week. Madurai-Ramnad (South India): Bishop Marialouis Joseph; Temuco (): Bishop Abelino Apeleo

FRI 14 FEBRUARY General Synod Please pray for the General Synod of the Church of England, meeting in London this week. Mahajanga (Indian Ocean): Bishop Spencer Speers; Terekeka (South Sudan): Bishop Paul Modi Farjala

SAT 15 FEBRUARY Diocese of Wyoming Bishop John Smylie Please pray for the continued growth and development of Fresh Expressions of faith across the diocese of Wyoming. Maiduguri (Nigeria): Bishop Emmanuel Morris; Territory of the People (Canada): Bishop Barbara Andrews; Gwagwalada (Nigeria): Bishop Moses Tabwaye SUNDAY 16 FEBRUARY SECOND SUNDAY BEFORE LENT

housing for workers and their families, buying better equipment. With Fairtrade YOU have the power to change the world every day. With simple shopping choices you can get farmers a better deal, which means they can make their own decisions, improve their position, control their future and lead a dignified life. There are over 6,000 Fairtrade products from coffee and tea to flowers and gold, so when you shop, look for the FAIRTRADE Mark. Choosing Fairtrade is an easy way to make a positive difference – see their website: www.fairtrade.org.uk/Buying-Fairtrade Fairtrade Fortnight in 2020 takes place from 24th February to 8th March, with a focus on As we give thanks for the food on our cocoa farmers. But what is Fairtrade? plates, please pray for: Fairtrade is about better prices, decent • producers as they grow their crops and working conditions, local sustainability, and craft their works; grant them wisdom fair terms of trade for farmers and workers and discernment as they make decisions in the developing world. The Fairtrade label about how to use the benefits of guarantees that disadvantaged producers in Fairtrade the developing world are getting a better deal. • the Fairtrade Foundation and their work; By requiring companies to pay sustainable for the Just Fairtrade shop in Leicester prices (which must never fall lower than and retailers elsewhere the market price), Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which • ourselves that we have an traditionally discriminates against the understanding of the impact of our poorest, weakest producers. As well as choices when we shop; that we look for suppliers receiving a minimum price that and buy Fairtrade products covers the cost of sustainable production, they also receive an extra premium that the workers invest in social or economic Pray for the Church of the Province of Central development projects, such as providing Africa: Archbishop Albert Chama schools, nursery care for working mothers, training for workers, better MON 17 FEBRUARY Diocese of Kiteto Bishop Isaiah Chambala Pray for Bishop Isaiah as he seeks God’s discernment in building women’s ministry in the diocese. Pray for the development of the Namelock Institute for Theology, in both the land and training courses. Maine (ECUSA): Bishop Stephen Lane; Texas (ECUSA): Bishop Andrew Doyle

TUES 18 FEBRUARY St Stephen, North Evington Irving Richards (C) Please pray for those exercising ministry and leadership in our parish. Maiwut (South Sudan): Bishop Peter Lual; The Arctic (Canada): Bishop David Parsons; Haiti (Episcopal Church): Bishop Jean Duracin

WED 19 FEBRUARY Stocking Farm and Beaumont Leys Stephen Delaforce (C); Liz Smith (PA) Please pray for our Messy Worship pilot study, led by Sue Hesselwood, which aims to offer non- churched families who visit our premises in connection with our social outreach projects, a safe space to encounter something of God. Makamba (Burundi): Archbishop Martin Nyaboho; South Carolina (ECUSA): Bishop Gladstone Adams

THURS 20 FEBRUARY St Aidan Simon Lumby (C) Please pray for all involved in mission, ministry and leadership at St Aidan’s, and for our local community. Makueni (Kenya): Bishop Francis Mboya Matui; The Murray (Australia): Bishop Keith Dalby; Spain: Bishop Carlos Lopez-Lozano

FRI 21 FEBRUARY West Leicester Mission Partnership Convenors: Margaret Gillespie & Keith Magee We give thanks for Revd Bertin Hermo and Revd Liz Wilson who have joined us since the start of the summer. Please pray for us as we start to plan a series of prayer walks around our parishes. Makurdi (Nigeria): Bishop Nathan Inyom; Thika (Kenya): Bishop Julius Njugana Wanyoike

SAT 22 FEBRUARY Wyggestons Tony Leighton (Master) As we experience a major building project, please pray for good communication with the contractors. Please also pray that we are able to attract new residents who would benefit in living in a place of safety and comfort. Malabar (South India): Bishop Royce Manoj Victor; Thoothukudi-Nazareth (South India): Bishop Samuel Clement; Hanuato’o (Melanesia): Bishop Alfred Karibongi SUNDAY 23 FEBRUARY SUNDAY NEXT BEFORE LENT

Today is Poverty Sunday. Our Diocesan Also active in our diocese is CAP (‘Christians Social Responsibility Enabler, Revd Canon Against Poverty’), with the strapline ‘Always Alison Adams, writes: Hope’, aiming to release families from poverty through debt and budget counselling. They Poverty is by no means straightforward. It’s work alongside other excellent organisations, certainly financial deprivation - but what does both Church-based and non-faith affiliated, that mean? How relative is it - people in some also providing support in financial other countries exist on far less than our management at times of crisis. Pray for minimum wage? And, while some parts of this them, but also for people within the statutory country are cheaper to live in than others, the agencies, whose work is both challenging and poverty there is more extreme. Let’s pray into challenged, and for the alleviation of poverty all of that. through national strategy. Let’s also beware of stereotyping. ‘The poor’ Pray too for those developing local strategy are folk like us whose life experiences and - in particular the Fair Finance Strategy abilities have landed them in difficulty. People Group - a coalition of organisations under slip into poverty for many reasons - loss the Diocesan umbrella, with a clear action of job, breakdown of family relationships, plan, drawing in financial institutions and mental health issues, bad decisions….. partnering with Clockwise Credit Union and so on. Poverty is not just about money: and local communities, to support people in poverty of relationships and isolation both financial difficulty. affect peoples’ abilities to live stable and meaningful lives. Finally let’s pray for all who seek to mitigate the effects of poverty and help individuals So how to pray? Pray for Church Action in crisis. Pray for Foodbanks, lunch clubs, on Poverty, an ecumenical Christian social holiday hunger programmes and other Church justice charity tackling poverty in the UK activities where the Gospel plays out in a through raising awareness and campaigning myriad of diverse loving ways. with the strapline ‘speaking truth to power’. Pray too that we, following Christ, may be Pray for the Anglican Church of Central active in righting injustices. America: Bishop Julio Murray Thompson MON 24 FEBRUARY Diocese of Trichy Pray for Bishop Chandrasekaran of Trichy and for his vision of reviving the Church’s work in health care and education amongst the poorest communities of their part of India. Malaita (Melanesia): Bishop Samuel Sahu; Tirunelveli (South India): Bishop Jayaraj Christdoss; Harare (Central Africa): Bishop Chad Gandiya

TUES 25 FEBRUARY Leicester, St Anne, St Paul & St Augustine Liz Wilson, Jan Gough (C); Margaret Gillespie (R- PTO) Pray for Liz at the beginning of her new ministry, giving thanks for everyone who supported and cared for the benefice during the interregnum; for our ‘Open the Book’ team and for relationships with local schools to continue to flourish. Malakal (South Sudan): Archbishop Hilary Deng; Toamasina (Indian Ocean): Bishop Jean Paul Solo

WED 26 FEBRUARY Ash Wednesday As we begin this period of repentance, we pray for our growth in discipleship and a drawing closer to God. Malek (South Sudan): Bishop Peter Mayom;Tohoku (Japan): Bishop John Yoshida

THURS 27 FEBRUARY BLT meeting Please pray for today’s Bishop’s Leadership Team meeting. Malek Rup (South Sudan): Bishop Peter Agok; Tokyo (Japan): Bishop Francis Takahashi; Toliara (Indian Ocean): Bishop Todd McGregor

FRI 28 FEBRUARY The Abbey Team Ministry Mark Battison (C); Margaret Gillespie (R -PTO); Liz Piki (PA) Please pray for all working to repair our ancient church – that we may be able to continue to be a welcoming, worshipping community despite the industrial safety barriers! And for our ministry with two local schools. Malindi (Kenya): Bishop Lawrence Dena; Tonj (South Sudan): Bishop Peter Yuol Gur

SAT 29 FEBRUARY Holy Spirit, Leicester (St Nicholas and St Andrew) Karen Rooms, Morna Simpson (C); Herbert Fadriquela (Anglican Chaplain to the Filipino Community); Donald Sherriff (R) For everyday faith lived out in city institutions in the parish: De Montfort University, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester Tigers and Leicester City FC. For the work and witness of LGBTQI+ Christians from St Nicholas and across the Diocese. Manchester: Bishop David Walker; Torit (South Sudan): Bishop Bernard Balmoi SUNDAY 1 MARCH LENT 1

During Lent, Bishop Guli will be spending The title of the pilgrimage, ‘Salt of the significant time each week out and around Earth: Lenten pilgrimage’, is also the the Diocese - in different locations and title of the Cathedral’s Lent, Holy Week contexts, learning about and joining in and Easter season. Bishop Guli starts the activities embodying everyday faith in prayerful journey at the evening Eucharist action, and praying with and for those at the Cathedral on Ash Wednesday, and will communities. Not only will this form complete the journey by returning on Good significant part of her personal Lenten Friday to reflect and pray with the Cathedral spiritual focus, but also, as stories emerge congregation at the foot of the Cross, as part and as we pray together, she hopes it will of the Good Friday liturgy. inspire and encourage the wider Diocese. During the season, the theme will feature She will be celebrating, reflecting, reviewing in the Cathedral’s programme of events. and blessing projects – from those already Displays in the Cathedral will also feature well-established to those just beginning, Bishop Guli’s various Lenten locations, with and, above all, praying with and for these prayer stations inviting visitors to pray for expressions of God’s love, energy and in these locations, Churches and projects. Each local neighbourhoods. The visits will include Deanery features in the locations, which vary foodbanks, lunch clubs and cafes, money from urban to rural, small villages, towns and advice services, environmental activities and the city. many other expressions of service to the More details of her itinerary will appear on community which look outward beyond the the diocesan website, and she is hoping to Church and involve both church members and write a blog during the pilgrimage. the wider public.

Please pray for: • the many community projects supported by local churches across our diocese • our ‘loving service of the world’ which embodies everyday faith in action • those Bishop Guli will encounter on her pilgrimage

Pray for the : Archbishop Hector (Tito) Zavala Munoz MON 2 MARCH Bishop’s Council residential Please pray for the Bishop’s Council residential at Launde Abbey with the Area Deans and Deanery Lay Chairs. Mandalay (Myanmar): Bishop David Naing; Toronto (Canada): Bishop Colin Johnson

TUES 3 MARCH Bishop’s Council residential Please pray for the Bishop’s Council residential at Launde Abbey with the Area Deans and Deanery Lay Chairs. Manicaland (Central Africa): Bishop Erick Ruwona; Toungoo (Myanmar): Bishop Saw John Wilme; Hawaii (ECUSA): Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick

WED 4 MARCH Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro Bishop Stanley Hotay Pray for Munguishi Bible College in their ministry to train and equip pastors and evangelists. Pray especially for Revd Joseph Bea, the Principal, as he juggles many competing demands. Maper (South Sudan): Bishop William Machar; Trichy-Tanjore (South India): Bishop

THURS 5 MARCH Southern Edge Mission Partnership Co-convenor: John Raven As we terminate this MP we thank God for the youth work that has been accomplished, and pray for a lasting effect among the hundreds of young people, whose lives were touched by it. Mara (Tanzania): Bishop George Okoth; Trinidad & Tobago (West Indies): Bishop Claude Berkley; Truro: Bishop Philip Mountstephen

FRI 6 MARCH World Day of Prayer Please pray for and with the women of Zimbabwe as they and their families face the continuing challenges of a struggling economy and the aftermath of drought. Maralal (Kenya): Bishop Jacob Lesuuda Tuam, Killala & Achonry (Ireland): Bishop Patrick Rooke

SAT 7 MARCH Aylestone, St Andrew with St James Rowena Bass (C); Barbara Paget (R); Brenda Spencer (R-PTO) We give thanks for 800 years of St Andrew’s in Aylestone, and for the Christian community which has been here for much longer. May all we do as a church now, continue to build the Kingdom. Marathwada (North India): Bishop Madhukar Kasab; Twic East (South Sudan): Bishop Ezekiel Malangdit; Hereford: Bishop Richard Frith SUNDAY 8 MARCH LENT 2

Louise Davis has taken up the role of Chaplain to Leicester City Women Football Club. She will be a pastorally proactive, spiritually reactive, non-judgmental listening ear, working with everyone from the Under 9s girls to the physiotherapists, while focusing on the first team female players. “I’m really excited by this new opportunity,” says Louise. “I think sports chaplaincy is a great way to bring God’s love and compassion into an environment that you wouldn’t historically associate with faith.” Louise is volunteering her time with the club (alongside her ‘day job’ with the national rural charity Germinate) and has committed Captain of Leicester City Women, Holly to attend weekly training and every home Morgan, believes the support of a chaplain game on a Sunday afternoon. She is also is increasingly necessary in today’s game. available to talk, in confidence, around these “Football is such a competitive sport, it can fixtures. “You’ll find me in the clubhouse, with be difficult – not just physically, but mentally. my knitting, ready to listen. As a chaplain, When you’re not feeling confident, or in the right the football itself isn’t my first priority. head space, that can have a massive impact on Fundamentally, I’m there as someone people the game; so it’s great to have someone to talk can talk to about whatever they want... When to, and listen, to let those thoughts out.”tained a player is injured, I’ll be concentrating on angels without knowing it!” how that’s affecting their mental health and emotional wellbeing, rather than when Please pray: they’ll be back on the field... When everyone is judging on results, I’m the one person who • Louise’s work with Leicester City won’t be.” Women’s FC and for all involved in sports chaplaincy Louise says “For me, the chaplaincy role is about being present. It’s about forging • those taking the gospel into new and deep relationships and building trust, and challenging contexts proving myself to be a consistent and reliable source of support... One of the challenges • those in sport struggling with for me is to be a Christian, with integrity and mental health authenticity, whilst navigating the negative preconceptions that some have about people Pray for the Anglican Church of the Congo: of faith.” Archbishop Zacharie Katanda MON 9 MARCH Diocese of Wyoming Bishop John Smylie We pray for Bishop John and his wife Gill as they transition into retirement, and give thanks for their partnership in the gospel over these last years. Maridi (South Sudan): Bishop Moses Zungo; Udi (Nigeria): Bishop Chjioke Aneke; Highveld (Southern Africa): Bishop Charles May

TUES 10 MARCH House of Bishops Please pray for today’s one day meeting of the House of Bishops. Ughelli (Nigeria): Bishop Cyril Odutemu; Ho (West Africa): Bishop Matthias Mededues-Badohu

WED 11 MARCH St Christopher, Leicester Chris Collins (C); Elaine Smith (Evng) Samworth Enterprise Academy Give thanks for the new contacts made with people locally through various means - Foodbank, Craft Café, door-to-door, Angels & Heroes. Please pray for the Holy Spirit’s power so that these contacts come to know Jesus for themselves. Marsabit (Kenya): Bishop Daniel Qampicha; Ukhahlamba (Southern Africa): Bishop Moses Madywabe

THURS 12 MARCH St Hugh, Eyres Monsell Andrew Lee (C) We thank God for Fr. Andrew as our Vicar and for this church of Eyres Monsell (and Huncote). Bind us to all men and women of our parishes, so that together we may bring the Good News to all. Maryland (ECUSA): Bishop Eugene Sutton; Ukwa (Nigeria): Bishop Samuel Kelechi Eze; Umuahia (Nigeria): Archbishop Ikechi Nwosu

FRI 13 MARCH Holy Apostles, Leicester John McGinley, Jenny Ridge, Tony Leighton (C), Ian Newcombe, Denis Walsh (R); Ashley Prince (PA); Sylvia Herbert (PA-PTO) Give thanks for growing signs of mission and outreach in the church membership. Please pray for planning permission process for the demolition of the current church building and acceptance of plans for a new church, and flats to finance the development. Masasi (Tanzania): Bishop ; Upper Shire (Central Africa): Bishop Brighton Vitta Malasa

SAT 14 MARCH Holy Trinity & St John the Divine, Leicester John McGinley, Jitesh Patel, Elaine Sutherland, David Hendra, Jenny Ridge (C); Chris Davidson, Bridget Patel, Rachel Tingley, Lois Cobold, Helen Feathers, Mandy Forrest, Wyn Rees, Anne Scott, Cathryn Shilling, Frances Watts, Andrew James, Alex Herrick (Pio) Pray for us during this time of staff transition; for our partnership with St Peter’s Community Church; for the establishment of an international fresh expression of church for people of many different cultures. Maseno East (Kenya): Bishop Joshua Owiti; Upper South Carolina (ECUSA): Bishop Andrew Waldo; Hokkaido (Japan): Archbishop Nathaniel Uematsu SUNDAY 15 MARCH LENT 3

Local Celebrations is one of the ways in & All Angels, Ravenstone which Together Leicester supports churches • St Peter’s, Glenfield to serve their local communities. It is a • St Hugh’s, Market Harborough process, facilitated by Sian, the Development Worker, which helps churches notice what their local communities have, where God is Please pray for them that through this at work and the spaces where God could be process they will: at work, and to reflect on how the church can best serve their local community. We focus • share Christ’s love in their local on celebrating the gifts God has given each communities as they pray for, listen to of our communities, and acknowledge that and affirm the people around them in every place there are things that people • rejoice with those who rejoice and want to see changed, sharing Christ’s love weep with those who weep in their local and pointing to how He is at work in local communities, so that people in their communities. Having noticed and listened, we communities are heard, by the Church celebrate with the local communities all the and by other institutions that affect the good things they have to offer. local community • understand what God is doing in their The five groups Sian is currently working communities, and what God is wanting with are: to do in the future • Castle Donington Churches – St • have a vision for who God is calling Edward’s Castle Donington, Castle them to work with, in what ways, to be Donington Community Church, Castle part of enabling the transformation and Donington Baptist Church and Castle flourishing of their local community Donington Methodist Church

• St John the Baptist, Whitwick Pray for the Church of England: • Coalville Christ Church and St Michael Archbishop Justin Welby MON 16 MARCH Diocese of Kiteto Bishop Isaiah Chambala Pray for the development of the dispensary and the appointment of a medical officer and nurse. Pray for a successful outcome for our Tanzania link’s visit to Kiteto this Spring, especially in regard to the dispensary. Pray that the transport needs of the diocese can be met as this is hampering its work. Maseno North (Kenya): Bishop Charles Asilutwa; Utah (ECUSA): Bishop Scott Hayashi; Honduras (Episcopal Church): Bishop Lloyd Allen

TUES 17 MARCH Imprint Leicester Pray for this plant from Holy Trinity two years ago, meeting in St Andrew’s Hall. Imprint has grown to approximately 100 young adults, many from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds. Please pray for their lay minister ‘ST’ who has been appointed to lead. Maseno South (Kenya): Bishop Charles Ong’injo; Uyo (Nigeria): Bishop Prince Antai; Hong Kong Island: Archbishop Paul Kwong

WED 18 MARCH De Montfort University Chaplain: Johannes Arens Please pray for our process of exploration and negotiation with other Christian denominations, other faith representatives and the university about how religion and belief can be incorporated into the wider student offering at DMU and how collaborative chaplaincy can be arranged. Maseno West (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Wasonga; Valparaiso (Chile): Bishop Samuel Morrison

THURS 19 MARCH Joseph of Nazareth Please pray for all fathers: for those bringing up children who are not their own; for those estranged from their families; and those who long for a child. Masindi-Kitara (Uganda): Bishop George Kasangaki; Vanuatu (Melanesia): Bishop James Tama Vermont (ECUSA): Bishop Thomas Ely

FRI 20 MARCH University of Leicester Chaplain: Luke Briggs Please pray for our team of chaplains, our volunteers and our many new opportunities to communicate the gospel in word and deed, connecting with students & staff of all faiths and none. Massachusetts (ECUSA): Bishop Alan Gates; Victoria Nyanza (Tanzania): in vacancy

SAT 21 MARCH HMP Leicester Chaplain: Helen Stokes Please pray for all at HMP Leicester, especially for those men who leave us without secure accommodation. Give thanks for the work of the Leicestershire Homelessness Charter, and all charities who work to end homelessness. Masvingo (Central Africa): Bishop Godfrey Tawonezwi; Virgin Islands (Episcopal Church): Bishop Ambrose Gumbs; Hpa-an (Myanmar): Bishop Saw Mark Maung Doe SUNDAY 22 MARCH LENT 4 / MOTHERING SUNDAY

wishes to grow the church outside its traditional boundaries (including continuing a focus on Fresh Expressions); who is “open to innovation” but “unafraid of failure” as creative ways of being and doing church evolve; who is a “spiritual leader who will respect and honour the bedrock values of the diocese while crafting a bold vision for On 24th April 2019, the process began the future”; and who will “continue to grow to elect the 10th Bishop of our partner with us in our journey toward inclusive love diocese of Wyoming, to replace Bishop rooted in God’s Kingdom as part of the John Smylie. The process is very different Episcopal Branch of the Jesus Movement”. to that of the Church of England. A profile and job description was drawn up by a Give thanks for: Search Committee after consultation across the diocese. Applications closed • our partnership in the gospel with on 13th November 2019, and the diocese dioceses across the world is now in a period of discernment, during Please pray for: which candidates will be interviewed. In • the diocese of Wyoming in this May, three candidates will be proposed to time of transition, and for all the diocese, and over the summer they will exercising leadership go on tour around the diocese. The election of the new bishop is scheduled to occur at • the discernment process to elect the Wyoming Diocesan Convention, 18-20 a new Bishop September 2020. Then all other dioceses in the Episcopal Church (USA) must approve the result before the ordination A prayer from the Diocese of Wyoming and consecration of the new Bishop can Gracious God, we give thanks for the great occur (on 13th February 2021). Bishop John work and wisdom of the Search Committee will continue to remain fully engaged in for developing a vision for our future Bishop the ministry of the diocese throughout the that represents our hopes and dreams. election process, until his retirement on the May these dreams be carried out into the day his successor is consecrated. world to those discerning their call to the The diocesan profile seeks “a Bishop episcopate. Grant them clarity and courage who will visit, love and value every faith as they open their hearts to God’s call. community in our diocese, regardless Continue to guide those who are leading us of the size, the number of congregants, through this process with wisdom and open leadership model, or resources”; who values hearts. We pray this in the name of your Son, and practices collaborative ministry; who our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. MON 23 MARCH Diocese of Trichy Bishop D Chandrasekaran As Bishop Guli prepares to visit Trichy, accompanied by ordained and lay women leaders from Anglican and Methodist churches, pray for them and the women evangelists, pastors, teachers and medical staff who serve the mission of the Church in South India. Matabeleland (Central Africa): Bishop Cleophas Lunga; Virginia (ECUSA): Bishop Shannon Johnston; Huron (Canada): in vacancy

TUES 24 MARCH BLT residential Please pray for the Bishop’s Leadership Team on residential in Derby. Matana (Burundi): Bishop Seth Ndayirukiye; Wad Medani (Sudan): Bishop Saman Mahdi; Hyderabad (Pakistan): Bishop Kaleem John

WED 25 MARCH Annunciation of our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary We pray for all those receiving unexpected news today, that they may be conscious of God’s presence with them. Matlosane (Southern Africa): Bishop Stephen Diseko; Waiapu (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Andrew Hedge

THURS 26 MARCH BLT residential Please pray for the Bishop’s Leadership Team on residential in Derby. Mauritius (Indian Ocean): in vacancy; Waikato & Taranaki (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Archbishop Philip Richardson; Wangaratta (Australia): Bishop John Parkes

FRI 27 MARCH Trinity Hospital Chaplain: Barry Naylor Trinity Hospital has existed, as an Almshouse, since 1331. Please pray for residents, staff and trustees, as we seek to build an attractive and supportive community and develop plans to improve our facilities. Mbaise (Nigeria): Bishop Chamberlain Ogunedo; Warri (Nigeria): Bishop Christian Ide

SAT 28 MARCH UHL chaplaincy Please pray for the ecumenical and multi-faith chaplaincy team at our city’s hospitals, supporting staff and patients with a huge range of needs. Mbale (Uganda): Bishop Patrick Gidudu; Washington (ECUSA): Bishop Mariann Budde; Ibadan (Nigeria): Archbishop Joseph Akinfenwa; Ibadan North (Nigeria): Bishop Segun Okubadejo; Ibadan South (Nigeria): Bishop Akintunde Popoola SUNDAY 29 MARCH LENT 5 / PASSIONTIDE BEGINS

An edited extract from +Guli’s article in the Church of England newspaper: The world around us has changed enormously in recent years and we are conscious of greater multiculturalism where we live, in our places of work, and in society more generally. But in our churches, regardless of the wider context in which that church sits, you are likely to find a congregation that is primarily, if not totally, white British. In the Diocese of Leicester, we are intentionally working towards creating churches that reflect the transformed attitude towards how we community around them and that are places welcome people, how we celebrate diversity, of welcome for all people regardless of the and how we are truly open to change through colour of their skin or their cultural heritage. our encounter with others. We are creating six intercultural So whilst this initiative is undoubtedly about worshipping communities (IWCs) over increased involvement of BAME Christians the next five years. One is a new plant and in diocesan life, at its core lies a journey five will develop existing churches into towards greater openness and generosity of places of greater ethnic diversity, with the heart – one that truly sees the face of Christ aim of planting and grafting more churches in others so that none are strangers and themselves from 2024 onwards. An IWC aliens, but together we are fellow citizens in is essentially where people from different the household of God. cultural and ethnic heritage deliberately interact with one another in order to deepen Please pray for: their understanding and experience of God and each other. They learn and grow • openness, generosity and together to build communities which are welcome to all transformed, shaped and moulded from each other’s experiences. The project also aims • our six intercultural worshipping to encourage more BAME Christians to get communities as they develop involved in a range of areas in parish and and grow diocesan life, including lay leadership and • Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy, our BAME ordained ministries. Mission and Ministry Enabler, and We are striving for something richer and the project team of Suzanne Hansen, more meaningful - an integrated and shared Luke Fogg and Aletta Carpenter Christian life that revels in difference. This van Barthold is about conversion of heart and mind – a MON 30 MARCH Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro Bishop Stanley Hotay Pray for Revd Maurice, the Headteacher of St Paul’s Primary School Arusha, especially for his plans to grow and develop the school environment. Mbamili (Nigeria): Bishop Henry Okeke; Wau (South Sudan): Archbishop Moses Deng Bol; Ibba (South Sudan): Bishop Wilson Kamani

TUES 31 MARCH Clergy with PTO in City of Leicester deanery Please pray for Mark Aldridge, Rupert Allen, Pip Berry, Derek Brown, Walter Burleigh, Andy Cain, David Clark, Sr Beverley Davies, and Arthur Deegan. Mbeere (Kenya): Bishop Moses Nthukah; Wellington (Aotearoa, NZ & Polynesia): Bishop Justin Duckworth; Idah (Nigeria): Bishop Joseph Musa

WED 1 APRIL Clergy with PTO in City of Leicester deanery Please pray for Stephen Foster, Janet Gasper, John Gates, Jan Gough, Keith Hebden, Derek Hole, Alan Humphrey and Russell Hunt.

THURS 2 APRIL Clergy with PTO in City of Leicester deanery Please pray for Rajni Kaneria, Aphro McCullough, Brian Robertson, Alison Roche, Keith Shepherd, Peter Tailby, Peter Taylor and John Tonkin.

FRI 3 APRIL Those preparing for confirmation Please pray for all those preparing for confirmation in the season of Eastertide.

SAT 4 APRIL Preparations for Holy Week Please pray for all those preparing to lead their worshipping communities through Holy Week as we journey first to the foot of the cross and then to the empty tomb.