Last week Bath and Wells was represented at two national events aimed at shining a light on social action and advocacy. The events brought together together church leaders, politicians and practitioners. Deanery and Parish Support Adviser, Claire Horton is also our Magnificat Advocate, representing those parishes which include areas that are high on the Index of Multiple Deprivation.
Claire says, “It was a privilege and honour to have been invited by Bishop Rob Wickham, CEO of the Church Urban Fund (CUF) to a service at Westminster Abbey and a Christmas reception at No 10 Downing Street.” Claire has been working with CUF, on behalf of our diocese and the Magnificat parishes, looking at how to support grass roots social action and advocacy nationally.
Westminster Abbey Advent Service
The Advent service at Westminster Abbey, attended by King Charles, focused on the plight of Christians facing persecution around the world. It was led by leaders from across different Christian traditions.
Claire says, “It was a very moving service with a real sense of unity for justice and peace across the world. I was moved by the testimony of Nibqa Nevash, who spoke to raise awareness for the plight of young Afghan girls. She gave a brave witness and spoke of her happiness at being able to celebrate Christmas openly now that she lives in the UK.
“The sermon was given by Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, who recently spoke at Bath and Wells' Pre Advent retreat day. He called for the rejection of intolerance and spoke of the ‘massive persecution of Christians in so many places.’ He said, ‘With God, nothing is impossible.’
“I was inspired by the service which shared the stories of people facing adversity but affirmed us all in the knowledge that all are loved by God.”
Downing Street reception
At the Christmas reception at Downing Street, Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government spoke on behalf of Keir Starmer and the government, to give a huge thank you and acknowledgement for all those working so hard to make a difference in our communities.
Baroness Bardenoch led the opening prayers. And Jasmine Mitchell, this year’s Great British Bake Off winner, gave an inspiring talk about radical hospitality and how the church is a light and hope in our communities.
Claire says, “There was a real diversity of people from different denominations from across the UK. It was a gift to meet people who are engaged in similar work in other parts of the country and to share our stories of faith and hope in our communities.
“It is difficult to capture what a joyous celebration it was. It was such a humbling time and also a huge privilege. I have returned to Bath and Wells uplifted and inspired, and I look forward to sharing that encouragement with all across our diocese.”