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Continuing our series from deanery leaders, Revd Alison Bennett, Assistant Area Dean of Lyndhurst, writes...
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
In these days following the joy of Easter Sunday, we are drawn into the stories of Jesus’ resurrection appearances. In John’s Gospel we read of Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene in the garden, and her recognising him as he speaks her name. |
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We read of Jesus appearing to the disciples locked together in fear and how he speaks peace into their lives. And then the wonderful encounter with Thomas, who needed to see and feel and touch to believe.
Later we read of the risen Jesus’ beach encounter with Peter, who had got things so wrong, who had denied that he had even known Jesus. And in a moment where failure meets grace, Peter is reinstated and offered a fresh start, a new beginning.
I think that we can probably see something of ourselves in each of these gloriously flawed and fragile people; and we see Jesus meeting each of them in their place of need, just where they are, with words of peace and love, of restoration and hope.
And so, he meets with us... in our insecurities, in our doubts, in our failures, in our sense of not quite being good enough… and he speaks each of our names.
Malcolm Guite, poet and priest, sums this up so beautifully in his Easter Dawn Sonnet (from 'Sounding the Seasons'), and I finish with his words:
‘And then she hears her name, she hears Love say
The Word that turns her night, and ours, to day.' |
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Easter Celebrations Across the Diocese of Winchester |
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From quiet reflections to passion plays, Messy Church to sunrise services, Easter crafts to baptisms, churches across our diocese have been remembering Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection. One of the people gathered with St Mark's Church at Highcliffe Beach said: "It was joyous to reflect on the risen Christ as the sun rose on Easter Sunday, praying and worshipping together on the clifftop. We were reminded of God’s wonderous gifts to humanity, from the natural beauty of creation, to the greatest gift of all – Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.” |
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On Maunday Thursday, all those in ministry across our diocese were invited to Winchester Cathedral to renew their commitment and to be anointed with oil, together seeking God for the pouring out of the gifts of the Holy Spirit on his Church. Thank you to everyone who came! The photos (see below) captured a wonderful occasion for our diocesan family. |
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Supporting Estates Ministry Within Our Diocese |
As part of his role as diocesan Estates Champion, Revd Ed Haycock wants to gather together clergy serving in our estates communities to share ideas and encouragement. The first event was held at Lord’s Hill Church with a talk by Revd Cris Rogers, Vicar of All Hallows Bow, who said, "We should see our estates as a garden of Eden to tend and serve and love." |
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New Faith & Generosity Lectionary Resource |
This month's lectionary reflection, for the third Sunday of Easter, looks at The Walk to Emmaus shared in Luke 24:13-35. These lectionary reflections can be used for preaching or personal reflection, drawing on readings from the Common Worship Lectionary for the chosen week. |
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What Will Your Church Do For Ride+Stride 2026? |
From knitathons to bell ringing, Ride+Stride isn't just about walking and cycling! Taking place on 12 September 2026, all sorts of sponsored events will be taking place to raise money for repairs and restoration to local churches. How will your church be getting involved?
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Copyright and Livestreaming Guidance |
We've recently had a few questions about copyright restrictions when livestreaming services, especially when it comes to the worship music. Churches may need additional copyright permissions when recording or streaming a service. Find tips, advice, and practical steps for churches via the webpage below. |
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Resources for Vocations Sunday |
26 April 2026
The national church have produced various resources for Vocations Sunday, including:
- Service of the Word
- Service of Holy Communion
- Alternative texts
- A short vocations film
- Vocations postcard template
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Church Commissioners’ Stakeholder Event |
4 June, 10am, Lambeth Palace
This interactive day will bring together stakeholders from across the Church to take part in guided, stakeholder‑led discussions on the Commissioners’ work, alongside the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged, with places offered on a first‑come basis. Please register by Monday 11 May. |
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Registrations Open for Churches Count on Nature 2026 |
6-14 June 2026
Churches Count on Nature is a great chance to explore the biodiversity around your church, engaging directly with nature. If you're planning to run an event, you can now register it with Caring for God’s Acre and have your church added to their map of events. It’s a great way for new people to find out about your event! |
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Curious about theology? Join us for a short, seven-session journey into the heart of core theological ideas - designed to equip, inspire, and deepen your faith. Led by the diocesan training team, this course is open to everyone - no prior study, no academic requirements, just a desire to explore and grow. Come as you are and discover how theology can enrich your walk with God! |
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Winchester Diocese Evangelical Network (WDEN) Launch Event |
25 June, 12pm, Venue TBC
All are welcome to come along to the WDEN Launch Event in June, and hear from speaker Revd Dr Ian Paul on the theme of 'Revelation and the End of the World'. The WDEN is affiliated with the Church of England Evangelical Council, and is for the encouragement and support of evangelicals in our diocese. |
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Events Around the Diocese |
15 April 9:15am, All Saints Awbridge |
21 April 9:30am, Old Alresford Place |
29-30 April, 9:30am, Old Alresford Place |
7 May, 1:30pm, Old Alresford Place |
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11 May, 2pm, Old Alresford Place |
16 May, 10am, St Paul's Bursledon |
16 May, 6:30-8pm, Winchester Cathedral |
1 July, 9am, St Paul's Winchester |
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Around the Diocese and Beyond... |
Do you have a vacancy you'd like us to share?
Get in touch with communications@winchesterdiocese.org. |
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