In the Diocese of York, racial justice is supported by our Racial Justice Education Adviser, Gerald Fox. In this nationally funded role, Gerald encourages learning, conversation, and action so that churches can reflect more fully on what it means to live Christ’s story in their communities.

This year’s event was held on Monday 22 March at St Martin’s Conference Centre, next to Leicester Cathedral, now widely known as the resting place of King Richard III. Here, Gerald reflects on the day and some of the key themes that emerged

The biblical foundation for racial justice

After a welcome and opening prayers, the Revd Canon Guy Hewitt, Director of the Racial Justice Unit, gave a presentation on growing social polarisation and the rise of Christian nationalism. He told us that there is currently a national, bishop-led working group looking at these issues and seeking to shape a church response.

Guy suggested that the context for both our Christian faith and the work of racial justice can be found in scripture, including 1 John 4:16, “God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them”, and Luke 10:27, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.”

He went on to say that welcoming and loving the stranger is an imperative that flows from our belief in the imago Dei – that every person is made in the image of God. He argued that growing polarisation in society is often driven by people holding tightly to social identities rather than to our identity in Christ.

He also said that, because of our unity in Christ, we cannot reject those who come to faith, including those drawn from the far right. At the same time, we must be ready to challenge anyone who seeks to distort the Christian faith for their own agenda.

Responding to a divided society

Guy also reflected that the work of racial justice is harder now than it was five years ago, when the Archbishops’ Racial Justice Taskforce published From Lament to Action. Hostility towards migrants, pressure on charities working with diverse communities, and public resistance to the accommodation of other faiths were all named as signs of a more difficult climate.

Part of the response to these developments, he said, is to remind people that we do not flourish alone. In Ubuntu this is expressed in the phrase, “I am because we are.” We need to resist the temptation to exclude and recover a sense of the common good. In times of economic pressure, people can become more fearful and more likely to look for someone to blame. What follows is often the dehumanising of others.

He argued that the Church must respond with the radical inclusiveness of Jesus. We are called to love even those who hate or oppose us, and we can only do that by the grace of God. We cannot fight hate with hate. As the established Church, the Church of England is uniquely placed to play an important role in addressing increasing social polarisation. We must use our presence in the public square for the public good.

Guy’s presentation was followed by a discussion of the issues and challenges he had raised.

Shared learning from across the dioceses

The rest of the day was given to updates from the dioceses represented at the gathering. Each person was asked to share one highlight to celebrate, one insight they had gained, and one challenge they were facing. Representatives attended from 17 dioceses, including York. There was also representation from the West Midlands Racial Justice Initiative, a collaboration between Birmingham, Coventry, Gloucester, Hereford, Lichfield and Worcester, as well as from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Friendly Churches.

Several common themes emerged. Many dioceses are now delivering unconscious bias training and raising awareness of racial justice by speaking at deanery synods. There is also significant work taking place to help people understand the theological and scriptural foundations of racial justice. A number of dioceses have created, or are developing, anti-racist toolkits for use in parishes and benefices.

A shared priority was how to embed this work in the everyday life of the Church. What that looks like varies from diocese to diocese, but there was agreement that episcopal support is one of the keys to progress. That is something we are fortunate to have in York through the support of The Rt Revd Barry Hill, Bishop of Whitby.

Shared challenges

Several challenges were also identified. One was the absence of good data. Without a clear baseline, it is difficult to measure progress or celebrate change.

Another was the reduction in funding available for this work in the next triennium. The budget has been reduced significantly, and many of those present were employed on fixed-term contracts funded through the Racial Justice Unit. There is real concern that if those posts end, we could lose the momentum of this work.

A third challenge was the continued pushback and resistance that racial justice work can still provoke.

The road ahead

Overall, it was a very encouraging and uplifting gathering. It provided valuable opportunities for networking, useful sharing of information, and mutual support. The Racial Justice Unit will continue to facilitate monthly online meetings throughout the year for those involved in racial justice work across the Church.

If you would welcome a conversation about racial justice in your church, please contact Gerald Fox, Racial Justice Education Adviser, at gerald.fox@yorkdiocese.org.

A New Worshipping Community at St Lazarus has opened its doors this week, with an unusual meeting space: a bouncy castle.

Inspired by the success of their recent Jumpy Church programme for 18s-30s, the bouncy castle was made an official fixture at a launch service on Sunday. It blended seamlessly with the church’s traditional Palm Sunday service, as church warden Harry Owen Peterson noted, “We’re seeking to become more like Christ, so we ‘borrowed’ some donkeys from the beach. Attendance went through the roof, though I think some may have got it confused with the village fete.”

Parts have been repurposed from other community groups who use the church’s hall; crash mats have been loaned from the U3A’s Jiu-Jitsu class, and pews have been salvaged from the wooden remnants of the Boys’ Brigade’s Bi-Monthly Bonfire Bash.

“We had some issues initially getting it off the ground,” explains the Revd Bob Salter, Associate Minister at St Lazarus. “Finding the correct Faculty category for the Fan Blower (needed to power the structure) on the new Building Management Portal was a struggle. Although this significantly delayed progress, the Church Buildings team at the diocese helped us to bounce back.”

Area Dean the Revd Jayne Spring is keen to encourage innovative new worshipping communities, noting “We’re really proud of what St Lazarus has done here, especially with their current financial situation. Churches are continually facing the pressures of rising inflation, and we are looking for cost-effective ways of growing churches of missionary disciples.”

For churches along the Saint Aelred’s Pilgrim Trail, however, this tradition has long been kept alive through the Gathering Lent Pilgrimage. This year, more than 80 walkers, riders, cyclists, families, and friends were welcomed by the Rt Revd Dr Andrew Rumsey, Bishop of Ramsbury, and the Revd Mel Burnside, at All Saints, Old Byland, before setting out on the trail to Rievaulx Abbey.

The pilgrimage called at St Mary, Scawton, where reflections and prayers were led by the Revd Ian Robinson, before continuing to Cold Kirby for lunch and then on to St Mary the Virgin, Rievaulx. There, pilgrims were joined by Bishop Barry Hill and Archdeacon Amanda Bloor.

At the abbey, Bishop Andrew and Revd Mel led a short service, accompanied by the Bilsdale Silver Band, before pilgrims departed with memories of a prayerful day amid the beauty of the North York Moors and its heritage churches, and a Christian message of hope and blessing. The day drew to a close with an evening concert by Bishop Andrew at All Saints, Helmsley.

As a testament to George Gyte and the Saint Aelred’s Pilgrim Trail team, the Gathering Lent Pilgrimage will feature on tonight’s BBC One Show at 7pm. You can watch again on BBC iPlayer.

If your church or community is organising a pilgrimage, do let us know. You can find further resources below:

• Pilgrim Places, Holy Lives
• Faith in the North – Pilgrim Places
• St Aelred’s Pilgrim Trail

Image courtesy of Valerie Mather

A dozen witnesses to the crucifixion of Jesus will be voiced by church members in a powerful re-telling of the events of Good Friday and Easter Day, in a group of North Yorkshire churches during Holy Week.

‘To the Cross’ is a sequence of dramatic poems by teacher, script writer, director, author and poet Michael Justin Davis; it was written for presentation in Salisbury Cathedral in 1983, and first came to Kirkbymoorside and nearby churches in the early 2000s.

Directed by the Revd Yvonne Yates, this year’s presentation takes place at 7.00pm on Tuesday 31st March at St Mary’s Church high in the North York Moors at Farndale; at 7.00pm on Wednesday 1st April at St Michael & All Angels’ Church in the Ryedale hill village of Great Edstone; and at 7.00pm on Good Friday, 3rd April, in the 13th Century Church of All Saints in Kirkbymoorside.

‘To the Cross’ is written in blank verse as a series of dramatic monologues by those witnessing or participating in the crucifixion and resurrection; Jesus doesn’t appear but the cast includes Peter, Mary Magdalene, Judas, Joseph of Aramathea and the soldier who nails Jesus to the cross.

“It’s disturbing to inhabit a character in raw shock as they describe a terrible experience,” says Martin Sheppard, who voices Simon of Cyrene. “The words don’t come easily but we’ve all been moved as we’ve learned to own the individuals whose names are so familiar from the Bible stories.

“Anyone attending will share that depth and perspective – this is living Christ’s story at its most extreme moments.”

The presentation will last a little over an hour and all are welcome.

• Tuesday 31st March, 7.00pm, St Mary’s Church, Farndale.
• Wednesday 1st April, 7.00pm, St Michael & All Angels’ Church, Great Edstone
• Good Friday, 3rd April, 7.00pm, All Saints’ Church, Kirkbymoorside

The Diocese of York and the Church Commissioners for England have confirmed that The Orthodox Community of St Constantine the Great have made an expression of interest in purchasing the closed church building of St Martin cum Gregory, Micklegate, York and is now seeking to raise the necessary funds.

The Grade I listed church, which dates back to the eleventh century, was closed for public worship in August 2003. It was later leased to The Stained Glass Trust on a nominal (peppercorn) rent to enable the opening of a national centre for stained glass, but the organisation’s tenancy will soon be coming to an end.

Last year, personnel from the Diocese and the Commissioners met with representatives from City of York Council, members of the local clergy, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of the closed church building.

The Diocese of York has agreed a temporary window of six months for The Orthodox Community of St Constantine the Great to raise the sums required so that they may make a formal offer on the building. Any future use of St Martin cum Gregory will be subject to a statutory public consultation in line with the provisions set out under the Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011.

Proceeds from the sale will enable the Church of England to invest in furthering its mission and ministry across the Diocese of York.

One Diocese, Shared Mission

Following the 2025 Free Will Offer Roadshows, this year’s events are designed to help treasurers, incumbents, churchwardens, and PCC members have clearer, more confident conversations about Free Will Offer in their parish.

As part of Living Christ’s Story, Free Will Offer helps us play our part in God’s mission of love in and for the world today. It supports a flourishing and sustainable Church by helping to fund ministry, safeguarding, training, parish support, and the shared services that enable churches to worship, welcome, and serve in every community.

These events will offer updated information, practical resources, and space for honest questions. They are aimed especially at treasurers, but other PCC members are warmly encouraged to attend, particularly if their treasurer cannot make it.

What to expect

While the final agenda is still being shaped, the events are likely to include:

• an update on Free Will Offer and the 2026 picture
• practical resources to support PCC conversations
• an explanation of what Free Will Offer helps fund
• input from diocesan colleagues on the support available to parishes
• time for questions, discussion, and honest conversation

Why attend?

These events are an opportunity to explore and discuss Free Will Offer in the wider context of mission.

They will help PCCs think about:

• What shared ministry would be hardest to replace locally?
• How do we sustain the Church’s presence in every community?
• How do we resource mission together as one diocesan family?

Some parishes can contribute more; others face greater challenges. Free Will Offer is one of the ways we share responsibility across the whole diocese, so the Church can continue to be present in rural villages, coastal towns, and urban communities alike.

Who should come?

These events are particularly for:

• Treasurers
• Incumbents and interested clergy
• Churchwardens
• PCC members

If your treasurer is unable to attend, another PCC member is very welcome to come in their place.

Booking

Please book your place online so that we can plan and arrange refreshments.

The team of chaplains is here to support clergy as they plan for retirement and adjust to a new season of life. They can help people think ahead and make informed choices about housing, finances, wellbeing, and ministry after retirement. They also support retired clergy who continue to serve, offering wisdom, experience and a faithful presence in parishes across the diocese.

The Revd Paul Peverell (Rev Pev), Clergy Retirement Officer, knows this from personal experience. Having retired from parish ministry in 2024, he now helps others prepare well for retirement and make the most of what comes next. Paul writes:

“When should you start thinking about retirement? My answer is simple – when you start work. Plans made early on can give you more choices later in life.

“If you own your own property, try to hold on to it if you can, as it will often increase in value over time. There can be risks, of course, but it can be a bigger risk simply to assume everything will somehow work out. The Church of England is very different today from when I was ordained in 1982.

“During my curacy, I was visited by a representative from Allied Dunbar, who had been given my name by a friend who had been ordained a few years before. So, in my late 20s, I started a savings policy that matured when I was 65. I added to this with another policy when I got married several years later. We did not do much more after that, because family life on a clergy stipend does not leave much spare, but those early decisions helped give us more options later on.

“I chose to retire at 67, although I could have carried on longer. I have seen so many people lose their health in the year after retirement that I wanted to make sure my wife and I had some good years together. While I am no longer a vicar, I am still active, assisting at Stokesley Church and elsewhere in the area. I now have no evening meetings, have stayed clear of committees, and can say no.

“Following advice at a pre-retirement course in 2019, we started looking in good time for somewhere to live. That was especially important for us, as our son still lives with us and we needed somewhere wheelchair-friendly. We moved in June 2023 to a bungalow in Nunthorpe, where we have lovely neighbours and a warm, welcoming community. I only wear a collar now when I am taking services.

“I worked from there until I retired in November 2024, after 31 years at Great Ayton, where we had been since February 1993. That made leaving less hard, because when clergy retire they often leave their home, their job and their community all on the same day. That can be brutal. By the time I retired, I had already begun to build a new life and let go of many of the roles and responsibilities that come simply from living on site. You do not always realise how much you are carrying until you put it down. Over the last year, I have felt my energy returning.

“Active retired clergy are vital to the continuing mission of the Church and account for more than 30 per cent of services taken. As benefices grow, stipendiary clergy cannot be everywhere between 9.00am and 11.00am on a Sunday morning. The support retired clergy offer can be a real blessing, both to congregations and to those who continue to serve in this new season. They also bring many other gifts, skills and years of experience.

“In the Diocese of York, clergy can now apply for Permission to Officiate (PTO) from the first day of retirement. That means those who feel called to continue serving can do so without a gap.

“If you have questions or concerns about retirement, please do get in touch with the team. Alongside me, there are three archdeaconry chaplains supporting this work – Jan Hardy in Cleveland, Danny Walker in the East Riding, and Chris Wingfield in York. We are all new in post and learning fast, but we are here to help.”

Who is eligible?

From 1 April 2026, updated eligibility criteria will apply. Eligible buildings are churches and church halls where activities take place in a building owned by the PCC. Churches must also have completed the most recent Energy Footprint Tool as part of Parish Returns by 30 June 2026. New for 2026, churches must also be registered with A Rocha’s Eco Church scheme.

What can the grant be used for?

Grants can support works that help parishes move towards net zero, including insulation, lower-carbon lighting and heating, and addressing damp ingress. In some circumstances, temporary heating solutions may also be eligible. Full details will be available in the eligibility guide on our website.

How do I apply?

Please complete the application form on the Diocese of York website and send it to Keith Halliday at keith.halliday@yorkdiocese.org.

Will I need permission for the works?

The usual faculty jurisdiction rules apply, so a List B or faculty application may be needed. Items covered by List A or List B can be checked in the published guidance. Anything not listed will require a faculty.

Who can I contact for further information?

For Energy Footprint Tool returns or A Rocha registration, please contact Tim O’Brien or Jess Galley.

For grant application queries, please contact Keith Halliday.

For faculty permission queries, please contact Catherine Copp or Jess Galley.

The website will be updated with the new details, eligibility guide, and application form on Tuesday 31 March.

Image: © Prathan Chorruangsak

Andy’s next step will begin with an unusual interim arrangement as he is licensed as Assistant Curate to Howden Deanery. He will spend three months working with Permission to Officiate, primarily at St John’s, Goole, in the Diocese of Sheffield. At the beginning of Advent, he will then become Rector of Howdenshire Benefice.

Over the past two years, Bishop Eleanor and Andy have been discerning and establishing a partnership between St John’s, Goole, the Diocese of Sheffield, the Diocese of York, and Howdenshire Benefice. This partnership will aim to share the recent growth in mission and church vitality at St John’s with the Howdenshire churches and sit alongside new SMMIB-funded posts supported by the Diocese of Sheffield.

Following the retirement of the Revd James Little, Rector of Howden Minster and the surrounding parishes, it was expected that someone already known to St John’s and the Diocese of Sheffield would be appointed. But as circumstances changed, Andy sensed a clear and personal call from God to this new ministry and was later interviewed and appointed to the post.

Reflecting on his time as Archdeacon of the East Riding, Andy said: “It has been a great joy and privilege to serve as archdeacon. I have loved the variety of the churches and people across the archdeaconry, and the opportunity to serve the wider diocese. The role of archdeacon is both demanding and stimulating, and I hope, in some small way, I have supported and enabled our churches as they live Christ’s Story.

“This opportunity came unexpectedly, and I am excited about what God might do across Howdenshire. I feel very blessed to have this fresh call, and partnering with St John’s and the Diocese of Sheffield brings an extra dimension full of possibilities.”

The Rt Revd Dr Eleanor Sanderson, Bishop of Hull, said: “Our God is a God who can surprise us, which has certainly been the case in this call! Whilst I know how deeply appreciated Andy is as the Archdeacon of the East Riding, I really do celebrate his call from God to return to the grassroots of our church with all the passion and dedication I know he will give. We trust God for all that lies ahead, and I give thanks to God for Andy’s witness to us all; to never stop stepping out into fresh missional adventures with Jesus.”

The Most Revd Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, said: “I am thankful to Archdeacon Andy’s remarkable service to the East Riding in the Diocese of York. His leadership has nurtured partnerships and encouraged many to live more fully into Christ’s story.  May this next adventure as Rector of Howden Minster and the Howdenshire churches be marked by the same joy, vision, and grace that Andy has so freely shared among us.  We rejoice he is continuing to serve within the Diocese of York and with others, I pray he will know God’s richest blessing in all that lies ahead.”

There will be an opportunity to say farewell to Andy at a Service of Farewell and Thanksgiving at Beverley Minster on 30 June at 7.30pm. Booking details will follow soon. All are welcome.

Presidential Address

Archbishop Stephen Cottrell welcomed our Auction Mart Chaplains and young observers to Synod, as well as the Revd Tom Mumford, who joins the diocese as Chaplain to support the Bishop of Selby.

Archbishop Stephen’s presidential address focused on the importance of reconnecting with the land, supporting farmers, buying sustainably and fairly, and recognising environmental stewardship as part of Christian discipleship. He also advocated for a “generosity of will and wallet” to resolve the diocese’s financial challenges and build a sustainable future for ministry. Reflecting on conflict in the Middle East, he urged prayer, compassion and a renewed commitment to Christ’s peace, justice and mercy.

General Synod Report

Members received a report on the February meeting of General Synod from Dr Neill Burgess and Archdeacon Liz Hassall.

This included updates on governance and legal matters, clergy conduct, safeguarding, Living in Love and Faith (LLF), mental health, poverty, working-class vocation and ministry, and the Church’s response to social care.

Synod also heard about discussions on environmental responsibility, including sustainable church flowers, and wider questions of funding, accountability, and inclusion across the life of the Church.

Living Christ’s Story

Synod received an update on the Living Christ’s Story strategy and the work currently under way to support the diocese’s future mission and ministry.

This includes preparation for a Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment Board (SMMIB) bid, alongside developing a new leadership programme for licensed clergy and lay ministers, children and youth ministry, church planting, revitalisation, practical support for parishes, and the appointment of an Associate Archdeacon for Hull.

Members heard about the importance of discernment, learning from existing projects, and listening carefully to what churches need so that resources are effective and used wisely.

Question time

The Revd Kath McBride (Derwent) asked how the diocese is supporting rural mission and ministry within Living Christ’s Story. In response, Synod heard that rural parishes make up a large proportion of diocesan life and are being included in current support, consultation and planning, including work to shape the next national funding bid.

The Revd Canon Dr Dominic Black (Hull) asked whether the full Multiply evaluation report would be shared with Synod. The response confirmed that the report is due to be published through the Church Support Hub, with a summary to follow on the diocesan website, and that the full report will then be available to those who would like to read it.

The Revd Andy Hagon (York) asked when progress on Living Christ’s Story will be evaluated and shared more widely with parishes. Synod was told that work is under way to review delivery against the original objectives, and that a fuller update is expected to come back to Diocesan Synod in November.

Rural Affairs Motion

Margaret Price, Chair of the York Diocese Rural Life and Faith Group and Lay Dean of Easingwold Deanery, and The Revd Canon Dianne Gamble, in her role as Chaplain to Thirsk Auction Mart, presented the rural motion by Easingwold Deanery.

Synod heard about the “perfect storm” of pressures facing farmers and rural communities across the diocese, including economic uncertainty, environmental change, isolation and growing concerns around mental health. Members were reminded of the vital part farming plays in food production, care of the land, and sustaining rural life, and heard about the importance of chaplaincy and pastoral support in these communities.

The motion was carried to affirm farming as a vocation, commit to praying for farmers and rural communities, and support the development of guidance to help churches engage more confidently and practically with rural life.

Diocesan Conference Update

Bishop Barry Hill reminded members of the diocesan conference, taking place this year at the University of York (23rd to 25th July). The three-day event will feature speakers including Archbishop Michael Curry and Professor Lisa Oakley, and more than 400 clergy, licensed lay ministers, and members of our two religious communities will be in attendance.

Please contact emily.bird@yorkdiocese.org if you have not yet received an invitation.

APCMs and Deanery Synod Elections

Canon Peter Warry noted that the deadline for APCM meetings is 31st May, with data returns to the office due by 30th June for upcoming elections. Synod was reminded of the importance of completing parish and deanery processes in good time.

Members were encouraged to fill vacancies wherever possible and to think carefully about who might serve at deanery, diocesan and General Synod level. The importance of broadening representation, including younger and more diverse voices, was also highlighted.

Safeguarding Report

Synod received the safeguarding report for noting, as part of its regular oversight of safer practice and accountability across the diocese.

Property Sub-Committee Report

Archdeacon Amanda Bloor shared the Property Sub-Committee report and heard about the significant workload being carried by a small diocesan team, alongside staffing changes and continuing vacancies.

Members were updated on housing, lettings, maintenance and glebe income, and heard that work is continuing to improve the efficiency of clergy housing, including through support for net zero carbon goals.

Good News Item: Generous Giving

Phil McBride shared stories of generosity in action across the diocese, inviting members to reflect on Matthew 18:3 and to receive them with the openness and humility of a child. These included examples of churches growing in confidence and giving, people offering their time and skills to strengthen church life, and one church supporting another in a time of need. Together, the stories showed how generosity can nurture stronger, more hopeful and more sustainable church communities.

Next meeting: Saturday 20 June 2026 | Online

Synod Notes

PDF / 6 MB

Printable version of Diocesan Synod notes for March 2026.

My grandma had an expression that she used when she considered someone to be sensible, reliable, and with an earthy wisdom that comes from, rather than the study of books, experience of life. She said of such a person: ‘He knows his spuds’; or was it, ‘She knows her onions.’

Sadly, in Britain today, it’s getting harder and harder to find anyone who knows their spuds or knows their onions. A brief internet search tells you that an alarming number of children growing up in the UK today can’t recognise basic vegetables such as carrots or cauliflowers, and do not know that chips are made out of potatoes and that bacon comes from pigs.

The newspapers, of course, usually report this with gleeful delight, citing it as evidence that we’re all a bit thick nowadays, that schools and families aren’t what they used to be, and that we all eat too much fast food. Some of this is probably correct. We certainly eat too much junk. But the reason a child cannot recognise a carrot is, I think, deeper still. It is essentially a spiritual issue.

Let me explain what I mean.

By the word ‘spiritual’, I do not mean some private, ethereal, inner realm of consciousness which is separate from things earthly and physical, though I’m well aware that this is precisely what most people mean when they use that word.

Christianity is a very earthy and physical religion. We don’t observe divisions between things physical, mental, or spiritual. We see human beings, for that matter, the whole of creation as a totality, physical and spiritual, woven together.

So, when we use the word ‘spiritual’, we are speaking about the whole of life viewed from the perspective of God and therefore to be understood and lived out in the way that God intends. This is not only right and true, it is the only way of happiness, sustainability, and prosperity.

It is, therefore, not far-fetched to say that all our problems – and I will come on to some of the problems assailing our world and our church in a moment – begin when we break the connections between ourselves, our neighbour and our environment, that is, the earth itself.

What’s this got to do with children being unable to recognise vegetables?

Well, everything actually. It is a sign that life has become disjointed, that we have allowed a separation to get so wide that we’ve even drifted from that which is most basic: the food we eat, the ground we till, the seed we sow.

If you don’t know what a carrot looks like, how will you possibly know what a plough is for? Or how very important soil is? And how will you ever really love the earth or care about the well-being of your neighbour in another land? This is the bind we’re in. Children grow up not knowing where their food comes from, yet at the same time, we demand an ever-ready supply of any meat and veg we fancy, regardless of the season or of the environmental damage that is done by flying strawberries round the world so that we can eat them on Christmas Day. Or sweeping away vast tracts of rainforest so that cattle can graze and we can eat cheap burgers.

Let me tell you a story – sadly, a true one – that illustrates this miserable predicament perfectly.

A few years ago, well, quite a few years ago, when I was the Bishop of Reading, I was shopping in Waitrose in Wallingford on the Thames. It’s a pretty little market town on the Thames. It was late August, possibly early September, and in this Waitrose, they were selling punnets of blackberries – blackberries, not blueberries, not bilberries, not mulberries – blackberries. They were selling them at £5.50 a throw.

And people were buying them. They were billed as a luxury seasonal item. But as I queued at the till at the Waitrose in Wallingford-on-Thames, from the actual window of the store, as I queued at the checkout, I could see blackberries growing in the alley that led down from the shop to the river.

You could, if you wished, pass them as you returned to your car, brandishing your £5.50 luxury seasonal item and pick a whole bucket load for free. But you didn’t.

It is, I think, the same as the person who returns from work, puts their ready meal chicken tikka masala in the microwave for three minutes and then sits down to watch MasterChef for an hour.

We have forgotten who we are. We have forgotten where we come from. We think everything will be fine, but it won’t because we don’t know our onions.

This is why today’s debate on rural affairs and farming in the Diocese of York is so important. For all of us!

Thank you, Easingwold Deanery, for bringing this motion to us.

Food is a spiritual issue. Farming is hard work, but it is also a spiritual activity. It is about inhabiting the world in a way that is sustainable, beautiful, respectful of the environment and fruitful not just for us, but for generations to come.

I hope as a result of today’s debate and as we raise awareness on these issues, those of us who eat and shop – i.e. everyone! – will make a renewed effort to support our farmers and, for instance, to buy local food wherever possible.

Moreover, some children won’t recognise carrots because of food inequalities – food inequalities that we know very well in some of the deprived urban parts of this diocese, which means fresh vegetables are, for them, so very scarce. That’s sadly why we still need our food banks and all the other ways we work with others to support those communities in our diocese.

And when we are buying tea and coffee, bananas or other foods that do not grow here, let us make sure we buy fairly traded products so that we know that farming communities in other, often impoverished, parts of the world – suffering because of the climate change we have largely been responsible for making – are supported and enabled to flourish fairly.

At the same time, I hope we can find ways of educating people – especially children – about the joy of the food on their plate and where it comes from; how to cook, and how to notice and enjoy the rhythm of the season. It’s rhubarb season in Yorkshire right now. What could be more fantastic than a big bowl of Yorkshire rhubarb for breakfast? In this way, we can look forward to Brussels sprouts at Christmas and free supplies of blackberries in September and not expect to have them every day.

In this, we will all need patience, courage, perseverance. The human race has drifted from its roots. It is therefore unsurprising that we are bearing little fruit and that the world around us is confused and conflicted.

Which leads me to reflect on another important issue for our life together, not our connection with the land and with our neighbours across the world, but our connections with each other as that part of the body of Christ which is the Diocese of York.

Because we too are a beautiful, fragile and complex ecosystem. We are parish and deanery, church plant and chaplaincy, ordained and lay, rural and urban, coastal and suburban, high church and low church, and middle of the church, and swinging from the chandeliers charismatic church, conservative and progressive, richly resourced and shockingly under-resourced, able and disabled, replete with opportunity and left behind. Because we are the people of God, that new humanity made by Christ’s shedding of his blood on the cross, we are a people whose identity, purpose, and belonging are found in Christ, not in the other markers of identity that so often lead to silos and division. The flourishing of every one of us and the flourishing of all our parishes, chaplaincies, and communities of faith across the diversity of the diocese we serve depends upon our honouring and recognising the face of Christ in each other and working hard to accommodate each other while remaining true to the gospel we have received. But since that gospel is about barriers of separation broken down, going the second mile of love, and because, again and again in the gospels, we see the lengths to which Jesus goes to count people in, then we must surely do the same. Furthermore, to live Christ’s story is to be this interdependent, interconnected body of Christ. This is what we are baptised into and which we will celebrate again in the Paschal mystery in a few weeks’ time. It is what we celebrate and renew each time we make Eucharist together – for though we are many, we are one body because we all share in one bread.

This also carries responsibilities: theological and organisational responsibilities to ensure every bit of the Church is valued and included. It also has challenging and particular responsibilities around how we behave to one another and speak of one another and of what we model to a more and more divided and polarised world.

But it’s also going to require huge generosity. A generosity of will, one towards another, and let’s cut to the chase, a generosity of wallet. A generosity of will and wallet, which reflects God’s generosity to each of us in Christ. Let me put it – I’ve been in Yorkshire a while now, so as you know, I have been given the (it slipped off the list of the fruits of the spirit) gift of bluntness. Let me be blunt.

Most of the financial challenges we face as a diocese could be solved overnight. Overnight, if even a proportion of us gave a bit more generously. I’m so grateful for those who work in our finance team, our parish giving advisors, and of course, my colleagues in the leadership team, for all they do to bring in with you the Free Will Offer, which pays for our ministry.

Sisters and brothers, we must dare to be more ambitious, not just balancing the books, which right now itself feels out of reach. But imagine if everyone in our churches felt called to give just a bit more generously, there is so much more we could be doing to live and share the story of Jesus Christ with others, which, by the way, is our core business. And we then would be writing the next chapter in the long story of God’s love for this place, these places, these communities, building a sustainable future. Even if everyone in the diocese gave the equivalent of the cost of one cup of coffee a week, most of our financial problems would be solved.

And I do see this flourishing ecosystem in the countryside as well. I see, especially at this time of the year, even driving in my strange journey all around York to get here this morning, I love seeing at this time of the year the hedgerows just beginning. There’s like a murmur, isn’t it? There’s like a murmur of life on the hedgerows at the moment as you drive along. Small seeds planted in the ground just beginning to emerge. We follow a God whose love for us is so immeasurable, so profound, that it reached even into death itself. And because it is the love of God, rose up with a hope and an ambition whose surfaces we have barely touched, whose depths we can barely imagine.

Oh, Diocese of York, next year, 2027, we will celebrate Paulinus baptising King Edwin 1400 years ago, which was the beginnings of an ordered church life, the building of a little wooden church in York, and then remember and celebrate all the other baptisms that Paulinus administered in the rivers that cross our county, and we will commit ourselves again to being a church which gives generously, which lives sustainably, which delights in God given diversity, and which shares the gospel of Jesus Christ and grows.

Finally, as the Middle East finds itself plunged again into a war of ill-defined objectives, strutting vanity, appalling misery and intense suffering, we, the followers of Jesus Christ, remember our vocation to be a beacon of light, a tiny handful of yeast of hope in the sufferings of the world. We cry out again and pray for peace, for humanitarian aid. For the observation of international law, so easily ignored and even ridiculed by those who cannot see beyond their own swaggering ambition for power and have even plundered the Christian faith to justify their actions.

Writing to his diocese last week, my friend and brother bishop, Archbishop Hosam, the Anglican Bishop in Jerusalem, wrote this, “I call upon the global church to join us in urgent, unceasing prayer. We implore God to protect the innocent – the mothers, the children, and the elderly – who are caught in the crossfire of this ‘Operation Epic Fury’ and the subsequent ‘crushing responses.’ We pray specifically for ‘sound mind’ for the leaders of the United States, Israel and Iran, that they might recognise the futility of this bloodshed and turn back from the precipice of a global catastrophe… (and) we must offer each other the sanctuary of Christian love… let our message be the unchanging promise of Christ’s peace.”

To do this, and to counter the hateful narratives that divide our world, we need a strong Church. But by ‘strong Church’ I mean strong in the faith of Jesus Christ, showing again the power of undefended, sacrificial love, humble service, and steadfast obedience to the one who is the Prince of Peace.

The patience, forbearance, ingenuity and wisdom of the countryside and of farming can help us here – help our whole culture connect with the earth of which we are made and of whom God calls us to be stewards.

As a nation, this means moving towards a position where we are better able to supply the food we need. Therefore, we need government policies that support farming and support sustainable and affordable food production. Equally, we need to be aware of the global and political issues that affect our environment and communities in other parts of the world who suffer because of our greed and complacency. We need to remember the poor.

In Passiontide, we remember that on the cross, Jesus died for our sins. We also acknowledge that it was our sins that put him there. So, too, we must remember that it is our corporate and collective sinfulness that is destroying the earth and which contributes to, and sometimes creates, the debilitating and destructive conflicts that engulf our world. What we need, dear friends, is not an epic fury, but the epic peace, the epic equity, the epic forgiveness that we find in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Our God is a God of unity and peace; of grace and truth; of mercy and justice; a God of town and country, earth and heaven, mind and spirit, the UK and Europe and all the world; and when we catch hold of the all-encompassing generosity and inclusivity of the Spirit of God then we will work well together to build a sustainable, prosperous and peaceful future. As my grandma used to say, we will know our onions. Amen.

A place of welcome in the early months of parenthood

Initiated as part of the Diocese of York’s Multiply project, which helps develop new worshipping communities among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, Nurture supports new and expectant mums from the end of pregnancy until their babies are around a year old.

Tracy said: “We started thinking about this group about four years ago because, as a midwife in Thirsk, I noticed we hadn’t got the baby groups that were for newborn babies, the health visitor role had changed, and we just needed something for the mums to make friends, so coffee, chat, and to bring their babies and get to know each other.”

Churches working together to serve local families

The group was started by St Mary’s Church and is run in partnership with other churches in the market town. This shared approach helps keep Nurture free for all families in need.

The Revd Mary Rolls, Rector of Thirsk Parishes and Area Dean for Mowbray, said: “The idea for Nurture we feel was very much divinely inspired. We already had a pattern from a different Multiply new worshipping community of sharing the venue and hosting, and so it was an easy ask to invite our Methodist, Free Church and neighbouring parish, St Oswald’s, to host with us and share this ministry.”

Friendship, encouragement, and faith

Families stay in touch through Facebook and WhatsApp, where mums share questions, encouragement and practical help.

Mary said: “It acts as quite a community space as mums post concerns or queries into the hive mind, and share stuff that babies have grown out of or when Aldi or Lidl have baby offers. It also gives us a quick means of inviting to Christingle, Mothering Sunday services, Easter trails and anything that’s going on in the churches.”

The relationships formed through Nurture have continued beyond the group itself, with families connecting with wider church life and activities.

Mary said, “The connection with the churches is great. One of the churches started a Thursday morning tots group, recognising that this was an area and time they could serve. We have baptised lots of the babies, confirmed one of the mums, and married two sets of parents. It is such a win for us in creating a really natural relationship that continues as the children grow.”

As we mark Mothering Sunday, Nurture shows how Living Christ’s Story takes shape through practical, compassionate care for new mums and families. In giving mums “some more adult company” and a chance “to have a chat with someone and not just sit in the same four walls”, churches in Thirsk are building trusted relationships and offering a warm welcome at an important but vulnerable time in families’ lives.

On Monday 9 March, the Parish Support Team hosted a webinar with the Revd Canon Dr Tim Bull from the Diocese of St Albans to help churches respond to the growing use of artificial intelligence, or AI.

Welcoming clergy, church officers, PCC members, children and youth workers, and others in local leadership, the event explored the theology of AI and offered practical guidance on using it in ways that are responsible and in keeping with Christ’s mission in the world today.

Alongside Tim, Deputy Diocesan Secretary and Director of Operations Kate Cameron introduced our new AI policy guidance for PCCs and shared some of the support on AI being developed for parishes. The guidance aims to help PCCs make informed decisions, manage risk and put appropriate safeguards in place.

As we seek to live and share Christ’s story, new technology calls for careful discernment. Used well, AI may support many aspects of ministry and administration. Used poorly, it can create confusion, reduce trust, or cause real harm. These new resources are intended to help churches approach the challenge with confidence and care.

You can watch the webinar recording and access the resources below.