As we walk through this week and recall the events which took place in Jerusalem that first Holy Week, it is poignant to remember that this year there are wartime restrictions in place in that land.
Month: March 2026
Sharing faith this Lent
The most important thing is to be open and to be sharing the stories of Jesus at work in our lives with the people around us.
Connect Blog: Go and make Disciples
Last month’s blog on supporting families through times of change got Senior Connector, Barrie Voyce, thinking about moving deeper in our journeys as disciples. Many of you will know that
On our way to net zero carbon
The concept of net zero carbon can sometimes seem complicated, hard to reach, and a little overwhelming. However many worshipping communities in the Diocese of Gloucester are already well on
Synod backs sustainable church flowers
A motion encouraging the use of sustainable church flowers has been passed by General Synod.
St Peter’s Eco Church Silver
St Peter’s Church in Stratton, Cirencester has achieved the Silver Eco Church award, recognising the church’s growing commitment to caring for creation
Faith stories: Barnaby’s transformation
“I no longer feel alone. My heart’s been completely transformed. I’ve got so much joy in what I do now.”
Question time with Bishop Rachel and Baroness Boycott
As part of Women’s History Month, Bishop Rachel took part in a question and answer session with Baroness Boycott about the role of women in government.
Open The Gospel – 5 April – Easter Day, Matthew 28.1-10
5 April – Easter Day, Matthew 28.1-10 After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2And
Parish Accessibility Fund
The Church of England ‘Parish Accessibility Fund’ offered through the Disability Project aims to help parishes to enhance accessibility and inclusion for those who are Deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent. https://www.churchofengland.org/resources/barrier-free-belonging/parish-accessibility-fund
‘Courage to care’ safeguarding day
A healthy church community is a space where people feel safe, valued, and comfortable exploring faith together. It’s deeply embedded in our calling as Christians to love and care for
Children to bury time capsule at St Lawrence
Children at St Lawrence Church, Lechlade have gathered materials to fill a time capsule to bury under the new floor as part of Project Inspire restoration and reordering scheme. The
General Synod February 2026 – Representatives’ Report for Deaneries
This report summarises the key discussions, decisions, and outcomes from the February 2026 sessions of the General Synod, highlighting matters of interest arising from representatives’ contributions. Introduction “This was another
Teenager leads digital ministry at ENC
A 17-year-old member of the worshipping community at Emmanuel Network Church (ENC) is helping to reshape the church’s worship and communications. Zach Callaghan has been volunteering his creative media skills
Message from Bishop Robert, 24 March 2026
Each year I try to spend most of Holy Week with one of our benefices, sharing the journey we take from Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, through to the Last Supper and betrayal on Maundy Thursday, standing by the cross on Good Friday, and then to the glimmering hope and joy of Easter morning with its promise of new life for all in the resurrection.
Understanding VAT Zero-Rating for Church Works
The Church of England has provided the following guidance following the closure of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS): ‘Most repairs, maintenance, and conservation work to churches are
Installation of Archbishop Sarah Mullally
More than two thousand people from across the country and around the world will attend the Installation of Archbishop Sarah Mullally as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury in Canterbury Cathedral
Palestine/Israel:British-Irish Parliamentary cooperation – calls for Government action
Bishop Rachel has signed the following letter, which sets out urgent concerns and specific requests to the Government regarding the deteriorating situation in Palestine and the need for immediate international
Appointment of the new Archdeacon of Gloucester
Bishop Rachel has today announced the appointment of the new Archdeacon of Gloucester, the Revd John Whittaker.
Open The Gospel – 29 March – Palm Sunday, Matthew 21.1-11
29 March – Palm Sunday, Matthew 21.1-11 When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go
Justice, mercy and hope
Exploring how churches and Christian-based organisations might more deeply support people in prison and those returning to their communities.
Eco Church: Worship and Teaching
Continuing our reflection on the Eco Church categories as we work towards an Eco Office Silver award, this week we focus on Worship and Teaching. The Worship and Teaching category
Community Climate Change Fund available
Gloucestershire County Council’s Community Climate Change Fund is offering £100,000 in grant funding to communities across Gloucestershire to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle the impact of climate change. Eligible
The Rural Missioner’s Guild launches
The Arthur Rank Centre is delighted to announce the launch of the Rural Missioner’s Guild, a new ecumenical fellowship created to support, connect and encourage those involved in rural mission
