United in Christ

19 Jan 2023 • From Bishop Richard Jackson

In this week's video, Bishop Richard explores the significance of Jesus inviting us to pray, "Our Father".  When we do so, 'we're committing ourselves to a particular and personal view of God, the God revealed to us in the person of Jesus.  We also recognise that we're part of a wider family.  Disagreements in families put them under strain, but they don't stop them being a family.'

Bishop Richard also explains some of the thinking behind the House of Bishops' statement this week on the 'Living in Love and Faith' conversations around identity, sexuality and marriage that have been going on over the last six years.  General Synod will debate the bishops' proposals and statements next month.  The bishops apologise unreservedly for the 'rejection, exclusion and hostility' that LGBTQI+ people have experienced in churches, and they encourage congregations to 'welcome same sex couples unreservedly and joyfully.'  The bishops' intent is to 'foster the greatest unity in our diverse family.'

You can find a short written statement from Bishop Richard on the diocesan website.

For transcripts, visit the Bishop of Hereford's Message section of the diocesan website.