In November 1926, most of Lancashire was lifted out of the Diocese of Manchester under the wise leadership of William Temple and became a brand new Diocese. Its cathedral was placed in Blackburn because Temple wanted a strong presence right in the very heart of industrial East Lancashire, surrounded with its mill chimneys and mine wheels. Percy Herbert became our first bishop and so the journey began. You have been given a prayer card – please add it to your prayers this year.
Application forms for children and adults are on the link attached. Please note parental consent is required for children (form attached). Preparations for young people will begin online in March 2026. Reverend Lesley will contact all applicants on receipt of completed forms. Forms must be received by Sunday 22nd February 2026 Please note that children / adults can be both baptised and confirmed in this service A word about Baptism In our Gospel readings this Sunday, we will hear of Jesus being baptised and he was thought to have been around the age of 30 years – an adult! There are many adults who are not baptised – if you are one, please don’t think because you were not baptised or christened as a baby, that you have missed out. If you are not baptised, please speak to Reverend Lesley. May each one of us start this year knowing the love of Jesus in our lives. Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives and is the first step in response to God’s love. It is traditionally done with babies and children, but age is no barrier – many adults nowadays wish to be baptised. The service paints many vivid pictures of what happens on the Christian way. There is the signing of the cross on the forehead, that invisible badge of faith worn in the Christian journey; there is the ‘drowning’ in the water where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life; and there is the lighted candle symbolising the light of Christ conquering the darkness of evil. Everyone who is baptised walks in that light for the rest of their lives.
· 11am St Anne’s Fence We celebrate the arrival of the Wise Men, that have featured in all our Christmas Nativity stories. We also begin our year of Centenary Celebrations of Blackburn Diocese. Its going to be a great 2026, with something for everyone to be part of. Full details will appear in your Newsletters.
Here is a free booklet that looks at everyday things of the Christmas season (pudding, chocolates, chutney, pine needles, Christmas jumpers…..) and where we find joy Booklets are available on Christmas Eve at St John’s Midnight Communion and on Christmas Day in both churches, come and receive your free booklet.
