News Stories
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8 June 2022
in GeneralQuiet space in churchyard dedicated for Queen’s Jubilee
An ambitious project to clear an overgrown part of an Isle of Wight churchyard has inspired the creation of a quiet garden and a community mosaic. The project has taken place at St Mary’s Church, Brighstone, and the Olive Garden and Tree of Life mosaic will be dedicated as part of the celebrations of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Read more
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6 June 2022
in GeneralChurches celebrate Jubilee with worship, parties and fun days
Churches around our diocese marked the Queen's Platinum Jubilee with celebrations of all kinds. There were services of thanksgiving, flower festivals, fun days, fairs and street parties - all to mark the historic achievement by HM the Queen who has been our monarch since 1952. Read more
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1 June 2022
Southsea man honoured by the Queen for feeding the hungry
The man who leads a group that feeds vulnerable people every Friday has been honoured by HM the Queen. Jim Campbell leads Friday Fridge, the weekly outreach in which those who are homeless, have mental health needs, are isolated or otherwise vulnerable, are welcomed into the church each week for a cafe-style get-together. During the pandemic, the team fed those who came to the church doors every Friday too. Read more
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30 May 2022
in GeneralJubilee concert is a riot of creativity
Refugees and asylum seekers were among the performers at a concert to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in St Luke’s Church, Southsea. Many of them were from the Refugee Hub, run by Portsmouth City of Sanctuary in the church every Monday morning. The concert included music, poetry, dancing and drumming, in a riot of colour and creativity. Read more
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20 May 2022
in GeneralChurches prepare to mark Queen’s historic achievement
Our churches are throwing parties, hosting services and organising special events to mark 70 years since HM the Queen became our sovereign. The events are taking place before, during and after the four-day Bank Holiday weekend. Read more
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18 May 2022
in EnvironmentFocus on environment prompts Eco Church award
Portsmouth churchgoers are celebrating after being given an Eco Church award, to mark their commitment to the environment. St Mary's Church, Fratton, has put green issues at the forefront of their agenda, installing bike racks, buying an eCargo bike, and hosting events with an environmental theme. Read more
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2 May 2022
First Anna Chaplain licensed on the mainland
The first of a network of Anna Chaplains to minister to older people has been commissioned on the mainland. Dr Coleen Jackson, who was already a Reader, was licensed as an Anna Chaplain by Bishop Jonathan, who has already announced his desire for an Anna Chaplain to serve in every parish, benefice or cluster of our diocese. Former Meridian TV presenter Debbie Thrower, who created Anna Chaplaincy in Alton, preached during the service at St Michael's Church, Chalton. Read more
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28 April 2022
in GeneralFirst host to be linked with Ukrainian refugees
More than 70 people across our diocese have offered to host Ukrainian refugees fleeing the conflict that has seen homes and livelihoods destroyed. The first of our hosts to be linked with a Ukrainian family is Judy Walker. She talks about her motivation for offering rooms within her house to those who are desperate for safety. Read more
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21 April 2022
Vicar to climb mountain to fundraise for hospice
Isle of Wight vicar Amanda Collinson plans to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak – to help raise money for her local hospice. Her inspiration to do so comes from the care the hospice has given to friends, as well as her Christian faith. Read more
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21 April 2022
in GeneralChurch hosts refugee hub helping those in need
Portsmouth City of Sanctuary runs a weekly Refugee Hub at St Luke’s Church, Southsea, helping those who have come to the UK, fleeing conflict and persecution. Each Monday morning, they help with support and advice in the church hall. Read more