The General Synod has backed the parish as key to the spread of the Christian faith, in a debate where the local church was described as ‘at the very heart’ of God’s mission.

Church of England theme encourages all to ‘join the song’ this Christmas with a brand-new carol by Bob Chilcott

Number of consecrated churches closed in the last decade was lowest level for half a century.

Carol premiere forms part of the Church of England’s focus for Advent and Christmas 2023 ‘Follow the Star: Join the Song.’

Follow The Star Advent calendar invites people to put the birth of Jesus at the heart of their Christmas preparations.

Choirs up and down the country will sing the new carol, released today across streaming platforms

A new version of the well-known carol The First Nowell, written by the composer Bob Chilcott, will be sung in churches and cathedrals across the country.

Viewers are invited to rediscover the wonders of faith, hope and boundless love in Christ in a special online ecumenical carol service led in British Sign Language (BSL), to be broadcast this Sunday. 

Bishop of London Sarah Mullally addresses the General Synod with a summary speech on Living in Love and Faith.

Downing Street announces the next Bishop of Thetford.