Hereford DiocesanPrayer Diary

January, February, March2018

Please note you can also viewthe Prayer Diary on our website under the section

Resources & Information

www.hereford.anglican.org/PrayerDiary

A single sheet digest with just the Sunday biddingsis also available as a resource

for intercession leaders etc

The Prayer Diary January to March, 2018

The main part of this Prayer Diary covers the quarter from Sunday 31st December to Saturday 31st March, week by week. The following entries are used:

The Wider View Biddings relating in the main to our World Church links;

Anglican Taken from the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, so that we are praying with the Anglican Church round the world;

Hereford Deaneries, parishes and diocesan organisations and officers;

Today Meetings, events and prayer prompts.

Porvoo This pairs the Lutheran churches of the Nordic and Baltic areas, and the Anglican churches of the British Isles and of Spain and Portugal,

which have signed the Porvoo Declaration recognising each others’ ministries. Also included is the Latvian Church, which has not yet taken a decision on signing the Declaration, and the Church of Denmark, which has not signed but wishes to develop links with the churches which have signed.

Please send entries for the next edition which covers the quarter April to June 2018 to: wkrowell@btinternet.com - clearly marked in the subject area as Prayer Diary. The more I know about events and activities, the more accurate and focused our prayer biddings can be. Please also let me know if you spot any mistakes or omissions - they do happen, alas, but I hope to ensure this Diary is as accurate as possible.

You may find the following explanation of the initials used helpful:

LMC – Ludlow Mascall Centre (formerly BMC)CMD – Continuing Ministerial Development (in-service training for licensed ministers)LDO – Lay Development Officer IMD – Initial Ministerial Development DAC – Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of ChurchesDDO – Diocesan Director of OrdinandsPAT – Post Admission Training for ReadersMAP – Mission Action Plan

SUNDAY 31st December: 1st of ChristmasThe Wider View

At the start of this New Year let us, with the Christmas angels, pray for peace on Earth. The scandal of ethnic cleansing in Myanmar continues, and the Rohingya Muslims continue to pour over the borders into Bangladesh. Pray for these and all the world’s refugees, that they may see peace and a way to return to their own homes.

Anglican Zululand (Southern Africa) - The Rt Revd Monument Makhanya.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Abbeydore Deanery: Rural Dean – Nicholas Lowton; Lay Co-Chair – Philip Wilcocks; Sub-Warden of Readers – vacant.

Today At the end of the old year, remember those for whom 2017 has brought danger, tragedy or pain, and pray the year ahead may bring justice and peace.

Porvoo Church in Wales: Diocese of Swansea and Brecon; Church of England: Diocese of Leicester.

Monday 1st January - The Naming & Circumcision of Jesus (New Year’s Day)Anglican Aba (Niger Delta, Nigeria) - The Most Revd Ugochukwu Ezuoke;

Aba Ngwa North (Niger Delta, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Nathan Kanu.Hereford Black Mountains Group - Clodock & Longtown with Craswall, Llanveynoe, St

Margaret’s, Michaelchurch Escley & Newton: Nicholas Lowton, Sam Ashton; Longtown Primary School; Michaelchurch Escley Primary School.

Today Alcohol Concern encourage a “Dry January” as a way of highlighting the problems and dangers of excessive drinking. Pray for those addicted to alcohol or at risk of addiction or related disease, and for organisations seeking to provide help, advice, support and rehabilitation.

Tuesday 2nd January - Basil the Great & Gregory of Nazianzus, bishops; Seraphim, monkAnglican Abakaliki (Enugu, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Monday Nkwoagu.Hereford Ewyas Harold & Dulas, with Abbeydore, Bacton, Kentchurch, Llangua,

Rowlestone & Llancillo, Walterstone, Kilpeck, St Devereux & Wormbridge: Phill Brown, Frank Rodgers, Brian Pearce, Bob Bates; Reader - Sheila Hughes; Reader in Training – Diane Bates; Ewyas Harold Primary School.

Today Seraphim, born in 1759, was a noted staretz, or spiritual guide, whose life was centred on the “Jesus Prayer”. Give thanks for those who sustain the Church in mission by the depth and constancy of their prayer.

Wednesday 3rd JanuaryAnglican Aberdeen & Orkney (Scotland) - The Revd Canon Anne Dyer.Hereford Cagebrook - Kingstone with Clehonger, Eaton Bishop, Allensmore and

Thruxton: Hilary Morgan, Ann Hitchiner, Michael Westall; Kingstone High School; Clehonger CE Primary School, Kingstone & Thruxton Primary School.

Today Festival of Sleep Day, today, is a somewhat light-hearted response to the excesses of the “party season”, but it also has a serious side. Many people suffer from chronic sleep disturbance, and it is a common component of stress-related illness: pray for all who go short of sleep.

Thursday 4th JanuaryAnglican Accra (Ghana, West Africa) - The Rt Revd Daniel Sylvanus Mensah Torto.Hereford Wye Dore - Madley with Tyberton, Peterchurch, Vowchurch & Turnastone:

Simon Lockett, Judy Dinnen.Today Today, the birth date of Louis Braille, is kept as International Braille Day: give

thanks for his invention which continues to liberate and enable those who are blind, and pray for all in our world who are living with loss of sight.

Friday 5th January

Anglican Adelaide (South Australia, Australia) - The Most Revd Geoffrey Martyn Smith;The Rt Revd Christopher McLeod (Assistant Bishop & National Aboriginal Bishop); The Rt Revd Tim Harris (Bishop for Mission and Evangelism).

Hereford Wye Dore Ministry Team – Simon Lockett, Brenda Stokes, Judy Dinnen, Rodney Sanderson, Jean Jones, Val Vaughn, Julie Lunn, Sam Morgan, Helen Byard; Fairfield High School, Peterchurch; Madley Primary School; Peterchurch Primary School.

Today Hosea Williams, born on this day in 1926, was a prominent civil rights campaigner who worked closely with Martin Luther King and became Executive Director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He continued to dedicate his life to the disadvantaged and dispossessed until his death in 2000. Pray for all who today are still marginalised or abused because of race, creed or colour.

Saturday 6th January - EPIPHANY [The Feast of Epiphany may be transferred to tomorrow]Anglican O God, who revealed your only Son to the Gentiles by the leading of a star,

mercifully grant that we, who know you now by faith, may after this life enjoy the splendour of your gracious Godhead, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hereford Borderlink – Cusop with Blakemere, Bredwardine with Brobury, Clifford, Dorstone, Hardwicke, Moccas & Preston-on-Wye: Vacant, Jane Lisvane, Sally Barnes; Reader Emeritus – Keith Bladon; Clifford Primary School.

Today On the traditional day of Epiphany, may we consider the perseverance of the Wise Men, and seek for ourselves the strength and purpose to see things through once decided, where our decision is support by reflection and prayer.

Prayer Eternal God, you make all things new,and yourself are ever the same:help us to begin this year in your faith,and to continue it in your service:guide us in all that we do, and guard us in all our days,that we may spend our lives in devotion to your will,and by your grace attain the glory of everlasting life.(W.E. Orchard, adapted)

SUNDAY 7th January - BAPTISM OF CHRIST (or the Epiphany may be celebrated today)The Wider View

Syrian Refugees in Herefordshire are getting accustomed to life in a new culture, but many of them have left family behind in war-torn Syria. Pray that families everywhere divided by conflict may find a way to be united.

Anglican Pray for The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand & Polynesia: Three bishops share the position and style of archbishop, each representing one of the three tikanga, or cultural streams: Aotearoa (vacant); Polynesia: The Most Revd Winston Halapua; New Zealand: The Most Revd Philip Richardson.

Hereford Pray for all that is done to encourage, enable and enrich prayer life and spirituality within our Diocese, and for spiritual directors and prayer leaders and accompaniers.

Today Today Christmas will be celebrated in churches of the Orthodox tradition, and

we pray for Orthodox Christians across the world and within our own area.Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of London; Church of Norway: Diocese of Nidaros

and Trondheim.Monday 8th January - Baptism of Christ if the Epiphany was celebrated yesterdayAnglican Afikpo (Enugu, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Paul Uduogu.Hereford Borderlink Local Ministry Team – Vacant, Jane Rogers, Hilary Blandford,

Daphne Evans, Barbara Hinksman, John Winter.Today As we celebrate the baptism of our Lord, pray for all those making new

beginnings in faith, or responding to a new sense of God’s call in their lives. Pray also for the Benefice Buildings Committee, meeting today.

Tuesday 9th JanuaryAnglican Agra (North India) - The Rt Revd Prem Prakash Habil.Hereford Support Ministry: Catherine Cashmore, Communications Director, and all who

work with her to enable effective communications both within and about our Diocese.

Today In national Obesity Awareness Week, we reflect on the many health problems resulting from obesity, and on our need as a society to tackle this.

Wednesday 10th January - William Laud, archbishopAnglican Aguata (Niger, Nigeria) - The Most Revd Christian Efobi;

Ahoada (Niger Delta, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Clement Ekpeye.Hereford Support Ministry: Hospital Chaplaincy in Hereford County Hospital & the Wye

Valley NHS Trust: Philip Roberts, chaplain, and honorary chaplains, Judy Dinnen, Angie Deane, Susan Verwey, Henry Verwey, Helen Clarke, Michael Johnson. A group of lay volunteers: Lesley Phillips, John Phillips, Pat Watkins, Jenny Underhill, Roy Little, help with the Sunday services. Pray also for the RC Chaplain and all who offer spiritual support to patients and families.

Today Pray for today’s Bishop’s Staff meeting. Pray also for those who clean and prepare our churches for worship week by week.

Thursday 11th January - Mary Slessor, missionaryAnglican Aipo Rongo (Papua New Guinea) - The Rt Revd Nathan Ingen.Hereford Support Ministry: Pray for chaplaincy teams at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital,

the Princess Royal Hospital, Telford, and other hospitals outside our Diocese but providing healthcare to our area; pray too for all who offer chaplaincy support in the smaller local hospitals within our Diocese.

Today Give thanks for the distinctive witness of the Mothers’ Union within our Diocese and across our Communion: Mothers’ Union Midday Prayers take place today in the Cathedral.

Friday 12th January - Aelred, abbot; Benedict Biscop, scholarAnglican Ajayi Crowther (Ibadan, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Olugbenga Oduntan.Hereford Support Ministry: Helen Clarke, lead mental health chaplain of the 2gether

NHS Foundation Trust, providing mental health and learning disability services in Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, including the Stonebow Unit in Hereford.

Today Aelred, a disciple of Bernard of Clairvaux, and Benedict Biscop. scholar-abbot of Wearmouth, in their different ways and times represent the wealth of Christian witness and scholarship that emerges from the North-East of England. Pray for those who follow them as Christian scholars in our time.

Saturday 13th January - Hilary, bishop; Kentigern (Mungo), missionary; George Fox, reformerAnglican Akoko (Ondo, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Gabriel Akinbiyi;

Akoko Edo (Bendel, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Jolly Oyekpen.Hereford Support Ministry: Keith Shaw CA, and all offering chaplaincy support within the

South Staffordshire and Shropshire Foundation Trust offering mental health care within the northern part of our Diocese.

Today Give thanks especially today for the distinctive contribution of the Society of Friends historically and within the Church today, and pray for Quakers meeting and working in our area. Kentigern, having been driven into exile by the anti-Christian King of Strathclyde, may well have founded the cathedral church at St Asaph before his return north: pray today for our neighbour Diocese of St Asaph.

Prayer O Lord,because of our frailty we often sin, and must ask for pardon:so help us to forgive as we would be forgiven,and not to mention old offences committed against us,nor to dwell upon them in our thoughtor be influenced by them in our heart.Encourage and help us to love our sister and brother freely,as you freely love us,for Jesus Christ’s sake.Christina Rossetti (adapted)

SUNDAY 14th January - 2nd of EpiphanyThe Wider View

Give thanks for the very successful visit of Bishop Ark last October, along with seven Landfrauen (farming women), and for the many contacts made and good experiences shared.

Anglican Pray for The Anglican Church of Australia: The Most Revd Philip Leslie Freier, Archbishop of Melbourne & Primate of Australia.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Bridgnorth Deanery: Rural Dean – Mark Daborn; Lay Co-Chair – Martin Elcock; Sub-Warden of Readers – Garry Ward.

Today Plough Sunday, by tradition the Sunday after the Epiphany, may have been celebrated last Sunday or may be marked today. Looking to the year ahead, we pray for the farmers and growers of our Diocese, for all who work in the agricultural industry, and that we use well the precious resources of the soil.

Porvoo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland: Diocese of Oulu; Church of Norway: Diocese of Soer-Hålogaland (Bodoe); Church of England: Diocese of Coventry.

Monday 15th JanuaryAnglican Akot (Bahr El Ghazal, South Sudan) - The Rt Revd Isaac Dhieu Ater.Hereford Alveley and Quatt: Neil Dunlop, Assoc. Minister Wendy Rylance; Clergy with PTO –

Ruth Sims; Readers – Barrie Jenkins, Sue Chidwick; Alveley Primary School.Today “Blue Monday” marked today, derives from the supposed identification of the

third Monday in January as the most depressing day of the year. What is clear is that for some people the “winter blues” are more than just a minor inconvenience: pray for those who really struggle through these dark days.

Tuesday 16th JanuaryAnglican Akure (Ondo, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Simeon Borokini.Hereford Brown Clee Group – Ditton Priors, Chetton, Neenton, Burwarton with Cleobury

North, Aston Botterell, Wheathill & Loughton: Terry Mason; Reader – Dorothy Cartwright; Local Ministry Group: Bobbie Jarvis, Catherine Price, Carole Smith, Mike Teague, Marjorie Jones; Brown Clee C E Primary School.

Today On Martin Luther King Day, pray for justice to prevail wherever communities are divided and people exploited or excluded on grounds of race and colour.

Wednesday 17th January - Antony of Egypt, hermit; Charles GoreAnglican Alabama (IV, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd John Sloan;

Albany (II, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd William Love.Hereford Stottesdon with Farlow, Cleeton St Mary, Silvington, Sidbury & Middleton Scriven:

Mark Daborn; Reader-in-training – Alex Daborn; Farlow CE Primary School; Stottesdon CE Primary School.

Today As the Diocesan Advisory Committee meets, give thanks for the conservation and care of our ancient church buildings, and pray for their use and development to meet today’s needs and opportunities. Pray also for those called today to lead a solitary life of prayer.

Thursday 18th January - Amy Carmichael; Week of Prayer for Christian Unity beginsAnglican Alaska (VIII, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd Mark Lattime.Hereford Bridgnorth and Morville Parishes Team Ministry – Bridgnorth with Tasley, Astley

Abbotts, Oldbury & Quatford, Morville, Aston Eyre, Acton Round and Monkhopton: Simon Cawdell, Team Vicar Sarah Cawdell, Assoc. Minister Marjorie Brooks, Curate Clive Munday; Clergy with PTO – Hugh Patterson, John Ward, John Webb; Intergenerational Missioner – Kate King; Ordinand – Jo Simons; Local Ministry Team – Clergy, plus: Kay Prior, Sheila Royle, Sandie Phillips; Reader with PTO – Sheila Hodgkins; Reader in Training – Jane Peeler. Children, Families and Education Co-ordinator - Emma Lambert.

Today Rural Deans and Lay Co-Chairs meet today at the Diocesan Office. Pray also for those attending a lecture at the Ludlow Mascall Centre by Jonathan Boardman, entitled “Religious or Spiritual - An Investigation of Two National Souls” and given to mark International Holocaust Memorial Day (next week).

Friday 19th January - Wulfstan, bishopAnglican Algoma (Ontario, Canada) - The Rt Revd Anne Germond.Hereford Bridgnorth Endowed School, Oldbury Wells School, Castlefields Primary

School, St Leonards CE Primary School, St Mary’s Bluecoat CE Primary School, Morville CE Primary School, St John’s Catholic Primary School; Bridgnorth & South Shropshire Infirmary.

Today Wulfstan, the only Saxon bishop to retain his diocese after 1066, is remembered as the gentle and saintly bishop of our neighbour Diocese of Worcester. Pray for that diocese and its mission and ministry today.

Saturday 20th January - Richard Rolle, spiritual writerAnglican The Amazon (Brazil) - The Rt Revd Saulo Mauricio de Barros.Hereford Claverley with Tuck Hill: Garry Ward; Reader – Colin Bailey; Claverley CE Primary

School.Today Pray for the schools of our Diocese, and especially for church schools. Pray for

those rural schools which, small and perhaps struggling, feel themselves to be vulnerable, and for heads, teachers and other staff, and for governors as they face up to challenges and changing needs. Pray also for all members of the Bishop’s Council, which meets today.

Prayer Almighty God, who yourself are love,fill us with the spirit of your holy love:that, our hearts being enkindled by you,we may forever love you,and all people in you,through Jesus Christ our Lord,who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, ever one God.(Eric Milner-White)

SUNDAY 21st January - 3rd of EpiphanyThe Wider View

After the meeting in December 2017 in Kenya to discuss the pollution of the World’s Oceans, may we all commit to play our part in cutting down the use of unnecessary plastic, and disposing responsibly of what we use.

Anglican Pray for The Church of Bangladesh: The Most Revd Paul Shishir Sarker, Moderator, & Bishop of Dhaka.

Hereford Pray for our work with children and families across the Diocese, including Messy Church, Open the Book, and other programmes: for recruitment, training, development and growth.

Today Today is World Religion Day, initiated by the Baha’i faith but now kept more widely. Pray for religious tolerance and understanding, and for those places and communities where these are sadly lacking; give thanks for the interfaith links we have, and pray for David Roberts, Diocesan Interfaith Officer.

Porvoo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland: Diocese of Tampere; Church of England: Diocese of Manchester.

Monday 22nd January - Vincent of Saragossa, deacon and martyrAnglican Amichi (Niger, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Ephraim Ikeakor.Hereford Highley with Billingsley, Glazeley & Deuxhill, Chelmarsh: Mike Harris, Assoc.

Minister Val Smith; Readers – Keith Smith, Mary Nelson, Mary Rayner; Highley Community Primary School.

Today The Council of Bishops meets today at Church House. Today also begins Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, and we pray for all that is being done to educate and enable women to reduce the risks of this disease.

Tuesday 23rd JanuaryAnglican Amritsar (North India) - The Rt Revd Pradeep Samantaroy;

Andaman & Car Nicobar Islands (North India) - The Rt Revd Christopher Paul.Hereford Worfield: Jeannetta Stokes; Worfield Endowed CE Primary School.Today As the Diocesan Board of Finance Executive meets, pray for those responsible

for guiding our Diocese financially in these testing and difficult times.Wednesday 24th January - Francis de Sales, bishop and teacher of the faithAnglican All Saints Cathedral Diocese, Nairobi (Kenya) - The Most Revd Jackson Ole

Sapit, Archbishop of All Kenya; The Rt Revd David Mutisya (Garissa Missionary Area); The Rt Revd Cleti Ogeto (Suffragan).

Hereford Support Ministry: Elizabeth Hackney, Lead Intergenerational Missioner, working to enable and equip ministry with children, young people and families in the local church.

Today Pray for the safety of all road users, and especially riders and pedestrians. Pray for those who give road safety training to children in our schools and elsewhere. Remember and pray for those families directly affected by road traffic accidents, and dealing with bereavement or disability.

Thursday 25th January - The Conversion of PaulAnglican Anglican Parishes of the Central Interior (formerly Cariboo) (British Columbia &

the Yukon, Canada) - The Rt Revd Barbara Jean Andrews.Hereford Support Ministry: Karilyn Collins, advising on partnership and development issues,

and encouraging awareness of, and support for, development needs and opportunities worldwide.

Today Today begins the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This year’s theme is “That all may be free”, and material has been developed by the Caribbean Council of Churches. Pray also for those attending the Clergy Study Day at Craven Arms, and a talk on “Holocaust and Human Nature” given by Chris Moore at the Mascall Centre. There is also a meeting today of the Revenue Advisory Panel.

Friday 26th January - Timothy and Titus, companions of PaulAnglican Angola (Missionary Diocese) (Southern Africa) - The Rt Revd Andre Soares.Hereford Support Ministry: Gail Bonella-Foster, advising on disability issues, and

encouraging awareness and good practice across our churches.Today Yesterday was Burns Night, but no doubt there will be Burns-themed events in

many places through the coming weekend. Pray also for the people of Australia on this their national day.

Saturday 27th JanuaryAnglican Ankole (Uganda) - The Rt Revd Sheldon Mwesigwa.Hereford Support Ministry: Hospice chaplaincy - Jill Groves, chaplain at St Michael’s Hospice,

Bartestree, and chaplancy at the Severn Hospice serving the north of the Diocese.Today Today is Holocaust Memorial Day. Ethnic cleansing continues in too many

places in our world, and our own society is arguably becoming less tolerant of the “other”. It is important the world does not come to see the Holocaust as an event which though historically important cannot happen again: it can, and it is.

Today also begins National Storytelling Week: give thanks for all who have and use this skill, and for those especially who “storytell the Gospel message”.

Prayer Lord,isn’t your creation wasteful?Fruits never equal the seedlings’ abundance.Springs scatter water.The sun gives out enormous light.May your bounty teach me greatness of heart,may your magnificence stop me being mean.Seeing you a prodigal and open-handed giver,let me give unstintingly,like a king’s son,like God’s own.(Helder Camara)

SUNDAY 28th January - 4th of Epiphany (or Candlemas may be celebrated today)The Wider View

Pray for the work of the “Courage to Live Foundation" in Nuremberg, providing financial support to parents with a sick or disabled child, especially where statutory support is not available.

Anglican Pray for Igreja Episcopal Anglicana do Brasil (the Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil: The Most Revd Francisco de Assis da Silva Primate of Brazil & Bishop of South-Western Brazil.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Bromyard Deanery: Rural Dean – Clive Evans; Lay Co-Chair – Brenda Allan; Sub-Warden of Readers – Clive Evans.

Today Today is World Leprosy Day: pray for people and communities still impacted by this disease. The Leprosy Mission emphasizes the close association of leprosy with poverty: pray for the development and empowerment of affected communities. Today is also the RSPB’s Great Garden Birdwatch Day - pray for all involved in conservation and habitat maintenance (churchyards included!).

Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of Birmingham; Church of Ireland: Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross; Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark: Diocese of Elsinore.

Monday 29th January - nb Ordinary Time begins today if Candlemas celebrated yesterdayAnglican Antananarivo Madagascar (Indian Ocean) - The Rt Revd Samoela Jaona

Ranarivelo; also the new Diocese of Tulear, formed in 2013 having been a mission area in the Diocese of Antananarivo - The Rt Revd Todd McGregor.

Hereford Frome Valley Group – Bishop’s Frome with Castle Frome & Frome’s Hill, Acton Beauchamp, Evesbatch, Stanford Bishop, Much Cowarne, Ocle Pychard: Steven Baggs, Richard Priest, Richard Allaway; Burley Gate CE Primary School; Burley Gate Pre-School.

Today Barbara Harris, elected as suffragan bishop for the Diocese of Massachussetts on this day in 1989, and consecrated on 11th February, was the first woman to be ordained bishop in the Anglican Communion. Give thanks for the ministry of women within our Church, and for the ways in which this ministry gives whole-

ness and integrity, and enriches the life and ministry of the Body of Christ.Tuesday 30th January - Charles, king and martyrAnglican Antsiranana - (Indian Ocean Madagascar) The Rt Revd Theophile Botomazava.Hereford Bromyard and Stoke Lacy: Clive Evans, Kina Robertshaw; Reader Emeritus - Pam

Binyon; Queen Elizabeth Humanities College Bromyard, Brockhampton Primary School; St Peter’s Primary School; Froome Bank Hospital; The HOPE Family Centre: Sarah Eardley, Centre Manager.

Today The feast day of Charles, king and martyr focuses our thoughts on a turbulent time in our history as both Church and State, and may prompt some reflection on polarizing and divisive forces within Church and society today. In some ways our nation is deeply divided: pray for healing and unity.

Wednesday 31st January - John Bosco, founder of the SalesiansAnglican Aotearoa (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia) - vacant [this is the overall see serving

the Maori congregations of the Province].Hereford Bredenbury with Grendon Bishop & Wacton; Edwyn Ralph with Collington &

Thornbury; Pencombe with Marston Stannett & Little Cowarne; Ullingswick: Elizabeth Sidwell, Mari Nowell, Sue Williams; Bredenbury Primary School; Pencombe CE Primary School; Rowden House Special School.

Today Pray for our effective use of social media and the web, to inform, teach, challenge and do mission, and for those attending a training day today at Kingsland.

Thursday 1st February - Brigid, abbess, co-patron of IrelandAnglican Argyll & The Isles (Scotland) - The Rt Revd Kevin Pearson.Hereford Greater Whitbourne – Edvin Loach with Tedstone Delamere, Tedstone Wafer,

Upper Sapey, Wolferlow & Whitbourne: Interim Minister Dawn Hyett, Doiran Williams.

Today Pray for all attending today’s Incumbents’ meeting at the Diocesan Offices.Friday 2nd February - The Presentation of Christ in the Temple (Candlemas) if not on Sunday 28thAnglican Arizona (VIII, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd Kirk Smith.

Arkansas (VII, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd Larry Benfield.Hereford Archdeacons: Pray for Paddy Benson and Bishop Alistair Magowan in their

roles as Archdeacons of Hereford and Ludlow. Pray for George Howe, covering the Ludlow Archdeaconry during Bishop Alistair’s sabbatical, and for the Archdeacon Paddy as he prepares for retirement.

Today Today we remember that the child Jesus was affirmed as light for the world by Simeon in the temple, and we pray that the Church that bears his name may shine with his light to transform the world’s darkness, desperation and doubt. Today is also World Wetlands Day. Wetlands are threatened resources, with a vital role as buffers against the impact of extreme weather conditions.

Saturday 3rd February - Anskar, archbishopAnglican Armidale - (New South Wales, Australia) The Rt Revd Richard Lewers.Hereford Rural Deans, Lay Co-Chairs and Deanery officers: Pray for all who serve the

Diocese in this way, especially for those newly taking up these posts.

Today Anskar, apostle of the North, is patron of Denmark and planted the first church in Sweden: pray for the churches in these lands today, with which we are linked in the Porvoo Communion.

Prayer Bless, O Lord, before we dineeach dish of food, each glass of wine,and bless our hearts, that we may beaware of what we owe to thee.(Leathersellers’ Company, C19)

SUNDAY 4th February - 2nd before LentThe Wider View

Pray that God will sustain and guide all mission and aid agencies in their work with refugees and displaced peoples: pray they will have sufficient funding for the programmes they seek to develop, and that they are able to continue to bring hope and comfort when all appears to be lost.

Anglican Pray for The Anglican Church of Burundi: The Most Revd Martin Nyaboho Archbishop of Burundi & Bishop of Makamba.

Hereford Pray for the enabling and encouragement of growth and renewal across our Diocese: for initiatives in evangelism, new forms of worship and ideas for outreach, and the sharing of good practice.

Today May we pray today that our care for and use of the world may reflect the mind and heart of its Creator; at a time when international concern is growing regarding such issues as the pollution of our oceans by plastic waste, may churches be at the forefront of those campaigning and working for change.

Porvoo Church in Wales: Diocese of Bangor; Church of Ireland: Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough.

Monday 5th FebruaryAnglican Arochukwu/Ohafia (Aba, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Johnson Onuoha.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: Dean – Michael Tavinor, and Residentiary Canons -

Andrew Piper (Precentor), Christopher Pullin (Chancellor); Lay Canons of Chapter – Richard Price, Gordon Powell, Barbara Gratton; Chapter Clerk – Glyn Morgan. Pray also for the maintenance and conservation of this great and important building.

Today Today begins Tinnitus Awareness Week: pray for all who suffer from this debilitating and disorienting disease, and for better access to treatments and therapies to reduce and control its impact.

Tuesday 6th February - Martyrs of Japan; Accession of Queen Elizabeth IIAnglican Aru (Congo) - The Rt Revd Georges Titre Ande.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: Administrative staff - Glyn Morgan, Liz Morawiecka, Mark

Carter, Gill Atkins, Julie Anscomb, Clare Wichbold, Lynette Walker, Clare Stevens; Vergers - Tim Pryse-Davies, Stephen Guy, Lyn Smith, Miles Welborn.

Today Pray for those attending today’s Learning Hub Day at the Ludlow diocesan offices, facilitated by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity). Today is also kept as Safer Internet Day, promoting safer access to and use of the net especially with children and young people in mind.

Wednesday 7th FebruaryAnglican Asaba (Bendel, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Justus Mogekwu.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: Geraint Bowen, Organist and Director of Music; Peter

Dyke, Assistant Director of Music; Timothy Symons, Music and Liturgy Administrator; choristers, and all who support the music of the Cathedral. Pray also for the Cathedral bell ringers.

Today Pray for today’s Continuing Ministerial Development day on “Engaging Reality”, led by Alison Webster.

Thursday 8th FebruaryAnglican Asante-Mampong (Ghana, West Africa) - The Rt Revd Cyril Ben-Smith.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: The commercial operations of the Cathedral, work with

schools and children, the Mappa Mundi exhibition, library and archives; also the Cathedral Friends and the Perpetual Trust. Give thanks for the many volunteers who greet and serve visitors to the Cathedral and its exhibitions, and those who serve as day chaplains.

Today Pray for today’s “Life & Learning @ Ludlow” session - “Separate Tables: Divergence and Convergence in Worship”, led by Chris Walsh.

Friday 9th FebruaryAnglican Athabasca (Rupert's Land, Canada) - The Rt Revd Fraser Lawton.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: Hereford Cathedral School – Paul Smith, headmaster;

Hereford Cathedral Junior School – Chris Wright, headmaster.Today “National Toothache Day” may prompt us to pray for all who work in dentistry,

and particularly for those who seek to ensure that children learn about oral hygiene and how to protect their teeth and gums. Pray also for the Filling Station movement (pun not intended, by the way) as a model of how Christians regardless of denomination can work together to encourage spiritual life in their region: pray for Filling Station groups meeting within our area.

Saturday 10th February - Scholastica, abbessAnglican Atlanta (IV, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd Robert C Wright.Hereford Hereford Cathedral: Pam Row, Cathedral Chaplain, Graham Bennett, Reader,

and all who lead and enable the worship of the Cathedral; Also the Ecumenical Companions: Bishops Ark and Elisabeth (Nuremberg), Fr Cadfan Williams (Belmont Abbey), Steve Sully (Challenge Community Church).

Today Scholastica was the sister of Benedict of Nursia, and sought to follow his rule as abbess of Plumbariola: pray for all today who commit themselves to live according to the rule of Benedict today, as monks and nuns, or as oblates.

Prayer Make us ever eager, Lord,to share the good things that you give us.Give us such a measure of your Spiritthat we may find more pleasure in giving than in getting.Make us ready to give cheerfully without grudging,secretly without praise,and in sincerity without looking for gratitude,

for Jesus Christ’s sake.(John Hunter)

SUNDAY 11th February - Next before LentThe Wider View

Pray that funding will be forthcoming for the Diocesan “Train a Priest” programme for Tanzania: that promised money will be found, and new parishes come to see the value of being part of this important project.

Anglican Pray for The Anglican Church of Canada: The Most Revd Frederick Hiltz, Primate.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Clun Forest Deanery: Rural Dean – Stephanie Fountain; Lay Co-Chair – Andrew Wood; Treasurer- Sally Currin; Sub-Warden of Readers – Jonathan Kemp; Deanery Healing Adviser - Mary Hardham.

Today Pope John Paul II declared the 11th day of February as the “World Day of the Sick”, a time to pray especially for those living with long-term or incurable illnesses, those who care for them, and all that is done to provide support, healing and hope (the day coincides with the traditional remembrance of Our Lady of Lourdes).

Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of Worcester; Church of Norway: Diocese of Hamar.Monday 12th FebruaryAnglican Attooch (Upper Nile, South Sudan) - The Rt Revd Moses Anur.Hereford Ridgeway Group - Bishop’s Castle with Mainstone, Lydbury North and Edgton,

& Sarn: Stephanie Fountain; Readers – Cathy Owen, Sylvia Taylor; Benefice Administrator, – Cathy Owen; Retired Clergy - Graham Lloyd, Michael Plunkett, Richard Burn, Ian Ball, Kevin Skippon; LMDG- Angela Pooley; Community College, Bishop’s Castle; Bishop’s Castle Primary School; Lydbury North CE Primary School; Bishop's Castle Community Hospital.

Today Pray for those most isolated in our rural communities, especially the elderly or those with mobility problems, where access to public transport and other facilities is limited; give thanks for good neighbour and car share schemes, coffee and chat venues, visiting projects, and all who volunteer to help

Tuesday 13th February - Shrove TuesdayAnglican Auckland (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia) - The Rt Revd Ross Bay; The Rt Revd

James White, assistant bishop.Hereford Middle Marches Group - Bedstone, Bucknell, Chapel Lawn, Clungunford,

Hopton Castle, Llanfair Waterdine, Stowe: Annie Ballard; Readers – Jonathan Kemp; Vision and Strategy Group: Pat Hancock, Ian Hay-Campbell, Jonathan Kemp, Brian Kingshott, Richard Lewis, Maurice Moore, Margi Savery; St Mary’s CE Primary School, Bucknell; Bedstone College.

Today Pray for the Bishop’s Staff, meeting today; Shrove Tuesday is by tradition a day for parties and community events - give thanks for the social lives of our communities, and for those who organise and run family friendly activities.

Wednesday 14th February - ASH WEDNESDAYAnglican Aweil (Bahr El Ghazal, South Sudan) - The Rt Revd Abraham Yel Nhial; The Rt

Revd Michael Deng K Bol (Suffragan Bishop, Abyei Area);

Awerial (Bahr El Ghazal, South Sudan) - The Rt Revd David Akau Kuol.Hereford Clun Valley Group - Clun with Bettws y Crwyn, Newcastle, Clunton, Clunbury

and Hopesay: Simon Mondon; Retired Clergy – Harry Moore, Maurice Young, Robert Payne; Local Ministry Team – Sandra Davies, Pam Pittwood; Newcastle CE Primary School; St George’s CE School, Clun; Clunbury Primary CE Schl.

Today Pray that our keeping of the Lenten fast will be disciplined and purposeful, and will feed our spiritual selves. On Valentine’s Day, give thanks for all loving relationships, and for the power of love to change, transform and enrich our lives. Pray too for all preparing for marriage in our churches this year.

Thursday 15th February - Sigfrid, bishop; Thomas Bray, founder of SPCK and SPGAnglican Awgu / Aninri (Niger, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Emmanuel Ugwu.Hereford Onny Camlad Group – Wentnor with Ratlinghope; Myndtown & Norbury,

Lydham, More & Snead, Churchstoke & Hyssington: Deborah Swann; Carol Whittock (Mission Priest half-time); Retired Clergy – Michael Pollit, Michael Whittock; Readers - David Jelves, Mette Wardle; Onny Camlad Local Ministry Development Group: Carol Whittock, Margaret Wallsgrove, Trish Macmullan, Anita Bright, Bob Berry, Shirley Jones, Mette Wardle. Churchstoke School; Norbury School.

Today Give thanks for the vision and energy of Thomas Bray, a child of this Diocese, and pray for the mission and teaching work of USPG and SPCK today. Pray for today’s Safeguarding C3 session, for a meeting of “Heads and Revs” looking at multi-benefice and multi-school situations, and for the Diocesan Advisory Committee.

Friday 16th FebruaryAnglican Awka (Niger, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Alexander Ibezim;

Awori (Lagos, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd J Akin Atere.Hereford Support Ministry: Wendy Coombey works to support parishes in project

development, and in the creative development and wider community use of church buildings. Simon Whaley is the Church Projects and Funding Support Assistant, giving initial advice on funding matters.

Today Pray for the people of China, as the Chinese New Year begins.Saturday 17th February - Janani Luwum, archbishop and martyrAnglican Badagry (Lagos, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Joseph Adeyemi.Hereford Support Ministry: Tim Bridges, Church Building Support Officer, advising on

heritage projects and building repairs, and working closely with Wendy Coombey.Today Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day - give thanks for the ways in which we

are surprised and delighted, or comforted, by the kindness of others.Prayer Pray for me, as I will for thee, that we may merrily meet in heaven.

(Sir Thomas More)SUNDAY 18th February - 1st of LentThe Wider View

Steve Chandler once again returns to St Augustine’s School in Dar es Salaam at the end of February; he will be teaching at the school, and also encouraging the permaculture project started there by Hereford Diocese. Pray for his trip

and also that the other permaculture programmes supported by Hereford will grow and influence others to make better use of our fragile world that is so easily over exploited.

Anglican Pray for The Church of the Province of Central Africa: The Most Revd Albert Chama, Archbishop of Central Africa & Bishop of Northern Zambia.

Hereford Pray for the development and deepening of links between church and community across our Diocese, and for a collaborative approach as we seek to identify and respond to needs, opportunities and social issues in each place.

Today As we remember our Lord’s time in the wilderness, reflect on how we respond to the things that challenge our faith and our commitment to serve; and on the wilderness as a place of useful and necessary testing.

Porvoo Church of Ireland: Diocese of Limerick and Killaloe; Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark: Diocese of Roskilde.

Monday 19th FebruaryAnglican Ballarat (Victoria, Australia) - The Rt Revd Garry Weatherill.Hereford Support Ministry: Hilary Morgan, Chaplain for the Deaf, and the Deaf Church

meeting at St Mary’s, Grandstand Road, Hereford. Pray also for all that is done to enable ministry to deaf people wherever they are, including training people in sign language.

Today Today begins Student Volunteering Week, promoted by Student Hubs and the NUS, in the belief that when students are get involved with social challenges and issues, and connect with each other, both they and communities benefit.

Tuesday 20th FebruaryAnglican Bangor (Wales) - The Rt Revd Andrew John.Hereford Support Ministry: John Daniels, Local Ministry Officer, encouraging parishes

and groups to consider Local Ministry, and facilitating debate, training and formation.

Today Pray for all who work in the news media, especially in our local setting - for our local newspapers and radio stations, and for on-line news providers.

Wednesday 21st February - Ember DayAnglican Banks & Torres (Melanesia) - The Rt Revd Alfred Patterson Worek.Hereford Support Ministry: Amanda McPhee, Safeguarding Adviser, providing training

and resources to enable high standards of safeguarding throughout the Diocese.

Today Ember Days are traditionally a time for pray for ordained ministers and for the ordained ministry as a whole, and to pray for vocations. Pray also for all leading or attending Lent groups and other special meetings and acts of worship through this holy season.

Thursday 22nd FebruaryAnglican Bari (Kaduna, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Idris Zubairu.Hereford Outreach and Mission: Pray for the effective use and sharing of the new

Diocesan on-line magazine “Inspire”, encouraging development and growth

and offering new ideas; and for Catherine Cashmore and Caroline Pascoe as they develop this new resource.

Today On Thinking Day (with the theme this year of “Impact”), pray for all involved in the Girl Guiding movement here and worldwide. Pray also for today’s “Life and Learning @ Ludlow” meeting: Dan Inman will speak on “Technology, Reformation and the Future of Church”.

Friday 23rd February - Polycarp, bishop and martyr; Ember DayAnglican Barisal (Bangladesh) - The Rt Revd Shourabh Pholia.Hereford Outreach and Mission: Many people and families come into contact with their

local church at significant life events; pray we may offer a warm welcome, a generous response and caring ministry as we share with those who come to us to mark life events both happy and sad.

Today There is a tradition that Polycarp, martyred in 155 at the age of 86, was discipled by the apostle John; certainly he provides a link into apostolic times, and the story of his death prompts reflection into what it means to bear faithful witness in the face of opposition and persecution.

Saturday 24th February - Ember DayAnglican Barrackpore (North India) - The Rt Revd Brojen Malakar.Hereford Outreach and Mission: Pray for the effective use of media both traditional and

modern in each local situation, and as local churches learn how to respond to the new opportunities for outreach digital media can offer.

Today Real Bread Week, beginning today, prompts prayer for artisan bakeries and other local food producers and providers serving our communities, and thought about healthy, sustainable and environmentally aware eating.

Prayer O Lord God, in whom we live and move and have our being,open our eyes to see your fatherly presence about us.Draw our hearts t you by the power of your love.Teach us to be anxious for nothing,and when we have done what you have given us to do,help us, O God our Saviour, to leave the outcome to your wisdom.Take from us all doubt and mistrust, and lift our thoughts up to you in heaven.Make us to know that all things are possible to usthrough your Son, our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.(Brooke Foss Westcott)

SUNDAY 25th February - 2nd of LentThe Wider View

At the beginning of March, 2 young doctors from Hereford are going to Muheza for a month on the Hereford - Muheza link. Pray for safe travel and that the trip will be of value both to the patients and staff at Muheza and to themselves.

Anglican Pray for Iglesia Anglicana de la Region Central de America (the Anglican Church of the Central American Region: The Most Revd Sturdie Downs, Primate of IARCA & Bishop of Nicaragua.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Condover Deanery: Rural Dean – Richard Hill; Lay Co-Chair – Janet Wilcoxon; Sub-Warden of Readers – Nancy Cleaton.

Today Pray for choristers and musicians in our churches, and for those many rural churches which currently struggle to find organists and musicians. Pray for a new awareness of the value of music within education, and for better music provision in our schools.

Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of Peterborough; Church of Ireland: Diocese of Meath and Kildare.

Monday 26th FebruaryAnglican Bath & Wells (Canterbury, England) - The Rt Revd Peter Hancock; The Rt

Revd Ruth Worsley, suffragan (Taunton).Hereford Condover with Ryton, Frodesley, Acton Burnell & Pitchford: Geoff Garrett;

Reader – Raymond Evanson; Reader in Training – Jeremy Lowe; Condover CE Primary School.

Today Pray for today’s Mothers’ Union Trustees meeting. Fair Trade Fortnight begins today, with the theme “Come on in”: pray for fairtrade groups in our churches and communities, and for better awareness of the origins and true costs of the foodstuffs, clothing etc we buy from around the world.

Tuesday 27th February - George Herbert, priest and poetAnglican Bathurst (New South Wales, Australia) - The Rt Revd Ian Palmer.Hereford Church Stretton with All Stretton and Little Stretton: Richard Hill, Louise

Magowan; Reader - Robert Rayner; Reader in Training – Gillian Taylor; Children’s Worker Sarah Robinson; Youth Worker Sally Clilverd; Church Stretton School; St Lawrence CE Primary School.

Today “Christ accompanied George Herbert everywhere and in everything”. Though written for a different time “The Country Parson” remains an important statement of what humble and godly service within a community requires of us. Pray for all who reflect on, and work to resource, rural ministry today.

Wednesday 28th FebruaryAnglican Bauchi (Jos, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Musa Tula.Hereford The Steeplewood Fold Group - Dorrington with Leebotwood, Longnor,

Stapleton, Smethcote & Woolstaston: Laura Dalton, Caroline Wright; Reader – Mike James; Dorrington CE Primary School; Longnor CE Primary School.

Today Pray for today’s Safeguarding C3 session, and for the Incumbents’ Meeting. Rare Disease Day today reminds us that there are more than 6000 rare diseases, many poorly understood: pray for research, treatment and care.

Thursday 1st March - David, bishop, patron of WalesAnglican Belize (West Indies) - The Rt Revd Philip Wright.Hereford The Apedale Group - Hope Bowdler with Eaton-under-Heywood, Rushbury and

Cardington: Nancy Cleaton, Virginia Clements; Readers - Joy Kohn, Margaret Stratton; Ordinand – Sue Jelleyman; Local Ministry Development Group – Nancy Cleaton, Virginia Clements, Richard Clements, Sue Jelleyman, Sue Koenig, Sally Maw, Muriel Wallace; Rushbury CE Primary School.

Today Pray today for the churches and people of Wales. Pray for today’s meeting of the Readers’ Association committee, and for the first of a series of “Life and

Learning @ Ludlow” talks by Michael Tavinor on the “Hereford Rogues’ Gallery”. Today is also World Book Day.

Friday 2nd March - Chad, missionary and bishopAnglican Bendigo (Victoria, Australia) - The Rt Revd Andrew William Curnow.Hereford Craven Arms Group – Stokesay with the Pilgrim Centre in Craven Arms,

Halford with Sibdon, Acton Scott, & Wistanstow: vacant, Mervyn Williams; Local Ministry Team – David Ruck, Mervyn Williams, Carol Griffin, Carol Morris, Vanda Dawson, Margaret Semple; Stokesay Primary School; Wistanstow CE Primary School.

Today Pray for our neighbour Diocese of Lichfield on St Chad’s Day. Today also launches the Great British Spring Clean: give thanks for all who help to keep our communities clean and tidy, including many unsung volunteers. Pray for Women’s World Day of Prayer services today, taking the theme from Suriname “All God’s Creation is Very Good.”

Saturday 3rd MarchAnglican Benin (Bendel, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Peter Imasuen.Hereford Wenlock Team Ministry – Much Wenlock with Bourton, Easthope, Stanton

Long, Shipton; and Berrington with Betton Strange and Cross Houses, Church Preen, Cressage, Cound, Harley, Hughley, Kenley, Sheinton: Matthew Stafford, Sarah Hare, John Cumberland; Readers: Paul Trenberth, Simon Hare; Reader Emeritus - Roy Cox, Trevor Hill; associates David Janes, Henry Watson, Mike Kinna; Family Breakfast Service Leaders - Jackie Birt, Jude Walker; Brockton CE Primary School; William Brookes School, Much Wenlock; Much Wenlock Primary School; Christ Church CE Primary School, Cressage; Church Preen Primary School.

Today Pray for all who walk or ride our lanes, footpaths and bridleways.Prayer May the roof above us never fall in, and may we below it never fall out.

(Irish grace)SUNDAY 4th March - 3rd of LentThe Wider View

Various Parishes are holding lent lunches in aid of their Tanzanian links: give thanks for the willingness of volunteers who hold these events and pray that they may be well supported.

Anglican Pray for la Province de L'Eglise Anglicane Du Congo (The Anglican Province of the Congo); The Most Revd Zacharie Masimango Katanda, Archbishop of the Congo & Bishop of Kindu.

Hereford Pray for the effective and thoughtful care and development of our church buildings and churchyards, for worship, for social and community use, and for those who come as visitors or pilgrims.

Today Pray for all who ring our church bells, for the Hereford Diocesan Guild of ringers, for new ringers training, and for efforts to have bells rung in every tower for the centenary this year of the end of the First World War.

Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of Canterbury; Church of Ireland: Diocese of Down and Dromore.

Monday 5th MarchAnglican Bethlehem (III, The Episcopal Church) - The Rt Revd Sean Rowe.Hereford Support Ministry: Neil Patterson, Diocesan Director of Vocations and

Ordinands. Pray for new vocations for ministry from our Diocese, and for those presently in training or preparing to begin. Also for Simon Hare, Diocesan Young Vocations Officer.

Today St Piran’s Day today prompts prayers for the churches and people of Cornwall. Today also begins National Apprenticeships Week: pray for those starting out in the world of work, and for all who are seeking to learn new skills and trades.

Tuesday 6th MarchAnglican Bhopal (North India) - The Rt Revd Robert Ali.Hereford Support Ministry: Richard Shaw, Ecumenical Officer, supporting and advising

churches in the development of links, partnerships and shared areas of work with other denominations.

Today Pray for today’s meeting of the Benefice Buildings Committee, and for the Cathedral School senior school and VIth form open morning.

Wednesday 7th March - Perpetua, Felicity and their companions, martyrsAnglican Bida ( Abuja, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Jonah Kolo.Hereford Support Ministry: Jane Davies, Dean of Women’s Ministry, supporting women

in ordained ministry and as accredited lay workers within the Diocese.Today Pray for today’s Safeguarding C3 session, and also for the CMD day led by

Emma Percy: “Thinking Again about Ministry”.Thursday 8th March - Edward King, bishop; Felix, bishop; Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy, priestAnglican Birmingham (Canterbury, England) - The Rt Revd David Andrew Urquhart; The

Rt Revd Anne Elizabeth Hollinghurst, suffragan (Aston).Blackburn (York, England) - The Rt Revd Julian Tudor Henderson; The Rt Revd Philip North, suffragan (Burnley); the suffragan see of Lancaster is currently vacant.

Hereford Ministry: Give thanks for the ministry of Self-Supporting Ministers (SSMs) within our Diocese, and pray for Anne Lanyon-Hogg, SSM Adviser.

Today Pray for the Bishop’s Staff, meeting today, for today’s Mothers’ Union midday prayers, and for the second of Michael Tavinor’s visits to the “Hereford Rogues’ Gallery”. International Women’s Day today takes the theme “Press for Progress”; World Kidney Day focuses on the impact of Chronic Kidney Disease on the health of women worldwide. Cruft’s also begins today - give thanks for the close links between people and dogs, as pets and as co-workers.

Friday 9th MarchAnglican Bo (Sierra Leone) (West Africa, West Africa) - The Rt Revd Emmanuel Tucker.Hereford Ministry: Give thanks for the ministry of retired clergy within our Diocese, and

pray for Lesley Eden, Retirement Officer for Ludlow Archdeaconry and Andrew Talbot-Ponsonby, Retirement Officer for Hereford Archdeaconry; also for Chris Fletcher and Nigella Tyson, Clergy Widows and Widowers Officers for the

Hereford and Ludlow Archdeaconries, respectively.Today As British Science Week begins, pray for more interest in, and vocations to,

scientific disciplines, and for the resourcing of science teaching and research throughout our education system.

Saturday 10th MarchAnglican Boga (Congo) - The Rt Revd Mugenyi William Bahemuka.Hereford Hereford Deanery: The Bartestree Cross Group - Lugwardine with Bartestree,

Weston Beggard & Dormington, Withington & Westhide: Jane Davies, Paul Roberts, Anne Bayley; Lugwardine Primary School; Withington Primary School; St Mary’s RC High School.

Today Pray for today’s Diocesan Vocations Day, and for all who are at this time wondering whether God is calling them in some new way or to some change of direction. Pray for all who offer guidance in the discernment of vocation and the options available for training.

Prayer Give us, Lord, a steadfast heart,which no unworthy thought can drag downwards;an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out;an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside.And, Lord, bestow upon us also understanding to know you,diligence to seek you, and wisdom to find you,and a faithfulness to finally embrace you;through Jesus Christ our Lord.(Thomas Aquinas, adapted)

SUNDAY 11th March - 4th of Lent, Mothering SundayThe Wider View

Give thanks for the work and witness of the Mothers’ Union worldwide, and pray for the dioceses linked with the Mothers’ Union in Hereford: Yambio (South Sudan), Garissa (Kenya), Mbamili (Nigeria), Willochra (Australia), and Thailand.

Anglican Pray for The Church of England: The Most Revd and Rt Hon Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Hereford Deanery: Rural Dean – Chris Moore; Lay Co-Chair – Jackie Mumford; Sub-Warden of Readers – Malcolm Robertson.

Today Pray for all mothers, for families, and for all who share in the care and nurture of children. Pray also for our Cathedral, and for the other great churches and ancient foundations of our Diocese.

Porvoo Church of England: Diocese of Chelmsford; Church of Sweden: Diocese of Karlstad.

Monday 12th MarchAnglican Bolivia (South America) - The Rt Revd Raphael Samuel.Hereford South Wye Team Ministry – Dinedor with Holme Lacy, Little Dewchurch with

Aconbury, Ballingham & Bolstone: Peter Houghton; St Martin with St Francis, Bullinghope: Anne Dowdeswell, Phil Brown, Anna Branston; Local Ministry Team.

Today Pray for today’s Safeguarding C3 session. National Butchers’ Week begins today - pray for the butcher’s shops that serve our communities, in these often challenging times for small businesses.

Tuesday 13th MarchAnglican Bondo (Kenya) - The Rt Revd Johannes Angela.Hereford South Wye Team Ministry – The Hereford Academy; Riverside Primary School;

Marlbrook Primary School; St Martin’s Primary School; Little Dewchurch CE Primary School; Our Lady’s RC Primary School; Blackmarston School.

Today Pray for the meeting today of the Ludlow Archdeaconry Ministerial and Pastoral Committee. In National Glaucoma Week, pray for all who suffer from this disease, and all who are coping with loss of vision.

Wednesday 14th MarchAnglican Bor (Upper Nile, South Sudan) - The Rt Revd Ruben Akurdid Ngong.Hereford West Hereford Team Ministry – St Nicholas, Holy Trinity, All Saint's and St

Michael, Breinton: Rob North, Ruth Hulse, Matthew Cashmore; Readers – Stuart Vince, Chris Webb, Malcolm Robertson; Reader in Training – Michael Weaver; LMDGs: All Saints – Shellie Byatt, Maggie Fletcher, Barbara Glasspoole, Richard Glasspoole, Jane Hayes, Kalyani Menon, Jackie Mumford, Malcolm Robertson; Holy Trinity – Jane Cadbury, Sam Gawler, Jane Jones, Kay Jones, Og Owen, Robin Woodward; St Nicholas’ – Barbara Bollard, Judy Higginson, Annette Hughes, Anne Newman, Margaret North, Chris Webb, Julia Wright; Whitecross High School; Trinity Primary School; Lord Scudamore Primary School.

Today Pray for today’s DAC meeting. The “Weeping Window” exhibition opens at the Cathedral today - a cascade of several thousand ceramic poppies, designed by Paul Cummins and Tom Piper, a 14-18 NOW project, aiming to prompt a nationwide dialogue around the legacy of the First World War. Pray for all who will visit this installation.

Thursday 15th MarchAnglican Botswana (Central Africa) - The Rt Revd Metlhayotlhe Rawlings Belemi.Hereford St Peter with St Owen & St James: Andy Morgan (from 18th July); PTO -

Sharon Elson, Paul Gill, Val Turner; Readers – Peter Strevens, Roger Lind, Mary Bennett. St Thomas Cantilupe CE School; St James CE School.

Today Pray for meetings today of Rural Deans, Bishop’s Council, and the Hereford Archdeaconry Ministerial and Pastoral Committee, and for today’s “Hereford Rogues’ Gallery” talk at Ludlow by Michael Tavinor.

Friday 16th MarchAnglican Brandon (Rupert's Land, Canada) - The Rt Revd William Cliff.Hereford St Peter & St James Local Ministry Team Ministry Leaders Group – Andy

Morgan, Sharon Elson, Peter Strevens, Gill Holder, Jenny Brooks, Andy Butterfill, Fiona Rawlinson, Don Langford, Graham Taylor, and Mary Bennett.

Today Pray for today’s Education Leadership conference, and for all who seek to encourage and support high standards in teaching and learning.

Saturday 17th March - Patrick, bishop, missionary and patron of IrelandAnglican Brasilia (Brazil) - The Rt Revd Maurício Jose Araujo De Andrade.Hereford Holmer with Huntington: Steven Lee, Rob Oram; Reader – Nancy Thomas;

Holmer CE Academy.Today Pray for the churches and people of Ireland. Today’s Hereford Choral Society

concert at the Cathedral (Duruflé Requiem and Gounod St Cecilia Mass) prompts prayer for all our local and regional choirs and singing groups.

Prayer Lord Jesus Christ,you have called us to take your Gospel message out into the world:renew in us the spirit of faith and service,enlighten our minds to understand your word,and inflame our hearts with such love for youthan on our lips that word may be mightyto overthrow all powers of darkness,and to turn the feet of many into your ways of light and peace.We ask this, and offer ourselves, to the glory of your name.(Francis Macnutt, adapted)

SUNDAY 18th March - 5th of Lent, Passion Sunday (Passiontide begins)The Wider View

USPG Lent course this year (“All Things Are Possible”) has looked at how Anglican Churches around the world are supporting global development, focusing on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); its theme has been that there is a clear and necessary link between faith and an approach to global development that genuinely promotes human wellbeing.

Anglican PRAY for Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui (The Province of Hong Kong): The Most Revd Paul Kwong, Archbishop of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui & Bishop of Hong Kong Island.

Hereford Pray for all who come to our communities - and therefore often to our churches - as visitors and tourists, perhaps to attend community celebrations and events in which the parish church is involved or even central.

Today English Tourism Week begins this weekend: pray for all in our communities who work within the tourism industry, and, in this quite part of the country, for the development of tourism without overwhelming communities, structures and existing industries.

Porvoo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Latvia; Church of England: Diocese of Lichfield; Church in Wales: Diocese of St David’s.

Monday 19th March - Joseph of NazarethAnglican Brechin (Scotland) - The Rt Revd Nigel Peyton.Hereford Tupsley with Hampton Bishop: Nick Armstrong, Rachel Robertson; Readers –

Ray Walters, Eleanor Benson; Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School; St Paul’s CE Primary School; Hampton Dene Primary School; St Paul’s Childcare; Broadlands Primary School; St Francis Xavier RC Primary School; Aylestone Business & Enterprise College.

Today Traditionally, St Joseph’s Day is a time for remembering workers and

workplace organisations. Pray also especially for those who work with wood. Pray also for today’s meeting of the Council for World Partnership and Development, and for our links, friendships and contacts worldwide.

Tuesday 20th March - Cuthbert, bishop and missionaryAnglican Brisbane (Queensland, Australia) - The Most Revd Phillip John Aspinall; The Rt

Revd Jeremy Greaves (Northern Region); The Rt Revd Alison Taylor (Southern Region); The Rt Revd Cameron Venables (Western Region).Anglican Bishop to the Australian Defence Force - (Australia) The Rt Revd Ian Keese Lambert.

Hereford Hereford VI Form College (Chaplain – Diane Evans); Herefordshire & Ludlow College; Hereford College of Arts; Royal National College for the Blind (Chaplain vacant); Holme Lacy College.

Today Cuthbert’s day prompts thanksgiving for the gentle rhythms of Celtic spirituality and for prayer that is tuned into the patterns of the seasons and of nature. Pray also for today’s meeting of the DBF Executive.

Wednesday 21st March - Thomas Cranmer, archbishop and martyrAnglican Bristol (Canterbury, England) - vacant; The Rt Revd Lee Stephen Rayfield,

Bishop of Swindon and acting Diocesan Bishop during the vacancy.Hereford The Maund Group - Bodenham, Felton & Preston Wynne, Marden with

Amberley & Wisteston, Sutton St Nicholas & Sutton St Michael: Vacant; Reader – Janet Hewlett; St Michael’s CE Primary School, Bodenham; Marden Primary School; Sutton Primary School.

Today Give thanks for the beauty and richness of the Book of Common Prayer, and pray for all engaged in liturgical development and composition today. Pray for today’s meeting of the Diocesan Board of Education, and the Parish Giving Scheme launch event.

Thursday 22nd MarchAnglican British Columbia (British Columbia & the Yukon, Canada) - The Rt Revd Logan

McMenamie.Hereford Burghill, Stretton Sugwas, Pipe-cum-Lyde & Moreton-on-Lugg: Vacant; Burghill

Primary School; Stretton Sugwas CE Primary School.Today Today is World Water Day, and a reminder that far too many people in our

world still lack decent water supplies. Pray for the last of Michael Tavinor’s talks on the life and times of the deans and bishops of Hereford, and for the Parish Giving Scheme launch event.

Friday 23rd MarchAnglican Buhiga (Burundi) - The Rt Revd Evariste Nijimbere.Hereford The Magnis Group - Credenhill with Brinsop & Wormsley, Mansel Lacy &

Yazor, Kenchester, Bridge Sollers & Bishopstone: Rana Davies-James, Angie Deane; Reader – Mike Wilkinson; St Mary’s CE Primary School, Credenhill.

Today World Meteorology Day prompts prayer for all who work to forecast, document and understand weather systems and climatic changes, and our awareness of and response to such issues as desertification and rising sea levels.

Saturday 14th March - Walter Hilton, mystic; Paul Couturier, priest; Oscar Romero, martyrAnglican Bujumbura (Burundi) - The Rt Revd Eraste Bigirimana.Hereford Fownhope, Mordiford, Brockhampton, Woolhope & Checkley: Chris Moore;

Reader – Christopher Whitmey; Benefice Ministry Group – Ann Corby, Bill Gunn, Judith Hereford, Chris Moore, Helen Owen, Anne Watkins, Christopher Whitmey and Rosemary Whitmey. St Mary’s CE Primary School, Fownhope (Tim Milne); Mordiford CE Primary School (Kerri Finney).

Today On World TB Day, pray for the continued battle against this disease and its impact on individuals, families and communities.

Prayer Nothing in my hands I bring; simply to thy cross I cling.(Augustus Toplady - “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me”)

SUNDAY 25th March - PALM SUNDAYThe Wider View

Pray for the peoples, cultures and faiths of the Holy Land, and for its peace, in this week in which all our focus is on Jerusalem. In a region still torn by conflict and division, pray that national, community and faith leaders may be ready to listen, learn and come together in creative ways to build bridges of peace, and that the world’s great powers may commit themselves to enable this.

Anglican Pray for the peace of Jerusalem“All glory, laud and honour to thee, Redeemer, King, to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring.”The Most Revd Suheil Dawani, Archbishop, Jerusalem & the Middle East.

Hereford Pray for the churches of the Kington & Weobley Deanery: Rural Dean – Stephen Hollinghurst; Lay Co-Chair – Elizabeth Shayler; Sub-Warden of Readers – Henry Verwey.

Today Pray that those attending our church services today and through this Holy Week may be both challenged and uplifted by the story of love we tell.

Porvoo Church of Sweden: Diocese of Lund; Church of Ireland: Diocese of Cashel, Ossory and Ferns; Church of England: Diocese of Ely.

Monday 26th March - Monday of Holy WeekAnglican Bukavu (Congo) - The Rt Revd Sylvestre Bahati.Hereford Eardisley with Bollingham & Willersley, Brilley, Michaelchurch, Whitney,

Winforton, Almeley & Kinnersley: Marcus Small; Readers - Joyce Banbury, Jeff Glyn-Jones, Len Dixon; Almeley Primary School; Eardisley CE Primary School.

Today Autism Week begins: pray for all who live with autism, for a better awareness of their needs, and for the work of the National Autistic Society. Purple Day, also today, seeks to focus attention on epilepsy, raising awareness and funds to support those living with epilepsy throughout our world.

Tuesday 27th March - Tuesday of Holy WeekAnglican Bukedi (Uganda) - The Rt Revd Samuel Egesa.Hereford Kington with Huntington, Old Radnor, Kinnerton & Titley: Ben Griffith, Paul

Buckingham; Reader - Rob MacCurrach; Kington Primary School; Lady Hawkins High School; Kington Court Hospital.

Today Pray for today’s Safer Recruitment Training event. Pray also for choirs preparing special music for this week and for the celebration of Easter.

Wednesday 28th March - Wednesday of Holy WeekAnglican Bukuru (Jos, Nigeria) - The Rt Revd Jwan Zhumbes.Hereford Letton with Staunton-on-Wye, Byford, Mansel Gamage & Monnington-on-Wye;

Weobley with Sarnesfield & Norton Canon: Sean Semple, Susan Verwey; Reader - Henry Verwey; Staunton-on-Wye Endowed Primary School; Weobley Primary School; Weobley High School.

Today Pray for all who feel lonely and unloved, and for those set adrift when relationships and friendships break down. Pray also for those tempted into acts of spite or revenge, and for their victims.

Thursday 29th March - MAUNDY THURSDAYAnglican Bunbury (Western Australia, Australia) - The Rt Revd Allan Ewing.Hereford Arrowvale Group - Pembridge with Moorcourt, Shobdon, Staunton-on-Arrow,

Byton & Lyonshall: Vacant; Reader – Ian Smith; Pembridge CE Primary School; Shobdon Primary School.

Today Give thanks for the institution of the Holy Eucharist, and that as we break bread together, our Lord promises to be with us. Remember with sadness that what should unite us continues to be a point of division within the Church.

Friday 30th March - GOOD FRIDAYAnglican Bungoma (Kenya) - The Revd George Mechumo.Hereford Presteigne with Discoed, Kinsham, Lingen & Knill: Stephen Hollinghurst,

Debbie Venables; The John Beddoes Secondary School, and Presteigne Primary School.

Today Pray for all taking part in Good Friday walks, processions of witness and other special services and events on this day. Good Friday is often a day of united witness across denominations, and we give thanks for this.

Saturday 31th March - Easter Eve (Holy Saturday)Anglican Bunyoro-Kitara (Uganda) - The Rt Revd Samuel Kahuma.

Busoga (Uganda) - The Rt Revd Paul Moses Samson Naimanhye.Hereford Support Ministry: Pray for the work of the Ludlow Mascall Centre, and in

particular for the Diocesan Resource Library there, and Mel Wilson-Claridge, administrator.

Today As we remember the closed and sealed tomb, pray for all who are living with bereavement, especially those who have no hope in the risen Christ. Pray for the dawning of Easter upon their sadness and loss.

Prayer O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God,who as on this day didst rest in the sepulchre,and didst thereby sanctify the graveto be a bed of hope to thy people:make us so to abound in sorrow for our sins,which were the cause of thy passion,that when our bodies rest in the dust,

our souls may live with thee;who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Spirit,one God, world without end.(The Office of Compline)

Curates in Training:

Anna Branston (year 3 - Hereford South Wye)Kirsty Clarke (year 3 - Leominster Deanery)Max Lambourne (year 3 - Pontesbury)David Moss (year 3 - Hanwood, Longden, Annscroft & Pulverbatch)Paul Roberts (year 3 - Lugwardine & Bartestree) Dawn Taffinder (year 2 - Madeley)Richard Allaway (year 2 - Frome Valley)Simon Tarlton (year 2 - Ross & Walford)Kina Robertshaw (year 2 - Bromyard)Rob Oram (year 2 - Holmer with Huntington)Matthew Cashmore (year 1 - West Hereford)Sam Mann (year 1 - Coalbrookdale, Ironbridge & Little Wenlock)Clive Munday (year 1 - Bridgnorth & Morville)Rachel Robertson (year 1 - Tupsley with Hampton Bishop)

Ordinands in Training:

Lois Beynon - College of the Resurrection, MirfieldJo Burden - Cranmer Hall, DurhamLawrence Gittins - WEMTC, LudlowSue Jelleyman - WEMTC, LudlowIain McIntyre - Cranmer Hall, DurhamDavid Poyner - WEMTC, LudlowJoe Simons - WEMTC, LudlowElliot Swattridge - Trinity College, BristolAlison Walker - Trinity College, BristolDavid Wyatt - Ripon College Cuddesdon

Warden and Sub-Wardens of Readers:

Warden: Rev Preb Dr John Daniels

Sub-Wardens:Vacant AbbeydoreClive Evans BromyardChristopher Whitmey Hereford Henry Verwey Kington & WeobleyRobert Ward LedburyMichael Kneen LeominsterVacant Ross & ArchenfieldGarry Ward Bridgnorth Jonathan Kemp Clun ForestNancy Cleaton CondoverJohn Beesley LudlowNancy Cleaton PontesburyGarry Ward Telford Severn Gorge

Readers in Training:

Jane Peeler Bridgnorth Team Katie Smith KingslandDiana Bates Ewyas HaroldJeremy Lowe Acton BurnellGillian Taylor Church StrettonMichael Weaver Holy Trinity, Hereford Alex Daborn Stottesdon

Newly Licensed:

Catherine Owen Bishop’s Castle Simon Hare Wenlock Team Stephen Treasure Ashford Carbonell

Hereford Archdeaconry Ludlow ArchdeaconryThe Deaneries A Abbeydore I BridgnorthB Bromyard J Clun ForestC & D Hereford K CondoverE Kington & Weobley L LudlowF Ledbury M PontesburyG Leominster N Telford Severn GorgeH Ross & Archenfield

N Telford Severn Gorge