Prayer for the Middle East

Posted on 11 March 202611 March 2026 by Laura Thomas

Global Prayer for the Middle East

A Global Prayer Gathering for Peace and Hope

For those who weren’t able to join live, the event is available on youtube, to join in with praying at any time

You are warmly invited to join a special prayer gathering with believers connected to churches in Iran, Lebanon, across the Middle East region, and around the world hosted by the Rt Rev Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani (Bishop of Chelmsford and a refugee from Iran) and Christian theologian and broadcaster Dr Krish Kandiah OBE, Director of the Sanctuary Foundation.

As violence and uncertainty affect many communities across the Middle East, we bring together church leaders and Christian voices from around the world to pray for peace, comfort and protection for all who are suffering.

Together we will listen, reflect on up-to-the-minute news and testimony and pray for those facing grave danger, displacement and loss, asking God to bring hope, justice and reconciliation in the midst of crisis.

Hosted by:
Rt Rev Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani – Bishop of Chelmsford, originally a refugee from Iran

Dr Krish Kandiah OBE – Director of Sanctuary Foundation

Lent 2026

Posted on 20 January 202627 February 2026 by Laura Thomas

Lent 2026

The Church of England’s theme for Lent 2026 is Draw Near: Life-giving habits for Lent.

This year’s resources have the theme of a rhythm of life– habits and patterns which help us grow as disciples of Jesus day by day. This is similar to the Rule of Life practices which we have been focusing on as a church over the past few years.

There is a booklet containing the reflections, which can be purchased online (Church House Publishing, Amazon, and other retailers). The Everyday Faith app will have reflections every Monday to Saturday throughout Lent, based on the booklet.

The 2026 Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book is, Dancing to the Heartbeat of God, with stories of discipleship from across the Anglican Communion, which complements the daily reflections focus on habits and practices for following Jesus

There is also a booklet for families and children. Produced in partnership with 40acts, this 40-day challenge is designed to help families and children to join in the Draw Near journey. As well as an act of generosity, each day also offers a simple Bible verse, reflection and prayer ideal for families, children, school and church groups to do together. Download a wallchart to help you keep track of the challenges you’ve completed. There are also paper copies available in the centre. We’ll be posting an act each day on our social media channels

Lent began with our Ash Wednesday Communion Service on 18 February at 7.30pm in the auditorium.

This lovely service included the opportunity to be signed with the cross in ash, as we began this season of reflection.

Easter

Posted on 20 January 20265 March 2026 by Laura Thomas

Easter 2026

Join in with all things Easter, as we reflect on the cross and celebrate in the hope of the resurrection.

Join us for a powerful, worship-filled evening as we gather around the table to retell the story of the Exodus and the Last Supper!

We’ll share a delicious lamb-based meal together, with dessert and drinks, as we worship, reflect on the meaning of the Last Supper, and take Communion as a community. There will also be the opportunity to take part in foot or hand washing — a meaningful expression of humility and love.

Tickets are £12 per person (to cover the cost of the event) and £6 for children under 16.

The evening begins at 7:30pm.

We’re so excited to share this special time together and can’t wait to see you there!

Click here to book

Join us on Good Friday morning at 10am where we will have 6 craft and activity stations helping us to journey through and reflect on the story of Easter.

At 11.00am we will meet in the church auditorium for a short time to bring our thoughts together through video, song and reading before enjoying Hot Cross Buns and refreshments at the end. Booking is not required, just come along!