Bishop of Salisbury shares Christmas message for 2024
Bishop Stephen made his address from a local dairy farm
The Bishop of Salisbury has chosen a local dairy farm from which to share his annual Christmas message.
In his address, Bishop Stephen Lake - whose Diocese covers South Wiltshire, all of Dorset and the Channel Islands - is encouraging us to be generous and supportive of each other during the festive period.
He adds that it's important to remember that every day is special, not just Christmas Day.
Bishop Stephen used the farm as an example of that: "Here on the farm, 365 days a year is an important day because these beautiful creatures need caring for."
He continued: "It's very easy to take the day for granted at Christmas. It's one that we come together for. It's the time that we prepare the most for. It's, in many ways, the special day."
The Bishop concluded his address with a prayer, which read:
"Faithful God.
"Your world is full of fear. Hunger, cold and loneliness are all around. Your children are hurting.
"Into our darkness comes the child of Bethlehem. Jesus, the light who cannot be overcome. He is with us always. He speaks words of hope and words of truth. May His Spirit fill our hearts this Christmas and awaken us to Your purposes. Making us generous in giving, active in serving and alert to Your reign of justice, mercy and peace, which He calls us to bring to birth, here and now.
"Amen."