Christmas 2023

As we approach Christmas this year, I reflect back on a year that has seemed more violent and full of discord than the recent past. 

The war in Ukraine continues to rage, but added to the senseless bloodshed of Putin’s invasion, renewed conflict has flared up in the Middle East, with the divisions that has elicited on our own streets. 

I have been deeply concerned about the impact of these divisions on different communities, particularly the fears of the Jewish population in the UK. The face of anti-Semitism has reared its ugly head once again, and we must redouble our efforts to stamp it out of our society. 

War and conflict are a stark reminder of the bounty that peace gives us, and that we should never take it for granted. It is my sincere hope that, inspired by both previous generations and the message of Christ, we may live in more peaceful times in the year ahead. Even during the Great War, the Christmas truce provided some small respite from the horrendous conflict, even if it was not to last. 

It is noteworthy that the 2021 Census data was the first in our history to record that fewer than half the UK population identified as Christian, at 46.6%. In South Shropshire, it remains considerably higher, at 59.2% of local residents stating their religion as Christian. But even that figure is over 10% lower than at the previous Census in 2011. Interestingly over the past two years, weekly attendance at Church of England services has actually risen, but was still significantly lower than before the coronavirus pandemic. 

I mention this fact mostly to note the changing significance of Christianity in our society. Fewer of us attend church services on a regular basis compared to decades past, but at moments of national significance, faith remains a powerful motivator. From His Majesty the King’s coronation earlier this year, to the festival of Remembrance last month, we see the lasting impact of Christianity on our society. 

While fewer of us may identify as Christians, that need not mean the lessons of Christianity be lost on us. Such is the cultural impact of Christmas that even the agnostic and atheists among us can embrace much of the tradition. Universal virtues of compassion, charity and the importance of family and friends are at the centre of the festive season.  

For those who do wish to attend church services this Christmas, there are a great number taking place across South Shropshire. In addition to larger services in the towns, particularly in Ludlow and Bridgnorth, parish noticeboards and parish magazines are carrying details of services local to you, at which all are warmly welcome.  

My heart goes out to all those for whom this Christmas is disrupted by bloodshed and violence. I pray that 2024 will bring peace on earth and goodwill towards all men.

I wish you all a very Happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year. 

Philip