DIOCESE OF CARLISLE - THE ACTING BISHOP OF CARLISLE'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2024

In his Christmas message, the Acting Bishop of Carlisle focuses on the hope we have in the birth of Jesus.
The Rt Rev Rob Saner-Haigh was filmed at Kendal Parish Church - where he previously served as vicar for 10 years - and which is currently hosting a Christmas tree festival.
Bishop Rob draws on Jesus’ birth into a normal family, adding: “God comes to real people, in a real place at a real time, because God loves real people, in real places at real times. It happened in Bethlehem then, but it could just as well have been Egremont, Torpenhow or Appleby now.
“God does amazing things in ordinary places with everyday people, because God doesn’t just love those who are sorted, calm and well turned out. God loves those who are a bit frayed around the edges, those who wonder whether anyone can help, and those who are determined to make it on their own.”
This year’s film also features an eight-strong children’s choir, led by Kendal Parish Church’s musical director Jonathan Bielby, singing Away In A Manger.
Bishop Rob concludes: “The nativity story is the proof of God’s love for us and the proof that he wants to bring new life, new hope and new meaning to anyone who is willing to let him in and risk it. May you know the joy and the hope of this good news this Christmas.”
Music: Kendal Parish Church Children's Choir