Bishop Philip writes…
There was a great response to my recent appeal for men to come forward who might be considering a vocation to the priesthood. Over 50 men were in touch and almost half of them have expressed a strong desire to follow up by meeting one to one with me or the Vocations Director to discuss next steps and the possibilities going forward. I thank our Vocations team, Fr. Chris Heaps and Canon John Cooke for their work and I thank all the priests of the Diocese for the inspiring example and encouragement they give. But I especially thank all of you for your prayer for this most important intention. However, we are now at a crucial point. So, I ask you again, please continue your prayers for priestly vocations, that the brave and generous men who turned out last Sunday to meet with me will be filled with the Holy Spirit and hear the summons of the Lord, leading them into the vocation to which He is calling them.
Meanwhile, welcome to this first e-News of 2026, for Tuesday 6th January. I wish you and every member of the Diocese a very Happy New Year with God’s blessings. Today, of course, is the wonderful Feast of the Epiphany – a Holy Day of Obligation and a beautiful day to participate in the Mass. Have a great day today! As I am away over the weekend, there will be no e-News next Tuesday, the next edition being in two weeks’ time on 20th January. Until then, may God bless you with His love.
With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,
In Corde Iesu
+Philip
Bishop of Portsmouth
[Image: Lourry Legarde]
