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Just before it was announced that I was to be the next Bishop of Manchester, I led the broadcast of the BBC's Daily Service from Didsbury. It was the opening day of the Commonwealth Games. Over the previous night I had stayed at a small hotel on the Wilmslow Road.
That morning, as I looked out of the window, I saw right opposite me the Commonwealth Games baton being handed from one runner to the next - on its journey to the opening ceremony. It was an exciting moment.
But for me it was also a powerful symbol, as I thought of the "gospel baton" I was soon to be handed for my mission as bishop here. One of the reasons for my present journey of "parish pilgrimages" is to encourage every Christian in every church to respond to God's call to pass on the baton of the gospel of the Risen Jesus to others.
On this website you will find stories from a variety of people across the Manchester Diocese trying to do that - examples of ordinary people finding strength and inspiration to do extraordinary things. And of churches witnessing to the "gospel marks" of faith, hope and love.
At its heart faith is a simple but profound trust in the person of Jesus Christ and his resurrection. But we don't have to feel we know all the answers to life's questions before
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By Nigel McCulloch
Bishop of Manchester
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In Manchester Cathedral, the Bishop of Manchester, Nigel McCulloch, was commissioned to begin a three year pilgrimage visiting the 346 parishes of Manchester Diocese.
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Bishop Nigel with the Baton
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we set out on our own journey of faith - or begin to share something of our journey with others.
When along the way we feel a bit bruised , or when worry verges on despair, it can help to remember that God is our hope and strength. We are called to be people who look for signs of hope and things to celebrate - and that can happen through experiencing God's presence within us through prayer.
Mother Teresa spoke of how small acts of kindness can seem as if they are like drops in the ocean, so tiny that they don't make any difference. But she went on to say that with every drop the ocean is that much greater.
Small actions can have an effect far beyond what we might imagine. When we show love to one another, and receive love, we share in the life of God.
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