The Open Episcopal Church

The Communion of the Open Episcopal Church in the Province of the United Kingdom and Ireland

A member of the International Council of Community Churches & the World Council of Churches

News

The Open Episcopal Church has been part of the International Council of Community Churches since 2008 and through the ICCC, is a member of the World Council of Churches

Top Stories

  • REVD SIMON WHITTAKER INVITED TO JUDGE THE SCHOOL'S EASTER EGG COMPETITION
    In Cambridge
    A fine priest respected in his community
  • THE BBC COVER THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Raising money for water for a fifth village in the Gambia and the Royal Marsden
    See the interview here
  • REVD DEBRA FLINT'S KEYNOTE ARTICLE FOR CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY'S INSTITUTE OF THEOLOGY EVENT
    Her new book, 'No Place for a Woman' will be published in March by Lantern Publishing and Media
    The event
    and then
    Revd Flint's article
  • REVD BRENDAN COPLEY ORDAINED A PRIEST
    In London
    Supported by friends from Mexico, Ireland and Spain.
  • REVD MOONEY TALKS TO CHURCHES TOGETHER
    In Kings Lynn
    As Chaplain of the Tapping House Hospice -Read the article here
  • REVD MCMAHON ORDAINED A PRIEST
    In London
    A service of joy and in celebration of his deep compassion.
  • REVD ANTHONY MCMAHON ORDAINED A DEACON
    Founder of the John Paul Retreat Centre for the bereaved.
    A haven to find solace and healing See it here
  • REVD MOONEY IS ADMITTED AS A MEMBER OF THE UKBHC
    The U.K. Board of Health Care Chaplains
    In his role as Chaplain of Norfolk Hospice
  • REVD DEBRA FLINT IS APPOINTED ASSISTANT CHAPLAIN
    At her local NHS hospital
    Our curch has a vision to love and serve all people.
  • WE WELCOME TWO NEW ORDINANDS
    From Tenerife and Kenya
    Our small church with a big heart is growing
  • REVD MICHAEL SINGER IS WELCOMED AS AN OEC PRIEST
    Serving St John's
    And the community of Pittsburgh
  • REVD BRENDAN MOONEY IS ORDAINED PRIEST
    In Welling
    Recently appointed lead chaplain at the Hospice
  • REVD CARLOS GONZALEZ IS ORDAINED
    In Welling
    Having travelled from Madrid, to spread the Gospel of Love in Spain, as our Church grows.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP RELEASES A PRAYER GIVING THANKS FOR THE LIFE OF THE QUEEN
    At this time of national and international mourning.
    Read it here

  • THE OEC RECOGNISED IN IRELAND AND ITS PRIESTS LICENSED TO MARRY
    A significant development
    As our priests have also been licensed to marry in Scotland. Read about it here

  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S RADICAL NEW VERSION OF THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER IS PUBLISHED IN SPAIN
    Translated by Revd Mario Santos
    See it here

  • OUR INCLUSIVE CHURCH WELCOMED IN SCOTLAND
    Revd Flint's ministry grows
    Read here and Read here

  • THE OEC IN SPAIN GROWS
    New members join and Revd Santos broadcasts
    See the broadcast here
    See the service of admission here

  • REVD JESUS PINYA IS ORDAINED
    In Welling
    Having travelled from Barcelona, to spread the Gospel of Love in Spain, as our Church grows.
  • THE OEC BUILDS NEW BRIDGES OF LOVE
    Friendship with the Open Borders Apostolic Community
    See it here. And agreements with other ecumenical bodies - see our Ecumenical page.

  • REVD DEBRA FLINT ORDAINED A DEACON
    A lifetime of caring work and an author
    Debra's second book explores the spiritual and political abuse of women in the Church.
  • THE OEC IN SPAIN LAUNCHES ITS FACEBOOK PAGE
    The message of God's Love spreads
    See it here

  • REVD SANTOS APPOINTED SECRETARY OF ECUMENICAL BODY
    The Secretary of Pastoralia and Social Media for the Communion of Catholic and Apostolic Churches.
    Read about it here

  • REVD GOODE IS ORDAINED A PRIEST IN ELY
    Supported by family and friends
    OEC clergy travelled from Cornwall and London in support.
  • The OEC is welcomed into the Communion of Catholic and Apostolic Churches.
    In Spain and South America
    Our loving church spreads its message of inclusive love.
  • Revd Tim Hodge leads the funeral for Jethro
    In Truro Cathedral
    Jethro, the brilliant Cornish Comedian who brought so much laughter to people's lives.Watch it here
  • REVD RAMSEY IS APPOINTED A FULL TIME CHAPLAIN
    Working in a Hospice
    Bringing unconditional love to all.
  • THE BBC COVERS OUR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Providing water for life in the Gambia, and happiness to the community
    Watch it here

  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES A RADICAL NEW VERSION OF THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER
    Part of the Safe Religion Series
    Including all the services for church and clergy.Find it here.
  • THE TIMES AND MEDIA FEATURE THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Providing clean water for Gambian villages.
    This year providing a fourth village with running fresh water.
  • SPAIN WELCOMES THE OEC OFFICIALLY
    The OEC is formally registered.
    The OEC in Spain is growing and ordinands are applying.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES A LOVING AND INCLUSIVE VERSION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT
    THE FIRST SAFE BIBLE SERIES
    A version for all.Find it here.
  • REVD MARCO MERINERO IS ORDAINED
    In Welling
    Having travelled from Madrid, to spread the Gospel of Love in Spain
  • OUR INCLUSIVE CHURCH COVERED BY THE INDEPENDENT
    A loving church
    Read it here.
  • REVD SEAMUS ANDERSON IS ORDAINED
    In Belfast
    Supported by family, friends and local clergy.
  • REVD BRENDAN MOONEY IS ORDAINED A DEACON
    At the Chapel of St Francis, Welling
    Revd Mooney, a psychotherapist and registered social worker, will be the deacon leading ministry from the Parish of our Lady of Compassion, Huntingdon.
  • NEW SPANISH MEMBERS ARE ADMITTED
    Into the OEC
    Watch it here.
  • THE OEC IS OFFICIALLY REGISTERED IN SPAIN
    Registered as the Apostolic Mission of the OEC
    The registration documents submitted by Revd Santos have been approved and an active congregation has begun.
  • REVD MARIO SANTOS
    Invited to address the Pais Narrado community of South America
    Revd Santos delivered a paper on the inclusive and unconditionally loving message and pratice of the Open Episcopal Church.
  • REVD DAVID GOODE IS ORDAINED A DEACON
    At the Chapel of St Francis, Welling
    Revd Goode, Fellow and Praelector, Wolfson College, Cambridge, was ordained as a deacon for ministry in the parish of the Saints of the Fens.
  • OUT OF 22,500 CHURCH BUILDINGS THERE ARE ONLY 267 THAT PROVIDE EQUAL MARRIAGE - OURS IS ONE OF THEM
    Revd Damien Nooney has registered his chapel
    The parish of Our Lady of Salmestone and St Francis of Assissi offers a welcome to every couple to celebrate their love and solemnise their marriage.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES A HISTORY OF THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
    Including the Canons
    Our small Church with a big heart and a loving, inclusive vision.Find it here.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES AN UPDATED VERSION OF HIS 95 THESES
    Nailed to Canterbury Cathedral in 1999
    The original text is included in the "History of the Open Episcopal Church" Find the updated version here.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES A NEW INCLUSIVE VERSION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT - GALATIANS TO JUDE
    For everyone
    A loving, inclusive and accessible version for all.Find it here.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP PUBLISHES A NEW INCLUSIVE VERSION OF THE PSALMS AND ROMANS AND CORINTHIANS
    For everyone
    A loving, inclusive and accessible version for all.Find the Psalms here. and
    Find Romans and Corinthians here
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS RAISE 12,000 POUNDS
    Water for a third village
    For Kusamai in the Gambia
  • REVD SIMON'S HOMELESS OUTREACH
    30 bags of donated clothing
    Reaching out to help, support and love the homeless.
  • THE GUARDIAN FEATURE THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    For Water for Africa
    Having supplied two villages with clean water, now a third!
  • REVD MARIO SANTOS IS ORDAINED A PRIEST
    In Chislehurst
    Family and friends supported his ordination. All Covid rules observed. Masks off and breaths held just momentarily for the photograph.
  • OUR SECOND VILLAGE COMPLETE WITH LIFE GIVING WATER
    Dobong
    Thank you to all who made this dream, this miracle come about.
  • THE WATER TOWER COMPLETE AND WATER FLOWING
    Dobong
    We have almost finished providing this second Gambian village with fresh running water.
  • REVD MICHAEL'S LOCK DOWN PASTY OUTREACH
    Love in action
    Revd David Michael, of St Josephs Mission in Cornwall, delivered eighty Cornish Pasties free to his local community. Those self-isolating, over 70, got the oven fresh pasty delivered to their door ready for lunch. The warm weather meant Social distancing was a lot easier. One recipient was a lady over 100 yrs old who still lives at home and her son who is 79 got one delivered to his house too.
  • OUR SECOND GAMBIAN VILLAGE RISES TOO
    Dobong
    Bore hole dug, pump/solar panels installed/livestock drinking trough built,standpipes laid,fresh water flowing and water tower being built.
  • THE GAMBIAN VILLAGE WE SUPPORTED RISES AT EASTER
    Water leading to Life
    The village has now fenced their crop growing area and extra standpipes have been installed.
  • AN INCLUSIVE EASTER DAY CELEBRATION
    On Zoom
    Watch it here.
  • REVD BAXTER BUILDS THE COMMUNITY OF ALL SAINTS
    In Thailand
    The parish gave gifts to the Youth Charity Foundation. "All Saints seeks to be a church that is welcome to all, whether rich or poor, Thai or farang, black or white, gay, lesbian, transgender, or straight, old or young, Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, or Jew. We aim to declare the inclusive love of Jesus Christ, and demonstrate his radical call to discipleship in our lives."
  • REVD MICHAEL'S CHRISTMAS LUNCH
    And outreach
    Food after the lunch was taken out to the homeless.
  • REVD WHITTAKER CARES FOR THE HOMELESS
    Clothes and toiletries collected
    30 dustbin bags full of clothes and other essential items distributed.
  • REVD MICHAEL BAPTISES AT ADVENT
    Now preparing for a special Christmas Day lunch
    Revd Michael is preparing to cook and host Christmas Dinner for 40 lonely and vulnerable people.
  • SKY NEWS FEATURES THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Nearly 50,000 pounds raised over the years
    12,000 pounds last year. Watch it here.
  • THE DAILY TELEGRAPH FEATURES THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Raising funds for the Gambia
    Thousands of people are drawn to them.
  • THE ARCHBISHOPS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS APPEAL GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY THE CLERGY OF THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH PROVIDES CLEAN WATER TO TIABA NYASS
    In The Gambia
    Now 890 villagers, including over 400 children have access to fresh, clean, life-giving water, thanks to the generosity of so many members of the public and the clergy of the Open Episcopal Church.
  • REVD LEE SPRAGG IS ORDAINED A PRIEST
    In London
    Surrounded by family and friends, in an inclusive celebration of Communion and Ordination.
  • REVD MICHAEL ARRANGES COMMUNITY LUNCHES
    To combat loneliness
    St Josephs Mission in St Austell, Cornwall has recently reached out to two communities, Rescorla and Treverbyn and offered a free lunch. The events were free although there was a raffle and donations invited to benefit the local hospice. St Josephs Mission is committed to look for practical ways to reach out beyond walls and share Christs love.
  • ORDINAND TRAVELS FROM OREGON, U.S.A. TO BE ORDAINED PRIEST
    Journeying with his wife and brother
    Revd Rick Ramsey, a hospital chaplain and electronics engineer was ordained at the Chapel of St Francis.
  • THE WATER PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION
    The last stages in Tiaba Nyass
    The bore hole has been drilled, the water tower constructed, the trenches dug and pipes laid. Now the stand pipes are being installed.
  • REVD FIONA FIDGIN ORDAINED A PRIEST
    By the bishop of Northumbria, THe Rt Revd Lesley Dennis
    Held at the Avenue Methodist Church in Middlesborough, in the presence of family and friends,and clerics from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmmark and the Church of England.
  • THE WATER PLATFORM IN TIABA NYASS BEING BUILT
    From the Christmas Lights Appeal
    The loving outreach of the Open Episcopal Church and the sacrificial giving of the clergy and the public now promises clean water to the thirsty.
  • REVD SIMON WHITTAKER BAPTISES
    In the home
    The sacrament, touching people's homes and hearts brings smiles and hope.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S LIFE
    Caught on two films

    Part One - HERE

    Part Two - HERE

  • THE VILLAGERS DIG THE TRENCHES WEARING FLIP FLOPS
    Our Gambia Water project is underway
    The bore holes have been drilled, now trenches are being dug by the villagers for the water pipes. Next the water towers must be erected and the solar panels fitted, all thanks to the generosity of the clerics of the Open Episcopal Church and members of the public.
  • REVD DAMIEN NOONEY BAPTISES
    In the Chapel of Salmestone Grange
    The Open Episcopal Church welcomes all to be baptised.
  • REVD LEE SPRAGG ORDAINED DEACON
    in the Chapel of St Francis, Welling
    Revd Spragg will minister within the Parish of the Bright Morning Star, supporting City of London co-workers.
  • REVD MAJOR SULLIVAN IS BUILDING ECUMENICAL BRIDGES
    Across 5 different denominations
    Ministering in the United States as part of the Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary, and teaching, preaching, counselling and chaplaincy work.
  • REVD SHERIDAN LAUNCHES PARISH NEWSLETTER
    St Fursey's
    With all his experience as a town councillor Revd Sheridan reaches out into his community.
  • WORK BEGINS TO BRING WATER TO TIABA NYASS
    Thanks to the generosity and commitment of members of the Open Episcopal Church
    A desperately needed provision as the village hand pump failed a few weeks back.
  • NOW TWENTY THREE THOUSAND, FIVE HUNDRED POUNDS HAS BEEN RAISED TO PROVIDE TWO VILLAGES WITH CLEAN WATER AND WE ARE FUND RAISING FOR A THIRD VILLAGE
    The small church with a very large heart
    65% of this has been donated generously by the clergy of the Open Episcopal Church. Now 1,200 children and their families will have access to clean, running water near their homes. Please help us by donating here.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP HAS RAISED TWELVE THOUSAND POUNDS FOR THE GAMBIA WATER PROJECT
    The Christmas lights have brought in four times the most they ever have done before
    Over a quarter of this was donated generously by the clergy of the Open Episcopal Church. Now 500 children and their families will have access to clean, running water near their homes.
  • REVD FIONA FIDGIN ORDAINED DEACON
    Revd Fidgin was ordained in the Chapel of St Francis, Welling
    Fiona is an innovator in the fields of youth work, liturgy and worship and new ways of being church. and was the U.K.'s first Veriditas trained Labyrinth facilitator.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH HELPING PROVIDE CLEAN WATER FOR OVER A THOUSAND CHILDREN
    2390 villagers in the Gambia will be given access to clean, accessible and reliable water
    The Archbishop travelled to the Gambia in November to visit two villages and two schools. He took out supplies to distribute among the villagers and schools and planned with Water For Africa staff to sink two deep bore holes and fit them with solar powered water pumps.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS SUPPORTING THE PROVISION OF A DEEP BORE HOLE SOLAR POWERED WATER PUMP FOR A GAMBIAN VILLAGE
    The Archbishop will be travelling to the Gambia in November
    Working with Water For Africa. Our hope is to provide a deep bore hole solar powered water pump for a new village each year. Communities around the country are becoming involved providing funds and items for distribution. Welling Football Club has donated kit, clothes and pens.
  • REVD DAVID MICHAEL JOINS THE CHURCH
    Incardinated and licensed for ministry
    Revd David Michael, a former anglican priest, who has ministered independently for many years, was incardinated and licensed into the Open Episcopal Church.
  • THE OEC'S OUTREACH AND CARING MINISTRY
    At the Elgin Close Resource Centre
    Revd Devaney takes regular services at her local community centre. Revd Nooney visited to give his support
  • THE ARCHBISHOP INVITED TO DEBATE WITH RABBI SCHOCHET AND IMAM MOGRA
    Chaired by TV personality, broadcaster and journalist, Vanessa Feltz
    The Young Presidents Organisation, Gold Section, invited the Archbishop to share his ideas about the role of religion in the 21st Century, in discussion with Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet, the Rabbi of Mill Hill Synagogue, and described by the Jewish Chronicle as one of the most outspoken rabbis in the world and Imam Ibrahim Mogra, The Assistant Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britian and the recipient of the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Inter Faith Co-operation by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The discussion was chaired by Vanessa Feltz and took place at 1, Marylebone, formerly Holy Trinity Church, designed by Sir John Soane and now a prestigious London venue.
  • A MOUNTAIN TOP WEDDING
    Revd Baxter builds a thriving community in Thailand
    Revd Iain Baxter's ministry is bearing great fruit, invited to lead the Remembrance Day Service at the Foreign Cemetery, attended by the Australian, Portuguese and American Consuls, with the church community growing and being offered land upon which to build a church.
  • THE REVD MAJOR JAMES SULLIVAN ORDAINED PRIEST
    In the Chapel of St Francis
    Revd Major Sullivan works with the Civil Air Patrol in the United States, the United States Air Force Auxiliary, and Chaplains Corps Character Development Instructor. He voyaged across the Atlantic by liner, joined by other dear friends who flew from New York and drove from Cardiff, and supporting OEC clergy. James had had forged a challenge medal to commemorate this momemtous day of his priesting which he presdented to all attending. It was a moving service and strengthens our presence and inclusive, unconditionally loving approach to ministry in the U.S.
  • REVD WHITTAKER CHOSEN TO LEAD THE SERVICE FOR ROYAL NAVY VETERAN
    Having no living relatives, many attended out of respect.
    The Cambridge News covered the story.Read the report.'
  • THE CHURCH GROWS
    Incardinations and Confirmation
    Two new priests were incardinated into our church from the Anglican church and from an independent Catholic jurisdiction and a young man was confirmed in a joyful celebration.
  • REVD DAW BEGINS ST GEMMAS
    For The Community With Special Needs
    Working with a reader in the Anglican Church, Nick has begun this imaginative, thoughtful initiative, to serve those who are often misunderstood and appreciate loving ministry.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP LEADS THE SERVICE FOR PAUL ALCOCK
    The Premier League Referee
    Hundreds attended the service including footballers, civic leaders, military leaders and the Chief Superintendent of Maidstone and district. Read the report of the service.'
  • REVD WHITTAKER INVITED TO LEAD WORSHIP
    At the United Reformed Church
    The elders extended the invitation, were delighted at Simon's ministry and have booked him again.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP IS ASKED TO CONDUCT THE FUNERAL OF JOSEPH NASCIMENTO
    At Worthing
    Joseph Nascimento worked in an exemplary manner at the Middle Temple for 22 years. The funeral was well attended, an expression of the great esteem in which Mr Nascimento was held. Tributes said he brought sunshine into the lives of others and had that rare talent of making others feel special and at home. The mourners included Sir Paul Jenkins QC (Hon), the former Head of the Government Legal Department and Permanent Secretary to the Attorney General from 2006 to 2014, Marilynne Morgan CB, former solicitor to the Departments for Work and Pensions and of Health and the Office of National Statistics, and Director-General of the Law and Special Policy Group DWP, John Leslie, Master, Queens Bench Division, High Court of Justice, since 1996 (Deputy Senior Master, then Acting Senior Master and Queens Remembrancer, 2013 to 14) and Sir Ian Kennedy, who was appointed to chair the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority in 2009.It was very moving that a man, born in Lisbon, and arriving in this country aged 11, not speaking a word of English, could have touched so many hearts, even those in high positions in society.
  • CONFIRMATION
    Marco Hyde affirms his commitment to Christ
    His journey into the Open Episcopal Church began with Post the Host. He travelled from Sheffield today for his Confirmation.
  • THE REVD DR ANDREW MISIURA ORDAINED DEACON
    In the Chapel of St Francis
    Revd Dr Misiura is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Gloucestershire and the Chair of the University and College Union. He was joined by family and friends.
  • THE OEC'S HARVEST OF PUBLIC MINISTRY
    OEC clerics take stock of their annual ministry.
    Our church has provided thousands of services for tens of thousands of members of the public over this last year, including funerals, weddings, baptisms, hospital and prison ministry, uniformed group chaplaincies, terminal care, educational outreach, spiritual retreats, services of the Mass, ministry to the elderly, ordinations and confirmations, pastoral care and counselling, church planting and social and charitable work and this is not exhaustive. A wonderful fruitful year of loving, caring, inclusive and unconditionally loving ministry.
  • THE OEC CELEBRATED THE LIFE OF ALFRED JOHN SMITH M.B.E. who served 5 Prime Ministers as the Downing Street Facilities Manager, working in Whitehall for over 40 years.
    The Archbishop was asked to lead the funeral, wearing a London Irish Rugby shirt, at the request of the family.
    He began the service by opening a can of Alfie's favourite, a Guinness! Alfie was awarded his M.B.E. in 2016, for 'Services to No 10 Downing Street.'
  • THE OEC LEADS THE WAY IN OFFERING A MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION
    A garden baptism unites French Roman Catholics and Protestants from Northern Ireland.
    The Archbishop travelled to Nice to conduct the service.
  • THE REVD CONNIE FAYE MUDORE ORDAINED PRIEST
    To minister in Chiang Mai, Thailand
    Revd Mudore, has given her life in public service. She was a mental health volunteer for the American Red Cross, involved with Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Jeanne and the World Trade Centre. She has conducted outreach to improve female literacy in rural Nepal. She has won numerous awards and is a prolific and published writer. She has worked among the Shan refugees from Myanmar. Her main role has been as an educator and counsellor. Revd Mudore was ordained in the chapel of St Francis, Welling but for the entire two hour service we linked via Skype to her congregation in Chiang Mai. Our priest in Chiang Mai, Revd Iain Baxter took part in the service, as did the congregation.
  • THE ICCC STATEMENT OF CONCERN
    Affirmed by our Council of Bishops
    No nationalties only one humanity.

    STATEMENT OF CONCERN

    When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 19: 33-34

    The International Council of Community Churches was formed in 1950 to champion justice and reconciliation as well as Christian unity. We recognize the need for realistic regulations among and within nations that support their need for public safety. We cannot and do not give our support to national regulations that automatically exclude or discriminate against people who are seeking a place of sanctuary because of their national origin, race, religious faith or other arbitrary markers. Such classifications deny the fact that God has created all people, and in so doing encourage bigotry and hatred while doing nothing to increase public safety.

    We are saddened by the numerous conflicts that exist around this small planet, and we are further saddened that the violence and destruction of conflict have displaced large numbers of those who under God are our sisters and brothers. Our duty and privilege as followers of Him who was exiled as an infant to a foreign land, is to offer hospitality and refuge to those who have been made homeless. We are compelled by faith and love to be among those to whom our Lord will say at the last day,

    I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. Matthew 25: 35-40

    We call upon all nations to turn away from the counsels of fear, and to show mercy to those who are in an hour of desperate need.

  • THE REVD PETRONELLA DEVANEY ORDAINED PRIEST
    In the Unitarian Church, Kensington
    Family and friends gathered.
  • THE REVD PETRONELLA DEVANEY ORDAINED DEACON
    In the Chapel of St Francis
    Her priesting is planned for November.
  • REVD PAUL HINDS INCARDINATED INTO THE CHURCH
    At Harworth and Bircotes Town Hall
    In the presence of the Chair of Bassetlaw District Council, Councillor Gywnneth Jones.
  • CHANNEL 4 FEATURES THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    Raising money for Save the Children. Watch the documentary for the next 28 days ( until near the end of January ) here
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH OPENS IN BRAZIL
    The message of inclusive love spreads.
    The church is growing.
  • REVD SIMON WHITTAKER INTERVIEWED AT REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE
    Radio Cambridge 105
    The moving personal tribute can be viewed here
  • REVD RODNEY COFFIN ORDAINED DEACON
    In the presence of the Mayor and the Mayoress of Bournemouth
    Held at the T.S Phoebe Sea Cadets Hall. The service was supported by local clergy, dignitaries and enthusiastic sea cadets.
  • REVD RIGBY'S ORDINATION VIDEO
    Prestbury United Reformed Church
    A service blessed by children, hope, love and life. Watch extracts from the service here
  • REVD WHITTAKER AND THE ARCHBISHOP LEAD THE FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION'S CAMBRIDGE BRANCH
    In the presence of the Mayor, the Mayoress and the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire.
    At the Bishop Woodford Centre in Ely
  • REVD BAXTER WITH BISHOP WILSON
    At St James, West Hampstead
    Our Revd Baxter was invited by Father Andrew Foreshaw-Cain to take part in the patronal festival of the church.
  • REVD ALEX RIGBY ORDAINED PRIEST
    In Cheltenham
    A lively service, blessed by the children playing happily on the carpet, and enhanced by a dance, a reading and the distribution of Holy Communion involving Alex's children. The ordination took place at Prestbury United Reformed Church.
  • ORDINATIONS IN CHELTENHAM AND BOURNEMOUTH
    A busy autumn
    A healthy stream of ordinands are presenting themselves. The church is growing.
  • REVD SARAH LAWSON APPOINTED ACTS CONVENOR
    Perth
    Revd Lawson, as a priest of the Open Episcopal Church, has been voted in as the convenor of the Perth Action of Churches Together in Scotland.
  • THE MAYOR ATTENDS REVD NOONEY'S ORDINATION
    Salmestone Grange, Margate
    The Mayor of Margate, Councillor Robin Edwards and the bearer of the Mayoral Mace, Mr Clifford East, graced the ceremony, that was attended by family and friends.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP CONDUCTS A BAPTISM AT THE STADIUM OF LIGHT
    An inclusive and love filled ceremony
    Further details here
  • OUR PRIEST IN CHIANG MAI
    Revd Iain Baxter is building a thriving community
    Over 50 members gathered together in the parish of All Saints.
  • THREE ORDINATIONS
    A joint ordination
    Welcome to Revd Alex Rigby ordained Deacon and Revd Natasha Morgan and Revd Hugh Quigley, ordained priests, at the chapel of St Francis, Welling.
  • THE MAYOR OF CAMBRIDGE'S INVITATION
    Revd Whittaker, RNA Chaplain, arranges a significant occasion
    On the Royal Naval Association's fortieth anniversary, the members of the Cambridge Branch were invited by Mrs Gerri Bird, the City Mayor of Cambridge to the Mayor's Parlour and Council Chambers
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S PEACE BUS, 1987
    An epic journey across Europe.
    Further details here
  • THE ARCHBISHOP RAISES MONEY FOR SAVE THE CHILDREN
    Thousands visit the lights
    This year, they raised 2049 pounds for the charity. A thank you from Save the Children here
  • ARCHBISHOP INTERVIEWED ON TALK NOW RADIO
    About his recent book - 'That Old Devil Called God Again'
    Further details here
  • ARCHBISHOP INVITED TO SPEAK IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS
    On the subject: Religious Power: Risk and Regulation
    Baroness Cox opened the debate, followed by Danny Sullivan, National Chair of the Catholic Safeguarding Commission for England and Wales, David Greenwood, an award winning solicitor specialising in child abuse claims, Sheikh Dr Muhammad Al-Hussaini, Fellow in Islamic Studies at the Westminster Institute, Our Archbishop, followed by Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain MBE, Rabbi of the Maidenhead Synagogue and PT Satish Sharma, co-Chair of the Hindu Muslim Forum. Full details are available here
  • ARCHBISHOP INTERVIEWED ON PREMIER CHRISTIAN RADIO
    Interviewed by Revd Cindy Kent, Anglican Priest in Charge of the parish church of St John the Apostle, Whetstone.
    The interview covered Jonathan's ministry, writing and the Open Episcopal Church.
  • REVD SIMON WHITTAKER ORDAINED AS A PRIEST
    Ely
    Family and friends gathered on a glorious sun blessed day.
  • ARCHBISHOP'S BOOK AVAILABLE TO ORDER
    That Old Devil Called God Again
    Order here
  • ARCHBISHOP QUELLS FEARS OVER SUPER MOON ARMAGEDDON
    The Daily Express
    Report here
  • NATASHA ORDAINED DEACON
    At Narborough Hall
    At a service that spanned both the woodland and the barn!
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S BOOK TO BE PUBLISHED ON AUGUST 29TH
    That Old Devil Called God Again
    Read all about it here
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S COUNCIL MEETS
    New ideas for growth
    New approach, new presentation, new style - the Open Episcopal Church comes of age with a greater self confidence and assurance about its distinctive identity.
  • THREE MORE ORDINANDS
    The church is growing
    Applications from the U.K. and abroad
  • THE ARCHBISHOP BLOGS AND FACEBOOKS
    20,000 post views and the maximum 5000 friends
    Follow him on Facebook at Bishop Blake and on his blog
  • SHOT AT DAWN
    Revd Morgan's imaginative initiative with the Society of Peace
    Read about the event in Coventry
  • WELCOME TO REVD DR HUGH QUIGLEY
    Northern Ireland
    Back with us after his sabbatical
  • ANOTHER NEW DEACON FOR THE CHURCH
    Revd Simon Whittaker
    Simon, was ordained a deacon in the Chapel of St Francis, Welling.
  • A NEW DEACON FOR THE CHURCH
    Revd Mike Sheridan
    Mike, a councillor, was ordained a deacon in the Chapel of St Francis, Welling.
  • OUR BISHOP LESLEY GRADUATES AGAIN!
    Awarded in Durham Cathedral
    Bishop Lesley Dennis, already a qualified teacher, graduates also with an Honours Degree in Ministry and Theology
  • THE ARCHBISHOP'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS RAISE BUMPER AMOUNT
    The best year ever
    The lights raised 2156 pounds for SAVE THE CHILDREN
  • VIGIL HELD IN SWAFFHAM
    Revd Morgan holds special public memorial
    Candles are lit at Christmas in memory of departed loved ones. Watch the service
  • FOUR OF THE ARCHBISHOP'S BOOKS ARE PUBLISHED WITH A FIFTH ON THE WAY
    The message of the first is more relevant than ever
    FOR GOD'S SAKE DON'T GO TO CHURCH as well as a new book of HOPES AND ASPIRATIONS as well as BE AN AWESOME DAD as well as a book about his father THE DIARY OF A PRISONER OF WAR
  • OUR PROVINCE IN THE UNITED STATES LAUNCHES WEB SITE
    The Province grows
    U.S. Web Site
  • OUR FIRST CLERIC IN GERMANY ORDAINED
    Revd Martina Hajjam
    Bishop Hamilton ordains Martina as the Open Episcopal Church launches in Germany
  • PUBLICATION DATE OF ARCHBISHOP'S BOOK TO BE ANNOUNCED
    Controversial - Inspiring
    The Archbishop lays siege to religious humbug again following his first book 'For God's Sake Don't Go To Church'
  • REVD DR GILLIAN PEARCE ORDAINED
    Durham
    The Archbishop accompanied by the Bishop of Northumbria, clerics from Scotland and family and friends gathered for the ordination.
  • OUR BISHOP OF SCOTLAND FLIES TO AMERICA
    Bishop Helen Hamilton is to hold the first Open Episcopal Church Congress in the United States.
    She will ordain additional clerics during the visit.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP INVITED TO DOWNING STREET
    On the day equal marriage became law
    Archbishop Blake, the first cleric to advertise his willingness to provide gay marriages in the UK in 1994 and who subsequently conducted hundreds of gay marriages across the country, including on Richard and Judy's prime time morning TV show on February 14th 2001,and who co-founded the Open Episcopal Church that offers the sacrament of marriage equally to all couples, is invited by the Prime Minister to a special celebratory reception at Downing Street.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP LEADS NIGHTLY SERVICE
    Clerics are livestreaming
    Each night at 11 p.m. BST the Archbishop leads a short reflection entitled 'Love's prayer at the end of the day'. On a Sunday he leads a shared meal entitled 'Love's banquet at the end of the day'. The broadcasts can be watched live or at any time

    HERE

    and announces other services via his Twitter at bishopjonathan. The services are fully inclusive. Bishop Hamilton livestreams also
    HERE
    and announces her services via her Twitter at HelentheRev.
  • VIDEO OF THE CONSECRATION
    Extracts
  • THE BISHOP OF NORTHUMBRIA CONSECRATED
    Congress 2013
    Bishop Lesley Dennis was consecrated at our largest Church Congress that also witnessed the ordination of our first American priest on Holy Island, Revd Storrs-Kostakis as well as Revd Lawson and Revd Britton.
  • ARCHBISHOP IN CAIRO
    At St Andrew's Church
    Revd Iain Baxter was ordained a Priest on May 24th to serve in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH GOES INTERNATIONAL
    Our first German ordinand
    Archbishop Blake flies to Egypt next week to ordain. Bishop Hamilton flies to America in September to ordain. This week we have welcomed our first ordinand from Germany.
  • MEMBER CHURCH CAMPAIGNS FOR THERAPEUTIC ABORTION
    On behalf of a sick woman, Beatrice.
    Revd Martin Velasquez joins with other churches to call for reform. Read more.
  • RISE IN VOCATIONAL APPLICATIONS
    From the UK and overseas
    The bishops are handling over 10 fresh applications for ordination within the Church.
  • NEW MEMBER CHURCHES WELCOMED
    El Salvador and Argentina
    The Open Episcopal Church welcomes into Communion the Evangelical Protestant Church of El Salvador and the St Albans Episcopal Church in Buenos Aries.
  • REVD TIM HODGES PRESENTS KITE AWARD
    Holcombe Rogus
    13 year old Sam Girdler receives an Open Episcopal Church KITE Award for his remarkable work, charity fund raising, residential home visiting and his wider caring work for people of all ages in his community.
  • BISHOP HARSTAD-SMITH PRESENTS KITE AWARD
    Pen y Dre High School, Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
    Awarded to Ben Jones, for his exceptional work in the community working with the charity, Linking Hands Across The World,especially for his work with Equinisweni school, and the Tumelo home in South Africa.
  • OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN ARGENTINA
    A 45 member downtown congregation
    An inclusive community in the heart of Buenos Aries. View their facebook page
  • HUFFINGTON POST PUBLISHES STATIONS OF THE CROSS BY REVD KOSTAKIS
    U.S.A
    Read them here
  • ARCHBISHOP INTERVIEWED ON BBC WORLD NEWS ON NIGHT OF HISTORIC VOTE IN OVERWHELMING SUPPORT OF EQUAL MARRIAGE
    With Zeinab Badawi
    Archbishop Blake having campaigned for equal marriage since 1994 and the Open Episcopal Church since 2001 was asked to comment on this milestone towards a vital social change. Two further interviews with the Archbishop were broadcast on World News which has a weekly global audience of 239 million and is broadcast in over 200 countries. The Open Episcopal Church is at the forefront of working towards an inclusive and equal society. Watch extracts from the U.K. broadcast opposite.
  • REVD MORGAN LAUNCHES CLERGY SUPPORT
    New Web Site 'When I needed a neighbour'
    For clerics of all denominations who are in distress.
    Further details
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN NORTH AMERICA
    Ordination in June
    Revd Storrs-Kostakis will fly in to attend the church Congress
  • BISHOP OF SCOTLAND LAUNCHES FIRST SANCTUARY
    The Sanctuaries of the Spring are multi-faith ecumenical centres for healing and hospitality
    Further details
  • BERWICK ADVERTISER ANNOUNCES FORTHCOMING CONSECRATION
    'Female bishop to follow in saint's footsteps.'
    Read the article
  • ORDINAND AMANDA MCARDLE ACCEPTED AS VOLUNTEER WARD CHAPLAIN
    Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford.
    Amanda McArdle is studying currently for a Foundation degree in Healthcare Chaplaincy at St Mary's University College in Middlesex.
  • REVD LAWRENCE APPOINTED TO POLICE AND COUNTY PANELS
    Diversity Issues
    Advising on Council Agency and Police policies in Dorset
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS TO CONSECRATE A BISHOP FOR NORTHUMBRIA
    June 2013
    Bishop Elect Lesley Dennis will be consecrated at Congress as the Bishop of Northumbria.
  • ARCHBISHOP BLAKE'S FUNDRAISING FOR SAVE THE CHILDREN
    Annual Christmas Light Display
    1204 pounds was raised during December from the thousands of visitors and over 100 gathered for the Christmas Eve pavement carol service.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN THAILAND
    U.K. born ordinand Iain Baxter's has a ministry plan for Chiang Mai
    Archbishop Blake will ordain Iain in Cairo in May.
  • OEC ORDINAND LAUNCHES FOODBANK
    North Solihull
    Mike Sheridan has linked with 10 other churches to provide this facility as part of the network of foodbanks run by the Trussell Trust
  • REVD GIBBINS APPOINTED CHAPLAIN TO POLICE HATE CRIME GROUP
    Dereham
    Supporting victims of hate crime.
  • WORLD AIDS DAY SERVICE
    Held at the DYMK bar, on behalf of the Bournemouth LGBT community.
    The service was led by Revd Moss and Revd Goodwin
  • REVD LAWRENCE ORDAINED PRIEST
    Bishop Wharmby ordains her at the Quaker Meeting House, Boscombe.
    Family and friends gather in support.
  • POOLE COUNCILLOR MR TONY TRENT PRESENTS LOCAL KITE AWARDS
    The Town Crier called the Award Ceremony to order.
    Over 50 attended as Revd Lawrence introduced the two proud young recipients
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH ISSUES A CALL TO ALL ANGLICAN CLERICS
    A call to join the only unequivocally and comprehensively inclusive church.
    Having consecrated the first woman bishop for England in 2003, for Wales in 2007 and for Scotland last year, the OEC represents the only progressive, modern and socially relevant church of its generation. Life is too precious to waste one's opportunity to minister in a reactionary, failing institution that is one of the last remaining bastions of prejudice and discrimination.
  • BOURNEMOUTH ECHO ANNOUNCES REVD LAWRENCE'S PRIESTING
    Considerable local interest in the Open Episcopal Church
    Read the article
  • KITE AWARDS 2012 ANNOUNCED
    Awards for young people in Scotland, England and Wales
    Remarkable individuals rewarded and encouraged
    Full details
  • BISHOP HARRISON HAS DIED
    We grieve the passing of our faithful, kind, wise and gracious bishop.
    His funeral service will be held at Hinton Park, Woodland Burial Ground, Wyndham Road, Walkford, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 7EJ on Thursday 15/11/12 at 12.30
  • A NEW DEACON FOR THE DIOCESE OF SCOTLAND
    Revd Sarah Lawson was ordained on November 4th by Bishop Hamilton
    Revd Dr Hugh Quigley travelled from Ireland to assist. Revd Lawson will be ministering from the area of Perth.
  • OEC CLERIC PERFORMS MARRIAGE FOR MICK JAGGER'S DAUGHTER JADE
    Revd Mark Townsend conducted the marriage in the summer
    The couple Jade Jagger and Adrian Fillary have commented: "Mark was the perfect man to guide us through the beautiful ceremony of marriage. His warm caring nature meant that our service was perfectly adapted for us and our family. So many of our friends expressed how it was the most wonderful service they had ever been to and how true it felt. He is a unique Rev in every way!"
  • ORDINATIONS
    Revd Richard Britton has been ordained a deacon
    Sarah Lawson will be ordained deacon in November, Revd Kersten Lawrence a priest in December, Amanda Mcardle a deacon in February, Revd Dr Hugh Quigley a priest in March and Revd Daniel Gibbins a priest in August.
  • THE BISHOP OF SCOTLAND MAKES A HISTORIC VISIT TO LONDONDERRY
    Bishop Helen Hamilton meets with the Church of Ireland's Dean of Derry Cathedral
    The Londonderry Sentinel covers the visit- See the article or Read the web version
  • THE ARCHBISHOP MEETS THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER
    Archbishop Blake and our Bishop of Scotland, the Right Revd Helen Hamilton attended a reception marking the Government's historic consultation on Equal Civil Marriage.
    Campainers, religious leaders, celebrities and politicians met and enjoyed Ben and Jerry's 'Appley Ever After' ice cream, newly named to celebrate same-sex marriage in parts of the U.S., and entertainment was provided by London's LGBT chamber choir 'Diversity'.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER AT DOWNING STREET
    Archbishop Blake and Revd Gibbins attend No 10.
    Following the letter of support sent by the Open Episcopal Church in favour of the government's leglislation for equal marriage.
  • STRATEGY MEETING AS ORDINANDS CONTINUE TO RISE
    The bishops meet with Dr Carrie Pemberton Ford
    The bishops met Dr Pemberton Ford, a senior research member at the University of Cambridge and Director of the Cambridge Centre for Research in Human Traffiking.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP SPEAKS IN LONDON - Details
    At the invitation of NESTED
    A group of professionals seeking truth.
  • 9 NOMINATIONS FOR KITE AWARDS
    Applications from Merthyr Tydfil, Falkirk, Salisbury, Argyll, Poole and Margate
    The Archbishop's Council to consider the work of these exceptional young people. Nominations are still open.
  • SANCTUARIES TO OPEN ACROSS SCOTLAND
    Bishop Helen announces Sanctuaries of the Spring
    Centres of healing and hospitality for those wounded by religious factions
    Further details
  • THREE NEW ORDINANDS FOR THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
    Bishop Helen welcomes her first Scottish ordinand
    Ordinands too for Manchester and Brentwood.
  • VIDEO MONTAGE OF THE CONSECRATION
    History in the making
  • NUN MADE SCOTLAND'S FIRST BISHOP
    Bishop Hamilton leads the Diocese of Scotland for the Open Episcopal Church
    See the story and photograph in the Glasgow Herald at this link
  • OUR NEW BISHOP FOR SCOTLAND INTERVIEWED ON RADIO 4
    Bishop Elect Hamilton, the first woman bishop for Scotland
    Listen to the interview at this link
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH PRESENTS LETTER OF SUPPORT TO LYNNE FEATHERSTONE M.P. THE MINISTER FOR EQUALITIES
    The Archbishop and Revd Gibbins spent half an hour at Westminster with the M.P.
    The church presented the Minister with a letter of support for the Government's proposals on equal civil marriage and urged her to consider providing for equal religious marriage also and the liberty to marry in any location.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH LAUNCHES IN NORTHERN IRELAND
    Dr Hugh Quigley is to be ordained
    Our first cleric to live and work in Northern Ireland will be ordained Deacon at our Church Congress in June.
  • CHURCH CONGRESS 2012
    By kind invitation of our Diocese of Scotland
    It will be held at St. Brendan's Diocesan Centre from the evening of June 4th until the morning of June 8th. Many interesting subjects will be discussed including The Divine Feminine and the Spirituality of Captivity. We will also be travelling by boat to the Holy Isle to connect with the spirituality of Columba and Brendan. The sessions and worship are open to all.
  • REAR ADMIRAL BRUCE RICHARDSON WELCOMES THE ARCHBISHOP
    Admiral The Lord Boyce, Lord Warden and Admiral of the Cinque Ports and Constable of Dover Castle, His Worship, the Mayor of Swale, the Mayoress of Swale, the Worshipful Mayor of Faversham, Councillors, the Director of the Cambria Trust, volunteers and skilled barge restorers witnessed the Archbishop re-dedicate the Sailing Barge CAMBRIA and bless a compass given by the family in memory of Tony Ellis, the inspiration behind the project.
    The barge, restored with over one and half million pounds of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund will provide apprenticeships, social outreach programmes and educational experiences for young people.
  • NETWORK NORWICH'S ARTICLE ABOUT THE KITE AWARDS
    Revd Gibbins is interviewed
    Read the full article- here
  • THE HERALD INTERVIEWS BISHOP ELECT HAMILTON
    First female bishop for Scotland
    Rebecca McQuillan interviews Helen as she prepares for her Consecration - Read the Interview
  • TWO NEW CLERICS ORDAINED
    In Bournemouth and Kings Lynn
    Revd Kersten Lawrence and Revd Daniel Gibbins have both been ordained deacons of the church
  • ARCHBISHOP TO BLESS THE CAMBRIA
    Invited by the Cambria Trust
    This 1.4 million pound restoration scheme, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund as well as local government has resulted in this last British registered vessel to carry a commercial cargo under sail alone, to be fully restored. It is hoped the vessel will be used educationally and in work with the young. Full details available from - this link
  • GAY MARRIAGE WELCOMED BY THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
    Pastoral Letter issued
    Read the press release and pastoral letter
  • REVD TOWNSEND WILL PERFORM AT GREENBELT
    Magic and talks
    Revd Mark Townsend has been invited to speak about his new book, 'Jesus through Pagan eyes' and to delight the festival goers with his spiritual presentation of magic and mystery.
  • STREET MINISTRY
    Fr John Hyde's community outreach
    Annual returns demonstrate a three fold increase of those helped and in receipt of ministry - up to 2641 people.
  • INTERNATIONAL WORK
    The Archbishop is called overseas
    Archbishop Blake will travel to Germany, France and Ireland this year to provide Christian ministry.
  • NEW PRIEST
    Revd Robert Moss is priested
    Family, friends and clergy gathered in celebration of Robert's developing ministry.
  • A GIFT OF SAINTLY RELICS
    5 relics donated to the church
    Relics of St Sabina, St Marcellus, St Teresa of Avila, St Leopold Mandic and St Philip Howard have been given to the Open Episcopal Church. It is significant that St Sabina, St Marcellus and St Philip Howard were brave and gave their lives in resisting the pressure to conform. St Teresa overcame prejudice and persecution to become the first female Doctor of the Church and St Mandic overcame his disabilities, became known as the Apostle of Unity and is seen as the forerunner of today's ecumenism. The Open Episcopal Church is passionate about unity, inclusivity, and the need to overcome all prejudice and discrimination.Full details
  • KITE AWARDS
    Applications received
    Schools and youth groups are being alerted to the innovative KITE Award scheme and the first applications have been submitted.
  • CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
    1,400 pounds raised
    Even in the recession, Archbishop Blake's Christmas lights raised more this year than ever before. Over the years they have managed to raise over 6000 pounds for SAVE THE CHILDREN.
  • ORDINATIONS
    A significant increase
    Kersten Lawrence will be ordained deacon by Bishop Harrison at Kinson Chapel, Bournemouth on March 4th. Daniel Gibbins will be ordained deacon by Archbishop Blake in Kings Lynn on March 17th.
  • INVITATION FROM ROTARY
    The Archbishop delivers the Christmas message
    At the annual Rotary Christmas dinner in Kent, Archbishop Jonathan Blake was invited to attend and speak to business, professional and religious leaders and congratulate them on raising over 20,000 Pounds this year for charity.
  • ORDINATION
    Sub Conditione of Revd Christopher Morgan
    The service was held in the great hall of the Trinity Guild, King's Lynn on Sunday December 11th. Christopher is now the third Anglican priest to join the Open Episcopal Church
  • THE OEC KITE AWARDS
    Awarding up to 10,000 pounds
    The Open Episcopal Church is launching an award programme for young people aged between 10-18. The aim is to recognise, honour and inspire young people who are contributing to their community in a remarkable way and to re-awaken in society the virtue of a life spent in the service of others. Full details
  • THE FIRST WOMAN BISHOP FOR SCOTLAND
    The Archbishop's Council, meeting on November 22nd in London, has elected the new Bishop of Scotland
    Revd Helen Hamilton M.A. will be consecrated as the new Bishop of Scotland for the Open Episcopal Church and will take responsibility for the Diocese of Scotland. Bishop Elect Hamilton will be the first woman bishop in Scotland. The Open Episcopal Church previously consecrated the first woman bishop for England and the first woman bishop for Wales. The Open Episcopal Church will hold its annual Congress next year in Scotland as guests of the Diocese of Scotland and will welcome bishops, clerics and laity from across the United Kingdom travelling to Scotland for the momentous event of the consecration.
  • PRISONERS WEEK
    November 20th - 26th
    Prayer leaflets for use in England can be downloaded from this link
  • ORDINATION
    The priesting of Revd Robert Moss
    This will take place on Sunday 5th February at 11.00 at the Kinson Cemetery Chapel.
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH LAUNCHES A VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME
    Revd Helen Hamilton is overseeing an extensive modular training resource
    Ordinands and present clergy can benefit from this provision which involves a distance learning approach without incurring costs. Full details can be obtained by phoning 01852 314007
  • HEART OF GOLD AWARD
    Inspirational residents recognised in Pride of Bournemouth Awards
    Fr John Hyde was honoured in September for his extensive voluntary work and care for others.
  • PREMIER CHRISTIAN RADIO BROADCAST
    The Archbishop was invited to be the guest on the Inspirational Breakfast Show
    During the 75 minute show Bishop Jonathan was able to speak about the vision of a church without walls, loving and inclusive, relevant and available for everyone.
  • GREENBELT
    The Archbishop speaks at Greenbelt
    The Archbishop spoke in the G-Source about responding to the call of Jesus into ministry without being constricted by denominational obstacles.
  • THE CLUB CHAPLAINCY
    Fr John Hyde's work in Bournemouth
    On August 13th a prayer walk was held offering prayers outside the clubs and fast food outlets, as well as providing the practical care outlined in the earlier report below.
  • LIVING WATER AT SPRINGHILL FARM
    Seahouses Northumberland. August 5th -7th 2011
    This was the first festival organised by the OEC in Cramlington and was well attended by people of all ages during the weekend. Friday kicked off the festival with a BBQ followed by beer and hymns where people requested their favourite Christian songs and everyone sang along karaoke style. Children on holiday at the farm campsite heard the music and joined the singing with enthusiasm, adding dances and learning new action songs. On Saturday morning the group walked along the coast to make a pilgimage to St Aidan's church Bamburgh, an historic site for Early Christianity in England, and the place where St Aidan died in 651AD. (www.staidan-bamburgh.co.uk) Local muscian Neal Croudace played a range of bluegrass gospel songs on Saturday evening and his rendition of Amazing Grace to the tune of House of the Rising Sun was an inspirational piece. Communion was celebrated on Sunday morning around the refectory table in a simple service where every member of the group participated in prayers of intercessions, or readings and giving each other the sacraments of bread and wine. It was a weekend that was packed with fun, fellowship and lots of good home cooking. Already people are making their reservation for the next one.
  • WE WELCOME REVD CHRISTOPHER MORGAN
    Revd Morgan, who has effected a Deed of Relinquishment from the Anglican Church will be ordained (sub-conditione) and welcomed into the Open Episcopal Church.
    The service will take place on December 11th at 2 p.m. at the Kings Lynn Town Hall. Further information and details are available from Revd Morgan's web site.
  • A SERVICE OF BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
    "Our Lady of the Sea", Ardinamar, Luing on August 28th at 3pm
    All animals with their owners are welcome to attend.
  • E-Mail
  • BEING AND BELIEVING OUTSIDE THE BOX
    Archbishop Blake will be speaking on 'Faith, ministry and social action, liberated from the power politics, outdated dogmas and the cult language of 'club' church'
    September 22nd 6.30 p.m. at St Phillips Church, Earls Court Road. London. W8 6QA. Tickets from Julian Whiting. Events Director. 0789 9723620
  • DEDICATION OF A NEW CHAPEL
    The Diocese of Scotland- The Isle of Luing
    Dedication of the new, outdoor chapel to "Our Lady of The Sea" will take place before the Eucharist on Sunday July 17th at 9.30 am. Refreshments will follow.
  • LIVING WATER FESTIVAL
    August 5th-7th
    Three days of walks, fun and spiritual refreshment in amazing countryside - contact Rev Lesley Dennis
  • 07960 419156
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS CHOSEN AS A SAFE HAVEN FOR GRIEVING FAMILIES
    Suicide, the tragic death of the young and those with disabling conditions
    These are examples of those who turn to our church knowing they will receive sensitive and compassionate ministry, not pushing any dogma, but seeking to ensure their wishes are respected.
  • POST THE HOST FLOURISHES
    Continuing to meet a need
    A community of young Christians have asked to receive the consecrated hosts regularly so they can worship together. Others who have felt alienated from the church have been able to receive.
  • SKYPE MASS AND THE DAILY OFFICE
    By video link
    Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer and a Mass are being offered - contact 0208 304 7605 for further details
  • A THIRD ANGLICAN CLERIC TO JOIN THE CHURCH
    Vocational applications rise
    A third Anglican cleric has applied to join the Church and a fourth is considering the move. In addition, vocational applications have reached their highest level ever.
  • A CENTRE OF LEARNING IN THE DIOCESE OF SCOTLAND
    Revd Hamilton launches discussion groups
    Theologcal Dicussion every Tuesday beginning June 28 at 7.45pm. at the St Brendan Centre, Luing. Topics and details : The St Brendan Centre
  • AN INSPIRATIONAL DAY
    Over 100 gather to celebrate Revd Mark Townsend's ordination.
    Members of the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist and URC Churches came together with Druids and Wiccans as well as those from other spiritual traditions like the Bahai faith, in a service of mutual respect and unity, that epitomised the vision of the Open Episcopal Church of an inclusive church.
  • BISHOP HARRISON'S RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION IN FILM
    Research supported by all 5 of the U.K. Research Councils
    Dr Kip Jones is the Executive Producer of "Rufus Stone" a film by Josh Appignanesi which begins filming in July.
  • QUIET DAY
    Isle of Luing
    On June 25th there will be a Quiet Day on the theme the "Inner Journey" which will include times of silence, reflection and sharing. Please email Helen for further details or to book a place.
  • E-Mail
  • THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH MINISTERS AT THE HOUSE OF COMMONS
    A Baptism
    Bishop Jonathan Blake baptised three children in the Terrace Pavilion of the House of Commons, as a guest of Brandon Lewis M.P.
  • THE ARCHBISHOP WILL ATTEND GREENBELT
    August 26th-29th
    Bishop Jonathan Blake will be exhibiting at Greenbelt this year throughout the festival, speaking to those attending and delivering a talk, encouraging people to consider whether God is calling them to be ordained.
  • FIRST YEAR EXHIBITING
    The Christian Resources Exhibition
    This week Bishops and clergy will attend Esher to spread the good news that the Open Episcopal Church is an inclusive, loving and diverse church, ministering flexibly in any setting, offering the sacraments to all, ecumenical in belief, worship and practice with over 20,000 members and with clerics across the U.K.
  • DYING MATTERS - AWARENESS WEEK
    'Why dying matters to me'
    May 19th at Arawlay House for those in the South West. The film 'A Party for Kath' will be shown and Mr Tapper from Tapper Funeral Service will speak. Information from Father Canon John Hyde ssb. Tel:01202 466364
  • REVD TESS WARD'S EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
    For Mark Townsend's service
    Tess Ward, hospital chaplain at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre in Oxford, has written a special Eucharistic prayer for the Mass on June 18th at Leominster.
  • ORDINATIONS
    May 8th Exeter
    Bishop Harrison will ordain Dennis Oakes and Robert Moss to the Diaconate
  • NEW RETREAT CENTRE
    Isle of Luing, Nr Oban
    At the end of April the new retreat centre, The St Brendan Centre, Isle of Luing, PA34 4UD will open its doors under the watchful eye of the Reverend Helen Hamilton. Please contact Helen on 01856 873880
  • Peace at the retreat house

  • FLASH MOB WORSHIP
    Revd Lesley Dennis participates
    A group of young Christians in Cramlington organised a flash mob rendition of 'From everlasting to everlasting' at Cramlington's main shopping precinct last Saturday. A flash mob is where a group emerge from the crowd, perform something and then disappear back into the crowd. The people of Cramlington were very appreciative.
  • REVD MARK TOWNSEND IS TO JOIN THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
    Ordination in June
    The Revd Mark Townsend, a former Church of England Vicar, has chosen to return his permission to officiate in the Diocese of Hereford and effected a Deed of Relinquishment. He is joining the Open Episcopal Church and will be ordained (sub-conditione) on June 18th in the Lion Ballroom, Leominster. Revd Townsend is well known across Herefordshire and beyond as a priest as well as a Stage Magician. "Amazing and Inspirational!" Uri Geller "A priest like no other!" Cherie Blair "Wonderful and heart warming" Brian Viner, The Independent "One who lives and thinks outside the box" Bp. John Shelby Spong "A Priest at the edge" Rev. Peter Owen Jones (BBCs 'Extreme Pilgrim').
  • DUKE OF YORK'S ROYAL MILITARY SCHOOL, DOVER
    Archbishop's visit
    The Chaplain, Revd Andrew Richards welcomed Archbishop Blake on March 15th to speak to the sixth form about the Open Episcopal Church.
  • MESSY ANGELS
    Further funding award
    Messy Angels has received a, 500 pound grant from the Co-op Community Fund and plans for the Living Water Festival are developing well.
  • NIGHT CHAPLAINCY
    Fr John Hyde reports from Bournemouth
    Out and about on the streets of Bournemouth with the club chaplaincy. The team go out on a Saturday night from 10.30 p.m. To 5.00 a.m. Over the last six months we have been involved in helping to respond to: 24 acts of verbal abuse, 17 acts of domestic violence, 28 physical fights, 3 sexual assaults, 31 lone females, 10 lone males, 32 drunk and incapable females, 35 drunk and incapable males, 16 emotional females, 10 emotional males, 25 under 18's, 36 people needing to get home, 28 requiring first aid, 253 slippers distributed, 938 discarded bottles collected and called out the Ambulance Service 12 times. PLEASE PRAY FOR THE WORK.
  • ECUMENICAL HEALING SERVICE
    St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney
    All are warmly invited to this service on Candlemas at 12 Noon
  • NEW GENERAL ELECT
    The Salvation Army
    The Open Episcopal Church sends Christian greetings on Commissioner Linda Bond's appointment as the 19th General of the Salvation Army.
  • ECUMENICAL SERVICE
    For the Bethany Trust
    Bishop Gillham arranged the Asda carol service, participated in by all local churches, which raised, 375 pounds for the Bethany Trust, an Edinburgh based charity that provides night shelters for homeless youngsters
  • FURTHER EDUCATION CHAPLAINCIES
    Steering Committee
    Bishop Gillham has been invited to sit on this multi-denominational group examining strengthening the links between chaplaicies.
  • Are You ALL INclusive?
    The International Council of Community Churches
    The 2011 ICCC Annual Conference will be held at the Bally's Las Vegas Hotel in Las Vegas, NV from July 24-27, 2011. Updates and links can be found throughout their website. You can also contact the Council office for information
  • THE MINOR ORDERS
    Doorkeeper
    On February 8th we look forward to raising Jonathan Chapman to the Minor Order of Doorkeeper as part of his chosen vocational path to the priesthood.
  • HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY
    Our observance
    Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is a day for everyone. We need to pause to remember the millions of people who were murdered or whose lives were changed beyond recognition during the Holocaust, under Nazi persecution,and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Bosnia, Rwanda and Darfur. The Open Episcopal Church in the South West held a service with a film, prayers, a time of silence and candle lighting.
  • ORKNEY ECUMENICAL RETREAT CENTRE
    Peace and Prayer
    The Centre exists to provide a place of hospitality and spirituality for all. It provides a still place for those seeking a time of meditation. The Reverend Helen Hamilton is available to provide spiritual counsel, retreat direction and sacrament for those who require it. Simple overnight hospitality is available on application. There is no charge, though guests may wish to make a donation according to their means. Helen has lived and worked for various churches on Scottish islands for many years. She is passionate about sharing Christ with others, enabling Christians on their journey, Christian healing and ecumenism. Prior to being ordained she worked as a teacher, prison Governor and an Anglican, religious Sister. The retreat centre is a small, orcadian farmhouse, which stands on the hillside overlooking Scapa Flow. A chapel in the eaves reached by a steep stairway is always available for private prayer. Daily prayer is said and the Eucharist regularly celebrated. Accommodation is available for small groups on a daily basis. Please contact: ecumenical@openepiscopalchurch.org
  • 01856 873880

    Dawn from the retreat house

  • NEWS FROM MESSY ANGELS
    Cramlington
    Fully Inclusive Communion service at Mayfield Community Centre, Brownrigg Drive, Cramlington NE23 5TQ first Sunday of every month beginning on 6th February. Messy Angels now on 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month. Living Water Christian Festival at Springhill Farm 5th 6th 7th August - contact Rev Lesley Dennis
  • 07960 419156 - musicians and singers needed! Messy Angels recieved a 100 pound donation for a Christmas party from Tony - a local surgeon, which was very much appreciated and the children enjoyed the Nativity session and the party that followed.
  • CHRISTIAN RESOURCES EXHIBITION
    May 10th - 13th Esher
    The Open Episcopal Church will be exhibiting at Esher for the first time this year.
  • World Aids Day
    Bournemouth
    On World Aids Day December 1st in Bournemouth, Dorset there was the inauguration of an AIDS memorial comprising some 200 artist designed tiles each representing a person in Dorset who died of AIDS, all wall mounted in a prominent location close to the pier

    The unveiling was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Bournemouth. A tile was donated by Genesis Fellowship & Bishop Stewart is a trustee of DAMSET the charity which organised & completed it. This was followed by the official World AIDS day service hosted by the Church of England on behalf of Body Positive Dorset. Fr. John Hyde participated in the service & has now received an invitation to a meal with the local town centre Rector arising from this service & his ministry in the nightclub chaplaincy
  • Ordination
    Tamworth, Midlands Diocese
    The Reverend Deacon Simon Mapp BTh will be ordained as a Priest on 12th January 2011 at 2:30 p.m. in Tamworth Parish Church. All are welcome to attend
  • Messy Angels
    Cramlington
    Messy Angels, a club running for family groups in the Open Episcopal Church at Cramlington, has just been awarded a grant of 750 pounds by Northumberland County Council from their Community Chest fund. This will enable the club to continue in operation for at least 5 to 6 months and is welcome news for those attending. For more information on the club contact Rev Lesley Dennis
  • Conference 2011
    Margate
    It has been announced that the next Open Episcopal Church Conference will be held in Margate on 10th and 11th October 2011
  • Ecumenical Officer Appointed
    Provincial
    The Reverend Helen Hamilton, priest in charge of the Open Episcopal Church work in Kirkwall, has been appointed as the Provincial Ecumenical Officer. All ecumenical enquiries may be made to Helen at ecumenical@openepiscopalchurch.org
  • Christians Against Poverty
    Scotland
    Bishop David of the Diocese of Scotland is to become an Ambassador and Speaker for the international charity organisation Christians Against Poverty. He will undertake training for this role in December
  • Saint Magnus Cathedral
    Kirkwall, Orkney
    Commencing 27th October 2010 a service of Holy Communion will be held at 12 noon in St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall. All are welcome to attend this service and to partake of communion
  • Dorchester
    River of Life Centre, Durngate
    The Open Episcopal Church of the South West Diocese is pleased to announce that a celebration of Holy Mass will take place on Sunday 3rd October at 11:00 a.m. in The River of Life Centre, Durngate, Salisbury Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 9EP. The Celebrant will be Canon Fr John Hyde SSB and the guest preacher will be Fr Tim Hodge. All are welcome. More information can be obtained from The Right Reverend Stewart Harrison on 01202 763609 or Fr John Hyde on 01202 46636
  • Ordination to the Priesthood
    Cramlington
    The Reverend Lesley Dennis, Deacon in Charge at Cramlington, will be ordained as a Priest during the annual church conference October 18th-19th 2010
  • Living Water
    Refresh Your Soul in Northumberland
    The Open Episcopal Church in Cramlington is planning to hold a Christian festival on the weekend of Friday to Sunday 5th, 6th & 7th August 2011 at Springhill Farm, Seahouses. There will be a marquee on the grassed area outside and as there is a camping and caravan site at the farm there is plenty of room for anyone planning to attend for the whole weekend. Watch this space for more information on the activities planned for the festival
  • New Community Cafe
    Mayfield Community Centre, Cramlington
    A new community cafe is planned in Cramlington to be held at Mayfield Community Centre and it is hoped to be open by October. More details will follow soon
  • Messy Angels Summer Fair
    Cramlington
    Messy Angels is becoming well established in Cramlington with new families coming every week and averaging 20 to 25 attendees at most sessions with 41 attending on Sunday 22nd August. To enable Messy Angels to continue a Summer Fair was held on Sunday 29th August, raising 220 pounds to keep the ministry going for a while yet. A further fundraising disco and buffet is planned to be held at the local social club at the end of October and will help to ensure the future of Messy Angels. Messy Angels now have their own page on facebook
  • St Magus Cathedral
    Kirkwall
    The Reverend Deacon Helen May Hamilton was ordained as a Priest during a Eucharistic celebration held in St Magnus' Cathedral, Kirkwall, Orkney on Saturday 21st August 2010
  • New Retreat Centre Open Day
    St Ola
    ORKNEY ECUMENICAL RETREAT CENTRE
    SUNNYSIDE, ST OLA, KIRKWALL KW 15 1TR,

    OPEN DAY SEPTEMBER 14TH 2010

    10.30 EUCHARIST
    BRING AND SHARE LUNCH
    3.00 4.00 MEDITATION
    TEA
    4.30 EVENING PRAYER

    COUNSELLING, SPIRITUAL DIRECTION, GUIDED RETREATS,
    RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE

    REV. HELEN HAMILTON 01856 873880
  • ACTS
    Scotland
    At a recent members meeting of Action of Churches Together in Scotland (ACTS) an application to join that was submitted by the Open Episcopal Church in Scotland was rejected on the basis that the church did not fully meet the second requirement, which is "a willingness to work ecumenically", and that it did not meet the third requirement which is "to be organised on at least a Scottish national level". As the Open Episcopal Church has fully demonstrated its willingness to work ecumenically but has been prevented from doing so largely due to hostility from several other churches and because the Open Episcopal Church is a UK wide organisation with congregations, missions and other ministries stretching from Bournemouth on the south coast of England to Kirkwall in the north of Scotland, clarification has been sought from the next members meeting of ACTS in an attempt to discern why our membership application has been rejected and what, precisely, the church needs to do to conform to the membership requirement of that organisation
  • Messy Angels
    Cramlington
    Messy Angels is an all age, all inclusive worship session that includes lots of creativity, arts, crafts, storytelling, music, worship and prayer followed by Sunday tea together. It will take place at Mayfields Community Centre in Cramlington beginning 6th June 3.00pm til 4.30pm
  • Conference 2010
    London
    The next national conference of the Open Episcopal Church will take place in London on the 18th and 19th of October, 2010
  • Fr John, Nightclub Chaplain
    Bournemouth
    Fr John of the Open Episcopal Church's Genesis Fellowship in Bournemouth found himself in the news recently for his work on the Bournemouth Nightclub scene. More details can be found here
  • Ordination of a new Deacon
    Cramlington
    The Reverend Lesley Dennis was ordained as a deacon of the Open Episcopal Church in front of a local congregation of around 150 people on Saturday 16th January 2010 at Beaconhill Community Centre, Langdale Drive, Cramlington NE24 8EH. During the service a collection was taken for the Haiti disaster raising over 400 pounds
  • Scottish Parliament
    Scotland
    The Bishop of Scotland will address the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 20 January 2010 and will lead the parliamentary 'Time for Reflection' at 2:30 p.m.
  • Ecumenical Participation
    National
    At a recent meeting of the Archbishop's Council, the decision was made to proceed with applications to the ecumenical bodies of the United Kingdom, commencing with an immediate application to Action of Churches Together in Scotland (ACTS). This decision reaffirms the intent of the Open Episcopal Church to take its place in the life of the Christian Church nationwide and to work together with other Christian churches for visible unity
  • St Cecilia's Oratory
    Lichfield
    St Cecilia's Oratory has opened in Lichfield. Lichfield is in the Midlands Diocese
  • Open Faith
    Midlands Diocese
    The new mission in the Midlands Diocese, "Open Faith", is now open. All are welcome
  • Ordinands In Training
    National
    Several new candidates have been accepted by the Archbishop's Council and are currently in training for ordination as deacons
  • Online Charity Shop
    Scotland
    The Diocese of Scotland has partnered with Amazon to provide an Online Charity Shop. All commission earned from this enterprise will go to further the charitable purposes of the diocese, which is a registered charity (SC037428)
  • London 2012
    The next Olympic Games
    The Diocese of London & South East England is to join with other local churches in providing a Christian presence at the next Olympic Games
  • ICCC Conference
    Indianapolis, USA
    The International Council of Community Churches 60th Annual Conference will be held in Indianapolis, Illinois July 19-23, 2010. Updates and links can be found throughout their website. You can also contact the Council office for information
  • War Memorial Dedication

    Photograph by Gary Baker copyright West Lothian Council 2009
    Used with permission

    Bishop David Gillham of the Scottish diocese, in his capacity as Padre to the Livingston branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland, led a team of ecumenical clergy to re-dedicate the Livingston War Memorial after its move to a new home at the recently completed Civic Centre. Bishop David returned the following week, Remembrance Sunday, to lead the annual Civic Service of Remembrance