The Church of England’s ‘Joy of Christmas’ campaign gets underway today, inviting people across the nation to “rediscover the hope and joy at the guts of the season”.
The Church hopes to succeed in tens of millions of individuals with the true reason behind the Christmas celebrations, with every day reflections, online services, and over 500 specially created free resources for families, schools and kids.
Reflections include Twelve Joys of Christmas by the Dean of Salisbury, Nicholas Papadopulos, on “the meaning of joy in on a regular basis traditions”, and O Come Emmanuel, a series of “Advent meditations based on the traditional ‘O Antiphons’ accompanied by newly commissioned artwork and music”.
In a primary for a Church of England Christmas campaign, a brand latest illustrated kid’s storybook has been published for families to read together in the course of the festive season.
Priced £4.99, “The Grumpy Owl and the Joy of Christmas” reimagines the story of Jesus’ birth “through the eyes of an owl who seems determined to miss all the thrill”. The storybook is written by Jonathan Maltz and Christopher Poch, and is beautifully illustrated by artist Jago.
“It marks a milestone for the Church, as its first dedicated children’s picture book produced specifically for the Advent and Christmas season,” the Church said.
For the grown-ups, author and theologian Paula Gooder has prepared an audio series on behalf of the Church of England. There are also bitesize Christmas reflections available via email or on the Everyday Faith app.
Christmas isn’t only a vital festival for Christians, it’s one among the busiest times of 12 months for churches up and down the country as they welcome in lots of visitors who wouldn’t otherwise come to church but are open to festive events like carol concert events, candlelit services, craft stalls, and nativities.
Last 12 months tens of millions attended a Church of England service or event over the festive period, and the Church is expecting an analogous turnout this 12 months.
The Bishop of Stockport, Sam Corley, said, “There’s plenty of talk – and quite a little bit of singing – about joy at Christmas. But what does that mean when life feels overwhelming?
“If you are feeling like joining the grumpy owl in our story and shutting yourself away, then the message of Christmas is for you.
“It’s a reminder that joy isn’t a command to obey or one other task to tick off; neither is it hidden in perfection or possessions. It is a present – freely given by the God who never hides or closes the door to us.
“At the guts of Christmas is the excellent news that God comes into the world, opening doors and giving us confidence to walk with him into the longer term he makes possible.
Download resources at cofe.io/TheJoyOfChristmas and find local services at AChurchNearYou.com.
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