The Bishop of Ely’s 2011 Christmas and New Year Video Message
The Bishop of Ely, The Rt Reverend Stephen Conway, features in a specially recorded video message featuring interviews, prayers and reflections for his first Christmas as Bishop of the Diocese.
Towards the end of the nine minute video, Bishop Conway makes clear reference to the wider economic and social problems facing the world and says: “We are all aware this year of many struggles. In the world economy, in wars and in strife around the globe.”
He adds: “Being in it, means being in it together in love and friendship and that’s what I hope will be Christmas for each of us.”
The film on the Diocesan website (www.ely.anglican.org) is presented by Bishop Conway.
The Bishop is seen preparing mince pies for family guests before interviewing a local GP, members of local churches and two choristers from Ely Cathedral.
“We have done some films already this year and they have gone down well. In this social media age it seems obvious to spend just a little time working on something which will hopefully be seen by many more people than I can possibly, physically reach over this most important time in the Christian year,” Bishop Conway said this morning.
Dr Dee McCormack is interviewed by Bishop Conway and reflects on her work as a local GP and on what Christmas means to people.
Two members of St Mary’s, Ely, Pam Patrick and Margaret Haylock, stress the importance of Christmas as a time for remembering and as a time for the whole community to come together.
Bishop Conway also expands on the theme of good preparation during Advent (which is just ending) so that Christmas can be properly and wonderfully celebrated: “Our Advent is about preparation for the coming of Christ: for all that Christmas means to us in the busyness of our lives. Preparing practically and spiritually to welcome people into our homes and into our lives again.”
Ely Cathedral Choristers Edward Birchinall and Edward Merrick talk about what it means to be a chorister at Christmas and sing a carol for those who watch the video.
The film was devised by Revd Rob Marshall, Personal Media Consultant to the Bishop, produced by Adam Orr and directed by Kieran Collins.
21st December 2011