Bishop Philip writes…

Christ is risen! Happy Easter! Along with the joys of the Resurrection, the amazing achievements of the Artemis II mission have also lifted our spirits these last days. At the same time, there is the good news of a ceasefire in the Middle East, however fragile. Let us pray that that the weapons of war will be laid down for good and that a successful way forward can be found. Let us not forget in our prayers too to pray for peace in Ukraine.

Welcome to e-News issue 529 (2026/13) for Tuesday 14th April 2026. This week, you can read the homilies from the Chrism Mass and the Easter Triduum, as well as the final conference to head teachers on SS. Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati that Fr. Tom Kleinschmidt gave. We also begin this week a series of articles looking at Mass attendance across the Diocese. The overall picture is a challenging one. It reminds us how much we need to reach out to not-yet-practicing Catholics and to the many people in our society who have not yet heard the Good News of Christ. Meanwhile, may the Lord guide you and bless you with His love.

With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,

In Corde Iesu

+Philip

Bishop of Portsmouth