22nd September 2009

Armed with a king-sized invitation card, the Bishop of Huntingdon, Dr David Thomson, has been visiting Ely town centre to invite people to church next Sunday (27 September).

His efforts are part of a nationwide appeal, Back to Church Sunday, aimed at encouraging people to attend worship.

Parishioners are being asked to invite their friends and neighbours, who have had some connection with the Church, to come back and see what they are missing. Those who have never been churchgoers are also being made welcome.

The initiative is based on research showing that between 20 and 30 per cent of the population would be open to such an invitation. Last year over 37,000 people across the UK returned as churchgoers after being invited by their friends.

“This is a brilliant idea,” said Bishop Thomson. “I would like to encourage people living in the Diocese to come back to church. We have over 300 churches waiting to welcome you.”

Back to Church Sunday began in Manchester Diocese in 2004 and, following their success, the Diocese of Ely is taking up the idea as part of their 900th Anniversary celebrations.

Picture caption:
The Bishop of Huntingdon, Dr David Thomson, invites shoppers in Ely town centre to come to church.

For details and more information:

Bishops’ Press Officer:
Canon Owen Spencer-Thomas
52 Windsor Road
Cambridge
CB4 3JN

Mobile: 07801 492151
E-mail: Owen.Spencer-Thomas@ely.anglican.org

22nd September 2009
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