Diocesan Celebration Service 2026
More than 150 people filled St Mary’s Church in Abergavenny for our annual Diocesan Celebration service.
Held the weekend before Pentecost, the morning offered faith and fellowship, with a family-friendly focus.
Keeping the congregation on their toes, there was a ‘lego’ themed activity, before the younger members made their way to the Priory Centre for more crafts and games! With the sound of laughter and excitement filtering into the church, it sounded like they had a wonderful time!
Music was provided by a worship band, who made sure everyone joined in!
This years’ service was based on Jesus’ words, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you”, and Bishop Cherry’s sermon reflected on these words and what they mean for Christians today.
She began by exploring the different reactions people may have to this calling — feeling honoured, uncertain, curious, or perhaps not realising that Jesus’ commission applies to them personally.
Her sermon then recalls the disciples after the resurrection. Although they had heard that Jesus had risen, they were fearful, anxious, and hiding behind locked doors. Bishop Cherry compares this to the modern church, which can become preoccupied with survival, declining numbers, finances, buildings, and uncertainty about the future.
These concerns are understandable, but they are not the whole story.
She says, “But in the mix of it all is a bigger story, God’s story, and when Jesus comes and stands amongst his fearful disciples, he doesn’t castigate them, he doesn’t bemoan their lack of faith, he doesn’t focus on their worries and concerns. He says, ‘Peace be with you.’ As if to say, ‘It’s OK. It’s all OK.’”
Jesus then commissions his followers, giving them the Holy Spirit and sending them into the world just as the Father sent him. The sermon focuses especially on the meaning of the word “as,” highlighting three ways Jesus sends his followers: In love, in humility and vulnerability and in relationship with God.
The sermon concludes with a prayerful encouragement for believers to receive the Holy Spirit afresh, to trust in Christ’s peace despite challenges, and to be willing and eager to live out God’s mission in every part of life.
Bishop Cherry says, “May each of us know that peace which passes all understanding, whatever it is that is going on in our lives and in our church. And may we be ready and willing, eager even, to be sent to do the Father’s will – in our homes, in our work, in our leisure - to his praise and glory.”
Lots of people stayed after the service to enjoy a catch-up with friends over cuppa and cake!
You can read Bishop Cherry's full sermon here
