Bishop Philip writes…
The New Year 2026 has got off to a turbulent start with the military exercises in Venezuela and now, President Trump’s ambitious plan to take control of Greenland. Today, as the World Economic Forum gathers in Davos, it would be good to re-read Pope Leo’s Message for this year’s World Day of Peace. “Whether we have the gift of faith or feel we lack it” the Holy Father says, “let us open ourselves to peace!” Over these troubling days, let us pray earnestly for an end to war and violence in the world and for stability and a greater and deeper collaboration between nations. Let us especially pray for an end to the war in Ukraine.
In other news, there was a great response to my recent appeal for men to come forward who might be considering a vocation to the priesthood, with over 50 turning up and many of them expressing a strong desire to explore possibilities going forward. Please continue your prayers for priestly vocations, that many of these men will be filled with the Holy Spirit and respond to the summons of the Lord.
Meanwhile, welcome to this e-News for Tuesday 20th January 2026. Thank you for sending in your news, and our thanks to Deacon Craig for his editing. Have a blessed week ahead.
With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,
In Corde Iesu
+Philip
Bishop of Portsmouth
[Image: AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka]
