| Not long ago, I visited a prison where the prisoners had written their own version of a Christmas song: ‘Twelve Days of Prison Christmas.’ Each verse ended with the line, ‘And a Mars bar from the Chaplaincy.’ I thought to myself, rather like the advertising slogan of a certain supermarket in the run up to the festive season, ’That’s what makes it Christmas.’ Small acts of love—signs that someone cares. These gestures reflect the greatest gift of all: God giving us His Son, Jesus Christ, a reminder of His love for each of us.
Many of you have spent time in prison over Christmas or—just as importantly—prayed for prisoners, staff, and all involved in our justice system. Thank you. It means so much to tell prisoners, ‘People are praying for you,’ and to know it’s true.
Your prayers bring light into the darkest places—not just at Christmas, but all year round.
As we enter 2026, and as we look for a justice system which is more compassionate and more rehabilitative, your prayers matter more than ever. Chaplains across England and Wales are deeply grateful for your support. By your prayers and your encouragement, you make a real difference and remind people of God’s great love and of the hope He offers to us all. Please keep praying, perhaps make it your new year’s resolution (you were never going to keep going to the gym anyway!) — it truly matters.
Wishing you a joyful and hope-filled New Year. |
