A SHORT film celebrating all the good work done to bring the wonder of Christmas to churches, schools, communities and hospitals has been made to share this Christmas, the first as the new diocese of West Yorkshire and the Dales.

It has been uploaded onto the diocesan YouTube channel for clergy and staff to share this Christmas in their services and on their social media.

Diocesan Bishop, the Rt Revd Nick Baines, has also sent a message: Happy Christmas.

“This is not mere sentiment, but is a hope and prayer that can be lived out all over this diocese,” he said. “Our churches and communities, captivated by the Jesus who came among us as one of us, live out God’s reckless invitation where they are. In our schools, colleges and hospitals, in our prisons, shops and churches, in hospices, clubs and societies, we will retell the story of God surprising earth with heaven.

“In our first Christmas as a new diocese, let us celebrate with joy the generosity of God – then live it out for the sake of those among whom we live and serve.”