Run the Race
Run the Race is Bishop Nigel's pilgrimage to all parishes in the diocese. It began in May 2006 with his first visit to St Clements, Chorlton and St Mary, Davyhulme.
Under the banner 'Run the Race, Look to Jesus', the bishop hopes to encourage every parish to pass on the baton of faith to the next generation. By the end of 2008, the Bishop of Manchester will have completed over 100 mission visits by the end of this year.
Below you can read some information about the mission or you can visit the Run the Race website here.
Inspired by a baton
"Just before it was announced that I was to be the next Bishop of Manchester, I led the broadcast of the BBC's Daily Service from Didsbury. It was the opening day of the Commonwealth Games. Over the previous night I had stayed at a small hotel on the Wilmslow Road.
That morning, as I looked out of the window, I saw right opposite me the Commonwealth Games baton being handed from one runner to the next - on its journey to the opening ceremony. It was an exciting moment.
But for me it was also a powerful symbol, as I thought of the "gospel baton" I was soon to be handed for my mission as bishop here. One of the reasons for my present journey of "parish pilgrimages" is to encourage every Christian in every church to respond to God's call to pass on the baton of the gospel of the Risen Jesus to others."
Mission Facts
- It will take about 3-4 years to visit all 350 churches
- He will carry the Commonwealth baton into each church as part of the service he will share in
- Churches are planning community receptions around each visit
- Bishop Nigel wants to pray in each place and encourage congregations in their faith, discipleship and mission.
