CofE bishops have shared Easter messages highlighting hope, renewal, and the transforming power of Christ amid global and personal challenges. Guli Francis-Dehqani, reflecting on a visit to the Holy Land, described the severe hardship faced by Christians in the West Bank, yet affirmed that Christian hope endures even in deep suffering. Other bishops pointed to both global conflict and local freedoms, with Michael Ipgrave giving thanks for the nation’s heritage of public Christian witness. In Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley drew on the city’s pilgrim history to illustrate the Easter journey of guidance, continuity, and good news. Jonathan Gibbs contrasted human self-interest with Christ’s self-giving love as the true path to peace and reconciliation. Hugh Nelson and Andy Emerton emphasised the resurrection as a powerful reality that overturns despair, offering forgiveness, restoration, and a new beginning. Together, their messages call believers to live as people of hope, shaped by the cross and resurrection. See
Bishops' Easter messages on new beginnings and hope amid conflict
Written by David Fletcher 03 Apr 2026
Additional Info
- Pray: that resurrection hope will renew the Church, strengthening witness, unity, and compassion amid conflict and uncertainty. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- More: www.churchofengland.org/media/news-and-press-releases/bishops-share-easter-messages-new-beginnings-and-hope-amid-conflict