Bishop says "slow down"

Published 27 Nov 2008 08:00 0 Comments

COMMUTERS rushing past Westminster Abbey on Monday may have spotted the Bishop of Reading reclining on a sofa.

The Right Rev Stephen Cottrell invited people to join him in the outdoor "waiting room" to think about slowing down before Christmas rather than joining the rush.

It marked the launch of the Church of England's online Advent calendar, which will contain daily thoughts and ideas about waiting for Christmas.

Bishop Stephen said: "This Advent calendar is a timely resource as we approach Christmas in the credit crunch. It offers people a breathing space in what is often a busy and stressful time of year so we can all consider how best to use our resources.

"This website will remind people that having to wait for what you want isn't always a bad thing. Sometimes you realise you don't want it after all and save yourself some time and money. Other times, what you want is even more welcome for having had to wait."

The website features an introductory film from the Archbishop of Canterbury and will include podcasts by the Archbishop of York, the Most Rev Dr John Sentamu and Oxford Professor of Psychology, Dr Mark Williams.

Bishop Stephen has also written a book for Advent, Do Nothing: Christmas Is Coming, with daily thoughts and ideas about Christmas and how to avoid stress.

Do Nothing: Christmas is Coming (ISBN 978-07151-4164-9) costs £4.99 and is available from Christian bookshops, by mail order or at www.chpublishing.co.uk.

Visit www.WhyWeAreWaiting.com

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 27 Nov 08

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