Bishop says remember families who are separated at Christmas

A Nottinghamshire Bishop is appealing to people to remember families and homes around the country with ‘empty chairs’ at the Christmas table – following visits to two local prisons and time spent with soldiers returning or preparing for operations. The Rt Revd Tony Porter – the Bishop of Sherwood – says although Christmas is a time of celebration it can also be a time of isolation and loneliness for many.

He said: “For many families this year – there will be someone special missing from the celebrations whether through work, bereavement or even as a result of crime. It’s important for us to be sensitive to those who find Christmas a painful time – even in the midst of all the party going and festivities.”

The Bishop visited two local prisons in the past few weeks – joining in their carol services - and will be returning to HMP Lowdham Grange to join with staff and inmates in the prison’s Christmas Day service on Friday.
He said: “Some of the inmates I have met are very aware that their actions have led to ‘empty chairs’ around the Christmas table. Our soldiers serving in Afghanistan will also be missed in homes around the country, so it’s only right we pause and think of all those who are separated at this special time of year for whatever reason.”

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