In her Christmas Day sermon delivered at Gloucester Cathedral, The Rt Revd Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester, explored two profound themes: certainty and mystery.
Against the backdrop of global upheaval, anxiety, and noise, Bishop Rachel acknowledged a deep human longing for both clarity and wonder. Drawing inspiration from the angels’ reassuring message, “Do not be afraid,” she reminded congregants that the mystery of God arriving on earth in Jesus Christ reveals an unshakable certainty—God’s enduring love, hope, and mercy. Even in the darkest moments, the smallest flicker of light holds greater power.
The Bishop urged everyone to lift their eyes, listen attentively for the angels’ song, and embrace their unwavering message of peace and unity.
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She reflected: “What words come to mind when you consider the world this Christmas? For me, it’s ‘certainty’ and ‘mystery.’ As I’ve heard voices from all walks of life — from local communities to global landscapes — it’s clear there’s a yearning for certainty amidst turmoil. Yet there’s also a desire to reach beyond what is visible, to touch mystery.”
Noting the prevalence of angelic imagery during Christmas—from decorations to children dressed as angels—she suggested that truly encountering angels requires looking beyond appearances and listening deeply.
In a world crowded with noise—the chatter of social media, political conflict, cries of pain and joy—it’s difficult to hear the angels’ gentle call. Yet, Bishop Rachel pointed out that the first Christmas was similarly turbulent. Mary and Joseph faced uncertainty and fear, yet angels appeared with the steadfast message, “Do not be afraid.”
The Bishop shared her recent visit to Bethlehem, highlighting the resilience and hope of Palestinian children despite the ongoing challenges they face. She witnessed both the noise of fear and the profound certainty of love and commitment among the people. These experiences deepened her hope that all those struggling with fear, hatred, or injustice—whether locally or globally—might hear the reassuring voice of the angels.
“‘Do not be afraid,’ say the angels. ‘Glory to God in the highest—we bring good news of great joy for all people.’ These yearnings for certainty and mystery live together in the child in the manger. Jesus reveals the unwavering love, hope, justice, and mercy of God.”
She emphasized that God’s love is present everywhere, even where darkness seems to hold sway. The tiniest light is stronger than darkness, and the angels’ song remains, even if hard to hear.
Bishop Rachel also referenced Botticelli’s early 16th-century “Mystical Nativity,” a painting created during a time of political strife. The dancing angels in the artwork symbolize the joyous certainty of God’s love, overpowering darkness and division.
She called us to learn the language of the angels—one of peace, inclusivity, and joy. Reflecting on a recent celebration at Hempsted church where children joyously waved flags of all colours, she highlighted the power of inclusive worship to unite and heal.
As the carol “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” reminds us of the angels’ glorious song amid human brokenness, Bishop Rachel encouraged everyone to hush the noise in our lives and truly listen.
This Christmas, whatever your journey or the noise that surrounds you, in a world craving certainty and mystery alike, may we all listen closely to the angels—both mysterious and certain.
Happy Christmas!