As we approach a historic moment for the Church in Wales, we are invited to come together in prayer for the enthronement of Archbishop Cherry Vann, who will be installed as the 15th Archbishop of Wales at Newport Cathedral on Saturday 8 November 2025.
The days leading up to this occasion form a Novena — nine days of prayer — beginning on Friday 31 October and continuing until the enthronement itself. A novena is an ancient Christian tradition: nine days of focused prayer and reflection before a moment of celebration or renewal. This novena, titled Building Hope, has been prepared by the Dean of Newport, The Revd Ian Black, and draws on themes from Archbishop Cherry’s recent address to the Governing Body of the Church in Wales.
These reflections invite us to pray for:
- A church rooted in prayer
- A people who show love
- A commitment to reconciliation and service
- Integrity, hope, and courage for the journey ahead
Each day combines a Bible reading, a short reflection, and a prayer — connecting with themes like perseverance, power and accountability, and becoming more Christlike. The prayers remind us that faith is not just a private act but a shared journey: “Together we seek to be bearers of light and hope in our nation.”
Why Pray Now?
Moments like an enthronement are more than ceremonies. They are opportunities for renewal — for our leaders, our church, and for each of us. As Archbishop Cherry begins this new chapter of ministry, we are reminded that the Church’s calling is shared by all who follow Christ. Through prayer, we participate in shaping that future, asking that God’s Spirit would inspire unity, compassion, and courage across Wales.
How to Take Part
You can download and follow the Novena for the Enthronement booklet, using it day by day at home, in church, or as part of a group. Each prayer connects with the rhythm of the Church in Wales calendar and invites us to lift up both our Archbishop and the mission of the whole Church.
Whether you join for one day or all nine, your prayers matter.
Together we can help build hope — in our parishes, our communities, and our nation.
A Prayer to Begin
God of hope and joy,
Bless your Church as we seek to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.
Strengthen Archbishop Cherry at the beginning of her ministry,
and through your Spirit, renew us to work for your Kingdom in word and deed,
to the glory of your name.
Amen.