All for Jesus — The Centenary of the Diocese of Blackburn

Celebrating 100 Years of Faith, Service and Mission

The year 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Diocese of Blackburn — a century since the Diocese was founded in 1926. It’s a moment to give thanks for all that God has done through His people, to celebrate our shared story, and to recommit ourselves to mission and ministry All for Jesus.

 All for Jesus explains, in three simple words, why there is a Diocese of Blackburn and what our purpose is — to live lives devoted to Jesus in worship, service, discipleship, and community.

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Our Centenary Theme: All for Jesus

“All for Jesus” isn’t just a title — it’s a call. It’s the heartbeat of our centenary: everything we do as a Diocese in 2026 is inspired by Christ.
In his centenary message, Bishop Philip North reminds us that for the Christian, everything we do- work, leisure and family life is done in the name of Jesus. He invites us to:

• Serve in Jesus’ name with humility and compassion
• Proclaim Christ boldly with words and deeds
• Trust in His name as our hope and strength for the future

As we begin this special year, Bishop Philip has recorded a centenary homily reflecting on our calling as a Diocese and what it means the live All for Jesus today.

The homily is available to watch on our Diocesan YouTube channel and on the Fruitful app, and is included below for you to watch and reflect on. We encourage everyone across the Diocese to take time to watch, pray, and consider how we each respond to Christ's call in this centenary year.

Centenary Prayer

As we celebrate 100 years of the Diocese of Blackburn, the Centenary Prayer invites all of us to rededicate our lives and our Diocese to God’s service, reflecting on the past, present, and future of mission and ministry All for Jesus.

This prayer is designed to be used across the Diocese — in churches, schools, homes, and gatherings — helping everyone to unite in thanksgiving, reflection, and hope during this special year.
The Centenary Prayer is shared alongside the Diocese’s Vision 2026 Prayer, highlighting the continuity of our faith journey and our commitment to mission for the years ahead. The Vision 2026 Prayer can be found on the Diocese website and our website by clicking here for those who wish to reflect on it together.
We encourage all members of the Diocese to use the Centenary Prayer throughout 2026, whether in personal devotion, congregational worship, or community events, as we give thanks for God’s faithfulness and step forward in hope All for Jesus.

Centenary Highlights & Key Events

Centenary Launch — 4 January 2026 (Epiphany) The centenary year begins on the Feast of the Epiphany. Parishes are invited to mark the launch using special liturgies, prayers, and worship resources prepared for the occasion.

Big Day Out — Saturday 16 May 2026 (Blackpool) A joyful diocesan gathering in Blackpool, with activities for all ages, including games, music, workshops, sports and a community picnic, culminating in a celebration service in St John’s Square.

Diocesan Conference — 6–9 July 2026 A special centenary conference themed “Found by Jesus”, bringing clergy and lay people together for worship, teaching, and fellowship.

Centenary Mission Weekends — 11–13 September 2026 Parishes across the Diocese are encouraged to host simple outreach events in their local communities, inviting others to discover Jesus and share fellowship.

Service of Celebration — Thursday 12 November 2026, 7pm Exactly 100 years after the Diocese was established, we will gather in Blackburn Cathedral for a special service of thanksgiving, remembrance, and hope.

Launch of the New Diocesan Vision — Saturday 14 November 2026 Following the centenary celebrations, we will launch the next diocesan vision, looking ahead with renewed energy and commitment to mission and discipleship.

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Stories & Taking Part

As part of the Blackburn Cathedral Centenary celebrations in 2026, we’re collecting stories, memories and moments that have helped shape a century of life at the Cathedral. These reflections will become an important part of how we remember and celebrate the Cathedral’s role in the life of its community and the Diocese.

We’re looking for contributions that help tell the story of the Cathedral not just as a building, but as a place of worship, welcome, service and shared life. Perhaps you or someone you know:

• Was baptised, married or confirmed in the Cathedral

• Sang in the choir, served as a volunteer or helped behind the scenes

• Took part in a special service, civic event or community project

• Have a memory of seeing the Cathedral evolve over the years

• Have artefacts, memorabilia or photos connected with Cathedral life

• Remember a family member involved in its construction or development

These stories will help bring the Cathedral’s century‑long heritage to life — reflecting the people, moments, and memories that have shaped an important place at the heart of Blackburn and the wider community.

How to share your Cathedral story You are invited to submit your contribution via the Cathedral’s official centenary story gathering process. Whether it’s a treasured memory, an interesting object, or a meaningful moment, every submission helps build a richer picture of this landmark’s past and present. Click here for the submission form or for more information!

Join the Celebration

Whether through worship, mission, storytelling or prayer, 2026 is a year for everyone in the Diocese to reflect, rejoice and renew our commitment to Christ.

For the latest news, resources and full event details, visit:
https://blackburn.anglican.org/all-for-jesus-centenary-of-blackburn

Together, we give thanks for 100 years of God’s faithfulness — and step forward in hope, All for Jesus.