Church of England’s Christmas campaign invites people to find their ‘calm and bright’

[Church of England] The Church of England has launched its 2024 Christmas campaign, Follow the Star — Calm and Bright, encouraging people across the country to pause amid the busyness of December, find moments of calm and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas at their local church.

The campaign features a series of videos shot using a striking time lapse technique, which places the subject at the heart of hectic, familiar Christmas scenes.

It finds inspiration from the favorite carol “Silent Night,” from which the words “calm and bright” are drawn. The videos contrast the bustle of the season and the stillness depicted in nativity scenes where Mary cradles the newborn Jesus.

Stockport Bishop Sam Corley said, “In the busyness of Christmas preparations, it’s easy to lose sight of the peace and hope at the heart of the season. This year’s campaign is a timely reminder that the story of Christmas invites us into something deeper — moments of reflection, joy, and connection as we celebrate the arrival of a savior in the reality of our world. Churches across the country are opening their doors to welcome everyone to experience that peace and discover that hope this Christmas.”

At the center of the campaign is a powerful call to action — to explore moments of peace and joy this Advent and Christmas by visiting a local church. These messages are shared through seven short films, each telling a unique story of individuals finding calm in church settings. The films are available on the Church of England’s YouTube channel and across social media platforms.

It builds on the success of previous Christmas campaigns. In 2021, the church’s collaboration with the composer Rebecca Dale saw a new version of “In the Bleak Midwinter” reach the number one spot on the classical chart. Last year, the “Join the Song” campaign saw thousands of singers up and down the country join for performances of a brand-new setting of “The First Nowell” by composer and former Kings’ Singer Bob Chilcott.

Figures show a 20% rise in Christmas attendance at churches in England in 2023, marking the third consecutive year of growth.

These campaigns seek to engage creatively with existing and new churchgoers, staying true to the heart of the Christmas message and serving as a reminder that in a world of constant activity, churches are places of stillness and connection with communities and with Jesus.