Today is also the Optional Memoria of St Cuthbert, who began his monastic life on Lindisfarne and then, later, in solitude, on the island of Farne. It is said that he met and spoke with seals, who would come to him as he prayed.

We pray today for the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle and for Bishop Stephen Wright, that St Cuthbert will be close to all God’s people there. May God bless you this day.