Songs of Praise is a BBC Television religious programme that presents Christian hymns which first aired in October 1961. The first edition was broadcast from the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Cardiff, and the series is one of the longest-running of its kind on television anywhere in the world.
Sean Fletcher is in Glasgow, meeting people for whom a particular copy of the Bible has been life-changing. The programme includes inspiring hymns to sing in the new year.
Claire McCollum is in London to visit Union Chapel, a world-renowned music venue and a diverse worshipping community putting faith into action.
Laura Wright is in Cambridge to meet Christians living out their faith in offices, laboratories and police stations as she explores how faith can flourish on the nine-to-five.
In the first of two programmes on the parables of Jesus, Sean Fletcher meets Christians inspired by one of his most famous stories – the Good Samaritan.
Sean Fletcher meets Christians inspired by Jesus' parables, exploring the profound meaning in the stories of the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin and, most famously, the Prodigal Son.
Claire McCollum visits Lisburn to meet Christians creating welcoming communities, with uplifting hymns from Keith Getty and his wife Kristyn.
Sean Fletcher meets Mobo-award-winning rapper and author Guvna B in east London to reflect on his faith, and the hymns and worship music that inspire him.
For the first Sunday in Lent, Pam Rhodes introduces glorious hymns that reflect the themes of the season, including trial, temptation, sacrifice and God's enduring love.
Aled Jones is in Penarth, south Wales, to celebrate the nation's rich hymn-singing heritage on St David's Day. With rousing Welsh hymns from St Augustine's Church, Penarth.
The Rev Kate Bottley shares stories of inspiring Christian women past and present, including a special interview with the new archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Sarah Mullally.
To mark Mothering Sunday, Claire McCollum is in Liverpool celebrating 150 years of the Mothers' Union and meeting mums inspired by faith to show God's love and care to those in need.
Sean Fletcher is in London to explore how Christians should approach the topic of money and wealth and meets a businessman who turned his back on earning millions due to his faith.
The Rev Kate Bottley explores the deep meaning behind Jesus' final meal, which encapsulates so much of his life, death and resurrection, and why it remains so significant for Christians today.
At the start of the new year, the Rev Kate Bottley visits a stunning earth installation in Bristol Cathedral and meets Christians inspired by faith to care for the environment.
Claire McCollum meets Christians putting faith into action through projects that help the homeless and welcome newcomers. With hymns old and new from Edinburgh's Charlotte Chapel.
To mark the start of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Sean Fletcher visits one of the largest gatherings of different church denominations in Europe.
Pam Rhodes is in Edinburgh to meet renowned singer and actress Barbara Dickson to reflect on the music that has shaped her faith.
The Rev Kate Bottley marks World Cancer Day by exploring how faith can sustain people affected by cancer, and a Christian professor shares why he is dedicated his life to curing the disease.
Claire McCollum is in her home city of Belfast, discovering some of its many hidden religious gems with the help of two Christian tour guides.
Aled Jones explores the joy of being in a choir and joins a packed congregation in Huddersfield Town Hall for rousing hymn singing led by the renowned Huddersfield Choral Society.
Claire McCollum discovers spectacular wall paintings in a Yorkshire village church and explores how traditional and modern art can bring stories of faith alive.
The Rev Kate Bottley explores the belief that laughter is a gift from God and meets clowns and comedians who explain how humour and joy profoundly connect them with their faith.
Sean Fletcher explores the depth of meaning in the prayer spoken by billions every day and meets people whose lives have been profoundly changed by its words.
Sean Fletcher explores the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus's most famous and revolutionary collection of teachings, and meets Christians striving to live them out.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Cheshire to mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week by meeting Christians who champion the strengths of being neurodivergent.
To celebrate Mothering Sunday, Claire McCollum is in Leicestershire, meeting women inspired by their faith to nurture and care for others.
Pam Rhodes is in Northumberland to meet older Christians inspired by their faith to take on new challenges and to encourage others in their senior years.
To celebrate the start of Holy Week, the Rev Kate Bottley discovers how three modern-day Christians have been inspired by the remarkable women of the Easter story.
Aled Jones celebrates Easter Sunday at St George's Roman Catholic Cathedral in London and marks the rare event of the eastern and western churches observing Easter on the same day.
Claire McCollum explores how the power of faith and community can help people in body, mind and spirit, and visits a remarkable church that uses wrestling to improve mental health.
Pam Rhodes marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day by sharing the memories of those who were there and recalling the elation and relief of that glorious day.
Mark De-Lisser hosts a special celebration of inspiring gospel worship from Union Chapel, London, featuring the voices of Michelle John, Wayne Ellington and the Sound Foundation choir.
Laura Wright celebrates God's gift of friendship and explores its heartwarming power by meeting Christians whose faith has been enriched by the love of their friends.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits a community in Wythenshawe, Manchester, to explore how faith is transforming lives with acoustic worship from an unusual prayer cabin in a car park!
Sean Fletcher meets broadcaster, writer and former Songs of Praise presenter Sally Magnusson in the beautiful Scottish countryside to reflect on her faith and favourite hymns.
In a programme packed with music, Pam Rhodes celebrates Pentecost through the hymns and songs that explore the meaning of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the Christian church.
Sean Fletcher is in Margate, in Kent, for Father's Day. He celebrates the importance of earthly fathers as well as the Lord God, our Heavenly Father.
Laura Wright is in London to celebrate how the power of music stirs the soul, touches hearts and strengthens faith and fellowship.
Aled Jones is in Bradford to celebrate it being the UK's City of Culture for 2025. He explores how faith and the arts are coming together to showcase this remarkable multicultural city.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates 160 years of the Salvation Army and its ethos of faith in action. With music from Salvation Army bands, singers and congregations around the UK.
In this season of flower shows and summer blooms, Claire McCollum is in Yorkshire to explore the spiritual significance of gardens and how they can bring people closer to God.
Aled Jones is in Eryri, also known as Snowdonia, to discover a historic church brought back to life, and to celebrate the Welsh language and the great outdoors.
Claire McCollum meets world-renowned hymn writers and artists Keith and Kristyn Getty to explore their journey of faith, with hymns led by Keith, Kristyn and their band in Lisburn.
Pam Rhodes explores the beauty and wonder of God's creation with a feast of hymns and songs that celebrate the natural world.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates 2025's spectacular summer of women's sport and explores the role faith can play on the pitch, from grassroots to grand finals.
Aled Jones explores the mystery and meaning of miracles and asks whether they truly are acts of God and if they still happen in our modern world.
Mark De-Lisser celebrates how hymns sung in childhood can inspire us throughout our lives, and he launches a very special vote to find the nation's favourite school assembly song.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Lincolnshire to meet Christians working to alleviate loneliness, bring communities together and keep church doors open.
Sean Fletcher travels to Chester to explore the deep meaning of the Sabbath and why the ancient teachings on the importance of rest are still so relevant today.
Claire McCollum helps bring in the harvest on a farm in Devon, where faith and farming go back five generations, and introduces favourite harvest hymns.
Aled Jones and the Rev Kate Bottley host the senior semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Gareth Malone, Michelle John and Harry Bradford.
Aled Jones and the Rev Kate Bottley host the junior semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Gareth Malone, Michelle John and Harry Bradford.
Aled Jones and the Rev Kate Bottley host the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Gareth Malone, Michelle John and Harry Bradford.
Pam Rhodes joins three archbishops from different parts of the Church to celebrate the 1,700-year anniversary of the Nicene Creed and explore what it means for Christian unity.
Sean Fletcher joins singer, songwriter and gospel music legend Muyiwa Olarewaju as he shares his extraordinary faith journey and chooses his favourite hymns and worship songs.
On All Souls' Day, the Rev Kate Bottley explores faith, grief and bereavement with Christians in the Midlands and visits a bereavement-friendly church.
Aled Jones marks Remembrance Sunday in Aldershot Garrison, known as the home of the British Army, to hear stories of faith, courage and thanksgiving.
Sean Fletcher is in London to meet world-renowned adventurer, TV star and best-selling author Bear Grylls to reflect upon his faith and favourite hymns.
Aled Jones and Kate Bottley host a joyful singalong of school assembly hymns from Victoria Hall, Bolton. Viral sensation James B Partridge joins them to count down the top 20.
On Advent Sunday, Sean Fletcher begins a series of programmes exploring some of the themes of the Advent season, beginning with stories and hymns celebrating hope.
On the second Sunday of Advent, Claire McCollum continues a series unpacking the themes of the season with a visit to Coventry Cathedral to explore what peace means.
Laura Wright explores the meaning of joy in the Advent season and joins Christians in Bedford for an impromptu carol singalong in the town's shopping centre.
Aled Jones presents a musical feast of traditional carols and festive favourites from the Victoria Hall, Bolton, with special guest performances by Tony Hadley and Phebe Edwards.
In this joyful singalong, Pam Rhodes celebrates the fourth day of Christmas with hymns and carols reflecting on the birth of Jesus and the visit of the Three Wise Men.
To motivate us in our new year resolutions, Sean Fletcher meets some incredible Christians who've been inspired by their faith to make big life changes.
Mark De-Lisser hosts the Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2024, judged by choir maestro Gareth Malone, godmother of UK gospel Karen Gibson and broadcaster Muyiwa Olarewaju.
Mark De-Lisser hosts the Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year final, judged by choir maestro Gareth Malone, godmother of UK gospel Karen Gibson and broadcaster Muyiwa Olarewaju.
To mark International Holocaust Memorial Day, Pam Rhodes explores stories of when hope and refuge were offered by Christians to Jews fleeing the Nazis during the Second World War.
In Newcastle upon Tyne, the Rev Kate Bottley hears how faith and compassion can support prisoners and ex-offenders in their journey to rehabilitation.
As we mark World Day of the Sick, Pam Rhodes visits St Christopher's Hospice in south east London to hear stories of faith and hope from patients and caregivers.
Claire McCollum meets Christians putting faith into action to care for the environment in different ways and discovers cutting-edge technology at a Salvation Army recycling centre.
Aled Jones joins Pam Rhodes to share the hymns and sacred music he most cherishes, from iconic places of worship in London that have been most significant for his life and faith.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Scarborough to mark 200 years of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and reflects on the Christian values at the heart of saving lives at sea.
Rev Kate Bottley is in Stockport to celebrate Mothering Sunday at a Christian-inspired nursery that welcomes children of all abilities, and meets mums empowered by their faith.
To celebrate St Patrick's Day, Claire McCollum is in Northern Ireland meeting Christians inspired by the saint's extraordinary story and following in his footsteps.
On Palm Sunday, Sean Fletcher joins rehearsals for the Trafalgar Square Passion Play and meets stars of The Chosen, a groundbreaking television series on the life of Christ.
Aled Jones visits Canterbury to celebrate Easter at the oldest surviving church in the English-speaking world, and he explores what the message of Easter means to Christians.
To mark World Health Day, Sean Fletcher joins Christians at a spiritual retreat centre in north Wales to explore how faith can impact our health and wellbeing.
Singer Laura Wright shares her favourite hymns and worship songs with Pam Rhodes and reflects on how they have shaped her life and faith.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Newcastle upon Tyne, meeting Christians who are contributing to their communities through their acts of service and selflessness.
Sean Fletcher visits Way Church in Wigan, one of the fastest-growing churches in the UK, to explore how it's serving the community, and he joins them for dynamic worship led by Jake Isaac.
Pam Rhodes celebrates the 75th Anniversary of one of the world's most cherished hymns, How Great Thou Art, and explores the remarkable story of its composition.
For Dementia Action Week, Rev Canon Kate Bottley explores what part faith can play for people facing the profound challenges presented by dementia.
Claire McCollum is in Bognor Regis to celebrate Pentecost, 'the birthday of the church', with Christians preparing for baptism in the sea and modern worship from St Wilfrid Church.
To mark the 200th anniversary of the National Gallery, Aled Jones embarks on an exclusive tour behind the scenes and explores the deep connection between art and Christianity.
To mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Aled Jones is in Portsmouth to meet 99-year-old veteran Stan Ford and to reflect on why it's more important than ever to remember the fallen.
Ahead of Carers Week, the Rev Kate Bottley is in Norfolk, finding out about the importance of faith for some of those caring for their loved ones.
Aled Jones cooks up a storm with some Christian dads taking on a cooking challenge with their children. And he meets the 999 call handler who saved her own father's life.
To celebrate the RSPCA's 200th anniversary, the Rev Kate Bottley visits an animal hospital in Birmingham and meets people who believe animals are a gift from God.
Katherine Jenkins explores the first church garden to be exhibited at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and meets the horticulturist offering a 'green hug' to their visitors.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates the centenary of Liverpool's Anglican cathedral and meets Christians whose faith has been shaped by this remarkable building.
Sean Fletcher enjoys a walk along the beautiful Cornish coast with presenter and author Fern Britton as she reflects on her journey of faith and favourite hymns.
Laura Wright is joined by HRH The Princess Royal in Edinburgh to celebrate the life and faith of Scottish sporting hero, Eric Liddell, 100 years after he won Olympic gold.
In Merthyr Tydfil, Pam Rhodes discovers the surprising story of how the Salvation Army started its work in Wales 150 years ago and explores how it still serves communities today.
Reverend Kate Bottley is in Manchester to explore what it means to be an inclusive church, and she finds out how a tragedy caused one parish to embark on a journey of great change.
Claire McCollum visits The Auckland Project to explore the important role faith has played in the regeneration of one of County Durham's great Christian landmarks.
Sean Fletcher visits a Methodist chapel in Cheshire, where craft and carpentry help to build faith and friendship. And he looks back at when he explored the Japanese art of kintsugi.
Pam Rhodes joins a congregation at St Martin-in-the-Fields, London, to celebrate 100 years of religious broadcasting and meets Christians still sharing faith on air today.
Claire McCollum visits Crathie Kirk in the Cairngorms to discover why the church and the beauty of its Highland location is so beloved by locals, visitors and the royal family.
Inspiring hymns and songs, together with stories of faith from around the UK and beyond.
Claire McCollum is on the Cornish coast to visit the remarkable ‘church of storms', a place of prayer built on the beach where Christians have worshipped for over a thousand years.
Ahead of National Poetry Day, Aled Jones explores the art of putting faith into words through the poetry of the Bible, favourite hymns and the work of modern poet Storm Cecile.
Claire McCollum introduces favourite harvest hymns from Jubilee Farm, Northern Ireland's first community-owned farm, a place with faith at its heart.
Mark De-Lisser introduces uplifting gospel hymns and songs and explores the meaning behind the music, meeting people at the heart of the gospel community.
Laura Wright celebrates the faith of young people and visits a church in Nottingham where the youth congregation has grown so much that it's moved to its own building.
Award-winning saxophonist and broadcaster YolanDa Brown meets Aled Jones to share the story of her faith through the hymns and worship songs that mean the most to her.
Sean Fletcher shares the stories of three Christians who found faith in remarkable ways, including how a TV series helped vicar and broadcaster Giles Fraser to find his faith.
On Remembrance Sunday, Sean Fletcher visits Britannia Royal Naval College in Devon to meet service personnel past and present, and to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Aled Jones and the Rev Kate Bottley host the junior heat of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Katherine Jenkins, Bob Chilcott and YolanDa Brown.
Aled Jones hosts the senior heat of BBC Young Chorister of the Year with judges Katherine Jenkins, Bob Chilcott and YolanDa Brown.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Aled Jones and the Rev Kate Bottley host the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year with judges Katherine Jenkins, Bob Chilcott and YolanDa Brown.
The Rev Kate Bottley explores the nature of some characters that are central to the Christmas story – the angels – and meets Christians with remarkable stories of modern-day angel encounters.
Aled Jones hosts a spectacular celebration of carols from the historic Huddersfield Town Hall, with guests including West End star Marisha Wallace and Huddersfield Choral Society.
Aled Jones hosts an intimate candlelit celebration of favourite carols, with guests Katherine Jenkins and the BBC Young Choristers of the Year, from the village church of Croston.
Pam Rhodes and her fellow Songs of Praise presenters take a moment to pause and reflect on some of their favourite hymns and inspiring stories of faith and hope from 2024.
To sing in the New Year with hymns and songs, Sean Fletcher presents a special Songs of Praise from the beautiful Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff. There's a host of wonderful performers including Katherine Jenkins and Brenda Edwards with a song that means a lot to them both, You'll Never Walk Alone. New opera star Freddie De Tommaso gives his rendition of Nessun Dorma, and the male Welsh voices of Morriston Orpheus Choir perform World In Union. And of course, there are lots of your favourite hymns to sing along with including Tell Out My Soul, Love Divine, God Is Working His Purpose Out, In Christ Alone and Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah.
Claire McCollum visits Olney in Buckinghamshire to celebrate 250 years of one of the most popular hymns in the world, Amazing Grace.On 1 January 1773, John Newton's now famous words were first performed in the parish church where he was curate. 250 years on, Claire visits that same church to discover the remarkable story behind the hymn, the extraordinary life of its composer and the reasons for the composition's enduring power.In Olney, Claire meets local experts who reflect on the life of John Newton, from his early years of debauchery as a sailor and then as a slave trader to his later life as a dedicated clergy man, hymn writer and abolitionist. Claire hears how a moment of epiphany at sea sparked a deep Christian that faith helped him to realise the full horror of his actions and compelled him to spend the rest of his life serving others and striving to abolish the evil of slavery.Claire also meets 30-year-old Jordan Hattee, who shares his own experience of God's amazing grace - when finding faith rescued him from addiction and despair.And Mark DeLisser meets fellow choir master Craig McLeish, who has formed a new gospel choir especially for the Amazing Grace anniversary. Around a piano, they discuss the enduring power of Newton's words and the mystery of what tune they may have first been set to. Mark then joins the gospel choir rehearsing in Newton's church and hears why it is so special to sing the hymn in the place where it was composed, exactly 250 years on.With hymns and songs from around the UK celebrating the grace of God.Music featured1. Amazing Grace – Albert Hall, Nottingham2. When I Survey the Wondrous Cross – St Patrick's Church, Dungannon3. Amazing Grace (He Looked Beyond My Faults) – Brenda Edwards, Llandaff Cathedral4. This Is Amazing Grace – Aberystwyth Arts Centre5. There Is a Wideness in God's Mercy – St Elizabeth's Church, Reddish6. And Can It Be – St Pol De Leon, Penzance
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Leicestershire to explore how faith and the Bible can help people through one of the greatest challenges in life, the loss of a loved one.She meets Abi May, the founder of 'Living with Loss' Christian retreats which help people go through their journey of grief and find a way forward after bereavement. She speaks to some of those who've attended a retreat to learn how it helped them find comfort and solace after their loss. In Liverpool, Kate hears about GraveTalk, a unique CofE initiative where people can come together to share their thoughts and questions about bereavement, dying and funerals in a friendly, helpful space.And Mike Palmer, one of the '3 Dads Walking' tells Kate about how his faith helped him in the aftermath of his teenage daughter's suicide and the inspirational walk he undertook with two other bereaved fathers across the UK to raise awareness.
The Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year is back, hosted by Mark De-Lisser. In the first of two programmes, five of the best amateur choirs from across the UK take to the stage at The Monastery in Manchester. The choirs have to impress three celebrity judges – TV's favourite choir master Gareth Malone; actress, performer and queen of soul Mica Paris; and MOBO award-winning gospel artist and Christian rapper Guvna B.This week's five choirs each perform their take on a traditional hymn. Belfast Community Gospel Choir sing Amazing Grace, BIMM Birmingham Gospel Choir sing Abide with Me, EAGA Gospel Choir from Leicester sing a medley of In Christ Alone with Tis So Sweet, G Choir from Hull sing Take It to the Lord in Prayer, and Birmingham Community Gospel Choir sing Nothing but the Blood. Five fantastic choirs, but which one will be your favourite?
It's the final of Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2023, hosted by Mark De-Lisser. Last week, five of the best amateur choirs from across the UK took to the stage at The Monastery in Manchester. This week, they have a second opportunity to impress the three celebrity judges - TV's favourite choir master Gareth Malone; actress, performer and queen of soul Mica Paris; and MOBO award-winning gospel artist and Christian rapper Guvna B.Each choir performs its own choice of gospel song: Belfast Community Gospel Choir sing Holy, Holy, Holy; BIMM Birmingham Gospel Choir have chosen Never Alone; EAGA Gospel Choir from Leicester perform an African Medley; G Choir from Hull sing Blessing of Abraham; and Birmingham Community Gospel Choir perform I Almost Let Go. The judges have a tough decision to make, but only one choir can become Gospel Choir of the Year.
Aled Jones uncovers hidden gem churches in London with historian and tour guide Joanna Bogle. Starting in Holborn, Aled, along with a small group, is guided down the narrow pathways of the City of London to Fleet Street to hear the fascinating link between the church and journalism. We discover how one church became known as 'the Jerusalem of London', and another, a memorial for the RAF, resonates with tour guide Joanna as she shares the story of her uncle, a pilot who lost his life in the Second World War.Laura Wright visits a recording studio inside the walls of a beautiful church in Mayfair, where daily meditations are recorded and broadcast to over 100,000 people worldwide. Laura also learns how an app has been designed for busy commuters to help fit in time for prayer and reflection on the Gospels.One Grade II listed chapel hidden in the heart of a new property complex in Chelsea is home to an exhibition space for the Prince's Foundation, which offers students the opportunity to study the ancient art of iconography. Irina Bradley, a tutor in traditional arts, explains the symbolism of icons and that she believes God healed her cancer after she prayed before an icon of Mary.
Claire McCollum visits Gretna Green in Scotland as she explores different expressions of God's gift of love.Looking forward to St Valentine's Day, Claire discovers the extraordinary 275-year history of love and marriage at Gretna Green, from young lovers eloping in the 18th century through to the 3,000 couples who still get married in the tiny border village each year. She meets one of the team of local ministers who conduct hundreds of weddings each year and tries her hand at sugar craft with a Christian wedding cake designer.Claire also meets the parents who made history as the first same-sex couple in Scotland to be approved for adoption. Together they reflect on how becoming a family of five has deepened their understanding of love and faith.With hymns and songs from across the UK, all celebrating God's gift of love.
Sean Fletcher is in Lincolnshire to hear how people are preparing for Lent. He joins a group of children from a local Catholic primary school on a visit to Lincoln Cathedral to learn more about the Stations of the Cross, which mark Jesus's last journey to his crucifixion. Sean helps them get creative with their idea to spread the message of Jesus's love by painting 'positivity pebbles'. At St Giles Methodist Church in Lincoln, he meets volunteer Cay Sherlock and hears how vital the warm spaces initiative is, and the free bacon rolls!The Rev Kate Bottley meets Deirdre Speed from Gainsborough, who not only took in a Ukrainian couple fleeing the war but also welcomed their pet pooch.With hymns to sing along to from Lincoln Cathedral, including All My Hope on God Is Founded, O Jesus I Have Promised, and Father Hear the Prayer We Offer. Other hymns are There Is a Green Hill Far Away, Brother, Sister Let Me Serve You, and Raise a Hallelujah. There's also a special performance from youth choir Perfect Pitch.
With St David's Day around the corner, Katherine Jenkins visits Pembrokeshire to meet pilgrims following the ancient trail to St Davids Cathedral. Katherine meets Janet Ingram, who has been leading pilgrimages along the coastline of Wales for over a decade, and finds out how the diocese is celebrating 900 years since the route was officially recognised by Pope Callixtus II in 1123. The group stops at places of significance to Wales's patron saint, including the well where David was baptised as a baby. Along the way, Katherine meets Daniel Jervis, an Olympic swimmer and Christian, who talks about how faith has helped him overcome challenges in sport and his personal life. Also, James Lusted visits one church further north on the pilgrim path, which is undergoing an impressive restoration part-funded by the National Churches Trust. With hymns new and old from St Davids Cathedral and across Wales - and a special performance from Welsh actor and Hollywood star Luke Evans.
To mark International Women's Day, Claire McCollum visits Glasgow to uncover stories of women of faith throughout the ages, including Glasgow's very own St Enoch. Claire traces the roots of the saint, visiting the St Enoch shopping centre in the heart of the city and meeting theologian Helen Bond. They find out how Enoch, a Scottish princess in the 6th century, survived attempted murder and rape before giving birth to Glasgow's founder, Saint Mungo.Claire and Helen visit an impressive mural of St Enoch in the city and discuss why more is not known about women of faith in Christian history. Helen talks about fascinating stories of female biblical figures who played a fundamental role in the church's foundation but of whom little or nothing is known.Laura Wright meets Glaswegian women who are putting their faith into action, including Bayile Adeoti, the creator of a social enterprise that helps women overcome the boundaries to success in business. Also, on Glasgow's south side, Laura meets Audrey Flannagan, the manager of a Trussell Trust food bank, and finds out how faith drives her passion for social justice.Hymns feature congregations across Scotland.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Gloucester Cathedral's Workshop of St Peter to explore the work of its stonemasons throughout its long history, even learning some of their traditional skills herself.The cathedral's stained-glass windows add to the magnificence of the building, and leading artist Thomas Denny reflects on his installation in one of the chapels.Elsewhere in the city, Gemma Hunt meets a woman whose recovery from addiction led her to find faith, which she now relies on to support those in need in the community.With hymns and songs from across the UK that speak of the foundations of faith.
To celebrate Mothering Sunday, Claire McCollum is in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland, to meet remarkable women inspiring the next generation through their faith and devotion.At the Sunday School of St Columb's Cathedral, Claire finds out about the remarkable 'adopt a granny' project, where children are building relationships with elderly parishioners. She joins the children as they prepare special Mothering Sunday goodie bags and hears from the ‘grannies' who so look forward to the children's visits.Claire meets the family of Sister Clare Crockett, whose extraordinary story is inspiring millions around the world. Sister Clare was an ordinary Derry girl who became a nun and was tragically killed in an earthquake in 2016 whilst teaching children in Ecuador. Her sisters reflect on her life of devotion and her legacy.And Claire meets two mothers whose firm friendship is inspiring peace and reconciliation across religious and political divides.With hymns and songs from the Guild Hall in the heart of Derry, that's Songs of Praise for Mothering Sunday.Music featured:1. Now Thank We All Our God – Guild Hall, Derry/Londonderry2. O Brother Man – Guild Hall, Derry/Londonderry3. Come to Jesus – New Irish Arts4. Make Me a Channel of Your Peace – Downpatrick Cathedral5. The Gift Of Music – Margaret Keys6. He Will Hold Me Fast – Guild Hall, Derry/Londonderry7. Be Thou My Vision – Guild Hall, Derry/Londonderry
The Rev Kate Bottley is at Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, described as 'the most perfect English house to survive from the Middle Ages', to explore its hidden treasures, including a 12th-century chapel, medieval kitchen and Elizabethan long gallery. Kate meets some of Haddon's Christian tour guides to hear about the history of the hall and how their faith influences their work.In the wider Derbyshire area, JB Gill visits a farm run by a Christian charity that helps children, young people and families in need. He speaks to the founder about her inspiration for setting up the charity, and also to some of the dedicated staff and students working at the farm.JB also meets a West African chef to hear how faith in God has helped guide her to set up a restaurant in her Peak District farmhouse.
Sean Fletcher celebrates Palm Sunday at Kensington Temple in London and hears how a spirit of welcome is at the heart of their Christian ethos. He joins members of the temple's welcome team on the streets of Notting Hill, where they share news of the church's plans and activities during Holy Week. Sean also discovers the 150-year history of Kensington Temple and the story of the foundation of the Elim Pentecostal movement in the early 20th century.Laura Wright meets a star of stage and screen, Adjoa Andoh, to hear how faith has influenced her life and work, particularly in her role as a lay reader at her church in Herne Hill in London. And Sean joins members of Kensington Temple's Filipino community for a special lunch of their traditional food and hears how important the church has been to their lives and the faith of people from over 100 nations who make up its congregation.
To celebrate the holiest day of the Christian year, Katherine Jenkins is at Chester Cathedral for Easter Sunday to meet the dean of Chester, who explains how they mark this special time of Jesus's resurrection.At the Cathedral's Song School, Laura Wright hears about Handel's famous visit to the city, where today the choristers are rehearsing the composer's Easter anthem Hallelujah!We meet some of the team working on the Chester Mystery Plays and share one woman's story of rediscovering her faith through her involvement. And back at the cathedral, Katherine meets deaf Christians to learn about their experiences of accessing worship and creating positive change in their community.With new music that celebrates the season of hope from an enthusiastic congregation in Chester Cathedral.
Aled Jones travels to the garden suburb of Bournville to explore the faith and philanthropy of the Cadbury family, whose Quaker beliefs inspired the design of their revolutionary factory village. Aled meets heritage manager Daniel Callicott and takes a tour of the original workers' houses and their long and productive gardens, designed to encourage healthy living and to contrast with the squalid inner-city Victorian workhouses of the time. Along the way, Aled meets Caroline Cadbury, the great-granddaughter of the co-founder of Bournville, George Cadbury, and finds out why she believes Quakerism created a spirit of peace and tranquillity.As well as housing, the family invested in schools, recreational centres and places of worship, including a stunning Serbian Orthodox Church, funded in part by the Cadburys for Serbian workers, many of whom were World War II refugees. Aled speaks to Natasha and her grandmother Biserka, a former refugee, about what it meant to the community to have their very own Orthodox church – and the first ever in the UK – built in Bournville.Also, James Lusted meets David Stretton-Downes, a Christian entrepreneur and creator of 'Bobbies Brownies', a start-up founded with the vision to help elevate children out of poverty. They get stuck in making a brownie tray as David tells James about the motivation behind his philanthropic enterprise, viewing his business as an opportunity to help others and his belief that everyone can practice mission work in their everyday lives.
To celebrate St George's Day, Laura Wright heads to the capital to join families uncovering the legendary story of England's patron saint on a dragon-finding walking tour.Later, Laura enjoys a quintessentially English afternoon tea with Chris Brown, a traditional town crier. Plus another chance to catch Aled Jones's interview with D-Day veteran Harry Billinge, who sadly passed away in April 2022.With hymns throughout the programme honouring England's patron saint and a special performance from St Paul's Cathedral Choir.
Ahead of the coronation, Aled Jones visits Highgrove House, the country residence of King Charles and Queen Camilla, to explore the magnificent gardens, a testament to Charles' lifelong desire to champion causes close to his heart, especially the importance of protecting the natural environment.Royal biographer, broadcaster and friend of the royals Gyles Brandreth tells Aled about some of the key events that have shaped the life and faith of the new King. Aled hears about the pioneering work of The Prince's Trust, a charity founded by the King when he left the navy. He also meets a Christian florist to hear how the trust helped her change her life around after serving time in prison.Aled hears from the dean of Westminster Abbey about the spiritual and sacred symbols which will be used in the coronation ceremony.
Katherine Jenkins celebrates the coronation of King Charles III in the magnificent surroundings of Hampton Court Palace and explores how his faith and spirituality will shape his reign.Inside the Great Hall, Katherine talks to royal historian Dr Tracy Borman to discover how echoes of the past still resonate in our monarchy and nations today. Pam Rhodes visits broadcaster and friend of the King, Jonathan Dimbleby, to find out more about His Majesty's deep Christian faith and how this, along with his interest in and respect for other faiths, will influence his role as monarch. Archbishop Angaelos of the Coptic Orthodox Church also shares personal insights into the King's care and support for different Christian traditions and persecuted communities.With favourite hymns from across the UK to celebrate the occasion.
Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, Sean Fletcher explores Christian wellbeing.He meets a couple whose own mental health challenges led them to set up an organisation inspired by kintsugi, the traditional Japanese art of highlighting and celebrating imperfections rather than hiding them. The organisation offers training to churches to become mental health friendly spaces and to run wellbeing groups in their communities.We also revisit the time Kate Bottley put on her trainers to join a group of Christian runners interested in physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing, and we look at the legacy of the 2021 Chelsea Flower Show garden inspired by Psalm 23.The programme includes a performance from last year's BBC Young Chorister of the Year as well as music from around the UK that reminds us, whatever challenges we may face, that God is always with us.
Claire McCollum follows in the footsteps of Saint Patrick and joins two nuns who lead a pilgrimage dedicated to the patron saint, which even involves kayaking in and around County Down in Northern Ireland.The pilgrimage takes in some of the area's most sacred sites, including Saul Church, known as the Cradle of Christianity for Ireland, and which was built on the site of Saint Patrick's earliest known act of Christian worship.Claire also visits one of Ireland's most impressive examples of early gothic architecture, 12th-century Cistercian priory Grey Abbey, and hears the story of its fascinating founder, Princess Affreca, noted for the strength of her religious patronage in the very male-dominated environment of the time. She also experiences one of the jewels of the abbey, the reconstruction of its original physic garden, which offers an insight into medieval medicine and the folklore surrounding many of the herbs that have grown there for centuries.Finally, on the banks of Strangford Lough, Claire meets a local Christian artist whose work reflects themes of faith, the beauty of God's creation and the human experience.
Sean Fletcher visits St Margaret's Church in Westminster, popularly known as a place of worship for MPs and members of the House of Lords. Sean finds out what role the church plays in the day-to-day life of politicians and during significant moments in parliamentary history, including VE Day in 1945, when Winston Churchill led MPs from the House of Commons to St Margaret's for a unique thanksgiving service to mark the end of the war. Sean also gets an exclusive insight into the workings of Parliament, meeting the chaplain to the speaker of the House of Commons and finding out about the daily tradition of opening prayers inside the chamber.Pam Rhodes meets members of Christians in Politics, an organisation that actively seeks to bring together Christians from different political parties for prayer and fellowship. Pam also talks to Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse who, helped by the strength of their faith, campaigned for a change in legislation after the tragic death of their daughter. With hymns new and old from congregations across the UK and to celebrate Pentecost Sunday Gospel Singer of the Year, Patrice Campbell performs a special hymn invoking the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Rev Canon Kate Bottley is at the Angel of the North for its 25th anniversary to discover the inspirational power of this spectacular sculpture.We meet the artist who designed the piece, Sir Antony Gormley, to hear about his process and intent for the project. The former Bishop of Jarrow tells Kate how the Angel offered a place of prayer and worship and shares his belief in the hope that angelic figures can offer. Before joining a local family on an angel adventure, Kate finds out about the original Angel of the North, Sister Winifred Laver, who dedicated her life to helping others.
Katherine Jenkins visits Syon House in west London to discover its rich Christian history and to look back on some of her favourite moments on Songs of Praise.In the grounds of Syon House by the Thames, Katherine hears about the enormous medieval abbey that once stood on the site and the radical community of priests and nuns that lived there.Katherine recalls her trip to Caldey Island off the coast of south Wales, one of Britain's most ancient holy sites where one of the monks, Brother David, tells her about the spiritual heritage of the island, which stretches back over 1,400 years.There is another chance to see Katherine's visit to the chapels within the iconic Tower of London when she met the first female Beefeater. Then, from the ancient to the modern, Katherine recalls her time in the thriving Gas Street Church in Birmingham, home to a congregation of over 1,000 people.With music from across the UK, including Katherine's favourite hymns and an exclusive performance from Hollywood star Luke Evans.
Aled Jones travels to the garden suburb of Bournville to explore the faith and philanthropy of the Cadbury family, whose Quaker beliefs inspired the design of their revolutionary factory village. Aled meets heritage manager Daniel Callicott and takes a tour of the original workers' houses and their long and productive gardens, designed to encourage healthy living and to contrast with the squalid inner-city Victorian workhouses of the time. Along the way, Aled meets Caroline Cadbury, the great-granddaughter of the co-founder of Bournville, George Cadbury, and finds out why she believes Quakerism created a spirit of peace and tranquillity.As well as housing, the family invested in schools, recreational centres and places of worship, including a stunning Serbian Orthodox church, funded in part by the Cadburys for Serbian workers, many of whom were World War II refugees. Aled speaks to Natasha and her grandmother Biserka, a former refugee, about what it meant to the community to have their very own Orthodox church – and the first ever in the UK – built in Bournville.Also, James Lusted meets David Stretton-Downes, a Christian entrepreneur and creator of Bobbie's Brownies, a start-up founded with the vision to help elevate children out of poverty. They get stuck into making a brownie tray as David tells James about the motivation behind his philanthropic enterprise, viewing his business as an opportunity to help others and his belief that everyone can practise mission work in their everyday lives.
Aled Jones is on the Isle of Man to discover how the roots of Christianity stretch back over 1,500 years.He visits Cathedral Isle of Man and learns about the story of Saint German of Man. Aled also discovers how the rich Christian history of the island is portrayed in the cathedral's unique, interactive gardens.Further afield, Aled meets a Christian shepherdess and her flock to hear about a rewilding initiative in a local church's grounds. Then at Café Lingo, he learns about an English language teaching enterprise led by a methodist church to help new arrivals to the island, with an ethos inspired by the Bible's stories of welcome.Back at the cathedral, Aled meets some of the volunteers who tend to the gardens and hears how faith influences their work and what made them to want to help.
Kate Bottley travels to Preston to learn about the Temperance Movement, which began life in the north west of England in the Victorian era. We join the successors to an original children's temperance society, who are continuing to bring opportunities to young people through alcohol-and-drugs education courses.In Burnley, YolanDa Brown meets a local pastor, whose journey to sobriety brought her into a deeper connection with her faith. And Kate has a chance to try some alcohol-free cocktails, catching up with the regulars at the country's oldest surviving temperance bar.
Katherine Jenkins joins celebrations at the Roman Catholic cathedral in Arundel, West Sussex, marking the Feast of Corpus Christi. The festivities include a spectacular carpet of flowers and a procession from the cathedral to the castle.Katherine meets the Duke of Norfolk, who explains the legacy of his relative, the 15th Duke, who introduced the beautiful floral custom to Arundel over 140 years ago. And we hear from the flower carpet designer about the symbols in this year's display.Bishop Richard Moth explains the spiritual importance of Corpus Christi, which for Catholics is a celebration of the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, and Katherine meets some of those participating in the procession, including a child who has recently taken her first Holy Communion.At Arundel Castle, we revisit the time Katherine met a gardener whose faith has been instrumental in her life and work.With music that celebrates the Eucharist and an a cappella performance from vocal harmony group Stellina at Blenheim Palace.
Pam Rhodes embarks on a personal journey, from the south coast of England to the south Midlands, to reflect on the people, places and pieces of music that have shaped her Christian faith.Beginning in the naval town of Gosport, where she lived as a teenager, Pam reflects on her childhood, the foundations of her faith and the life-long love of hymns inherited from her mother. She is reunited with the sisters whom she mentored whilst teaching dance classes in a Christian Youth Club in the 1970s and returns to St Albans Cathedral, where she recorded her very first Songs of Praise programme in 1987.Pam meets up with her friend, worship leader Dave Bilbrough, to discuss the importance of pilgrimage in her life and how it helped her at a time of heartbreak and difficulty. At home with her family, Pam shares her thoughts on the blessings of grandchildren and the inspiration of those who have demonstrated faith in action throughout her life.With hymns from across the UK that are all close to Pam's heart.
Claire McCollum visits the Corrymeela Community, Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation organisation.
Sean Fletcher visits St Bartholomew's church in London, the UK's oldest hospital, to discover how it began life as a monastery, and finds out how faith is still at work today in the church.
Claire McCollum visits the historical and religious sites of Colchester, Britain's oldest recorded town since its foundation during the Roman occupation over 2,000 years ago.
Aled Jones is in the Welsh valleys, discovering their rich history of Christian faith and revival and meeting local people whose faith inspires and motivates them today.
Three hundred years after the death of Sir Christopher Wren, the Rev Kate Bottley is in London to explore some of the city churches designed by this master architect.
Aled Jones explores some of the extraordinary history and inspirational stories from Canterbury Cathedral, with rousing hymns from a packed congregation.
Sean Fletcher is at a beach mission in north Wales, exploring how young people use music, sports and chat-making activities in the great outdoors in a combination of fun and faith.
Rev Kate Bottley celebrates the 50th anniversary of Greenbelt Christian Arts Festival, joining 12,000 people gathered for its unique mix of artistry, faith and activism.
Katherine Jenkins meets organist Anna Lapwood in Cambridge to explore the sacred sound of the church organ and finds out why many are at risk of being destroyed.
Claire McCollum celebrates harvest at Hazelnut Community Farm in Bristol and hears how they've brought their church into the great outdoors with gardening as an act of worship.
To mark National Adoption Week, Aled Jones hears inspiring stories of faith and family, and former world champion javelin thrower Fatima Whitbread shares how adoption changed her life.
Sean Fletcher joins the congregation at one of Britain's biggest Baptist churches and finds out how they are celebrating their roots and heritage this Black History Month.
Claire McCollum discovers some of Edinburgh's fascinating religious places with a tour of some of its oldest churches to see why and how they inspire our faith to this day.
Aled Jones finds out how Christian faith helped one mother cope after the tragic loss of her two daughters. Plus, the extraordinary story behind the hymn It Is Well with My Soul.
Katherine Jenkins marks Remembrance Sunday at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire, the oldest air academy in the world, while Sean Fletcher visits the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial.
Aled Jones hosts the junior semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Laura Wright, Ken Burton and Wynne Evans.
Aled Jones hosts the senior semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year from the Manchester Monastery, with judges Laura Wright, Ken Burton and Wynne Evans.
On the first Sunday in Advent, Aled Jones and Rev Kate Bottley host the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year, with judges Laura Wright, Ken Burton and Wynne Evans.
Pam Rhodes discovers the fascinating stories behind some of our most-loved Christmas carols, and the Songs of Praise presenters reveal their own personal favourites.
Kate Bottley visits County Durham to see how a primary school has teamed up with residents from a local care home to perform a church nativity play.
Aled Jones is in Sheffield City Hall for a celebration of carols, with guests Katherine Jenkins, Strictly's Tommy Blaize, the BBC Young Choristers of the Year and Michael Ball.
Katherine Jenkins is joined by special guests Aled Jones, The Gospel Choir of the Year and classical soprano Carly Paoli as they sing the New Year in from Sheffield City Hall.
The Rev Kate Bottley joins runners and dancers to explore connections between faith and fitness, and Paralympian Kadeena Cox speaks about relying on God through tragedy and triumph.
Sean Fletcher is in Liverpool to discover why baptism is so important to Christians and how Jesus's baptism is celebrated by different denominations at this time of year.
Aled Jones is in Bristol visiting Brunel's ship SS Great Britain and the city's Christian street art, and Gemma Hunt joins HM Coastguard's first ever chaplain on a mud rescue.
The Rev Kate Bottley meets Christians who have experienced how the power of the Bible can change lives, and Gemma Hunt visits a Messy Church.
Mark De-Lisser hosts the semi-final of the Gospel Singer of the Year competition. Who will amaze the judges, Mica Paris, Carrie Grant and CalledOut Music, and make it to the final?
It's the final of the Gospel Singer of the Year competition, hosted by Mark De-Lisser, with judges Carrie Grant, CalledOut Music and Mica Paris.
Katherine Jenkins meets Christians showing love and kindness to others, and we remember archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Claire McCollum goes on a Christian heritage tour of Edinburgh and discovers the faith of Scottish sporting hero Eric Liddell. With hymns and songs from across Scotland.
Katherine Jenkins visits St David's College, where higher education began in Wales, and James Lusted hears why some people wear a leek rather than a daffodil on St David's Day.
Claire McCollum visits Sunderland to discover how the city's Christian links to the glassmaking industry stretch back over 1,300 years.
The Rev Kate Bottley meets the monks at Mount St Bernard's Abbey and samples their renowned Trappist beer. YolanDa Brown visits the world's oldest bell foundry.
In Birmingham, Katherine Jenkins joins members of the lively and growing young congregation at Gas Street Church. Its lead pastors, Tim and Rachel Hughes, describe their journey of faith and trust in God, leaving London with their family to start the new church in 2015.Laura Wright meets Christian sisters Eman and Sanchia, who were born as conjoined twins. They survived an operation to separate them and are now thriving 20-year-olds.In Birmingham's famous Jewellery Quarter, Norma Jean Murrain explains how her deep faith led her to start a jewellery-making training school for young people. And members of Gas Street Church's congregation tell Katherine how they have seen God at work in their own journeys of faith.Hymns and songs from Gas Street and the wider Birmingham area reflect the Christian call to deeper faith and trust in God, including: Love Won't Stop, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, The Lord's My Shepherd, By the Grace of God, Take My Life and Let It Be, Spirit Break Out and Ten Thousand Reasons.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Derbyshire, celebrating Mothering Sunday with mums from across the generations. She joins a baby massage class run by Nicky Daubney and hears about the role faith and human touch played in helping one baby recover from sepsis. We visit Woodleigh Christian Care Home in nearby Mansfield and share in a daughter's joy as she hugs her 92-year-old mum for the first time in months. Laura Wright meets Pip Peacock who, back in 2019, prayed for help when she nearly died after being trampled by a herd of cows whilst out walking in the Peak District, and we meet Katherine and Hannah, a mother and daughter who help to run the youth group at Reach Church in Derby. There's also new music from Reach including the family favourite My Lighthouse, and the young choir Perfect Pitch perform The Lord Bless You and Keep You at the stunning Derbyshire stately home, Chatsworth House.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Hereford to discover how faith has been put into practice by local Christians past and present. She visits Hereford Cathedral, a site of worship for over 1,300 years, to find out how the cathedral staff have recently played a leading role in improving the experience for visitors with sensory issues. She also joins some local children on the cathedral's unique Sensory Trail.JB Gill hears about a project that teaches invaluable first aid skills to young people, and he volunteers to help those who find themselves in need during a night out in Hereford. And we hear from a local cheesemaker about the role her relationship with God plays in her life and work.
Katherine Jenkins visits Winchester to see how they are marking Palm Sunday. She discovers what happened when Jesus entered Jerusalem and learns about the annual Palm Sunday parade that takes place in Winchester, ending at the cathedral. She also visits the local hospice, which is now the permanent home of a former Chelsea Flower Show garden based on Psalm 23.JB Gill spends a night out with the city's street pastors, who offer help and prayers to the vulnerable, and we meet a former inmate from HMP Winchester who is now a spoken word performer, with God at the heart of his work. With hymns from Winchester cathedral including Palm Sunday classics Ride On, Ride On in Majesty and All Glory, Laud and Honour, plus a special performance of The Truth by Alexandra Burke.
Sean Fletcher follows in the footsteps of saints and pilgrims to celebrate Easter on the holy island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland.Sean joins the Northern Cross pilgrims who have been walking to Holy Island every Easter for nearly 50 years. With the tide safely out, the group sets off barefoot for the final three miles across the sands. Once on the island, Sean discovers its extraordinary Christian history, which stretches back 1,400 years, and learns about the Lindisfarne Gospels – an exquisite work of art and dedication to God produced on Holy Island in the 8th century. He also reflects on the meaning of Easter with a group from inner city Birmingham who come to Holy Island as part of their leadership programme.With hymns and songs to celebrate Easter from across the UK.
Katherine Jenkins visits Paisley Abbey in Scotland, where she meets their newly appointed female minister, the Rev Elspeth McKay, and the director of music, George McPhee, who demonstrates the magnificent 150-year-old organ. Russell Macmillan, who is registered blind, explains why he helps those in need in East Renfrewshire with small acts of kindness that make a big difference. Local Christian Liz New tells Katherine why she felt compelled to help those in Ukraine, and we find out what other Christian charities are doing to help. YolanDa Brown meets John and Isobel Gibson, whose faith helped them cope when their son Cameron tragically took his own life.With comforting and uplifting music from around Scotland, including the hymns Praise My Soul the King of Heaven and All My Hope on God Is Founded, and a performance of What a Friend We Have in Jesus by the band Celtic Worship.
Aled Jones visits Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire, the largest monastic ruins in the UK, to investigate its hidden treasures, including some remarkable new evidence about the community of monks and lay brothers who lived there. Fountains Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Aled hears from Justin Scully, the general manager, about how his faith influences his management of such an important historical site and the staff and volunteers who work there.Locally based singer-songwriter Phillipa Hanna tells Aled about how having a baby encouraged her to examine questions of her identity and relationship with God. We also meet a local farmer who has turned over her land to llama trekking and hear how her work with these unique animals allows her to put her faith into action by helping others.
Claire McCollum joins thousands of Christians in Minehead, Somerset, for ‘Spring Harvest', the annual festival that combines a holiday with worship, music and fun for all ages.For over 40 years ‘Spring Harvest' has attracted Christians from many different denominations to gather at holiday camps to renew, discuss and celebrate their faith. Claire meets three generations of one family who have been coming to Spring Harvest since the early days and joins them for the energetic all-age worship services. She goes ‘backstage' with some of the main worship leaders and preachers and discovers more about the purpose and power of bringing so many Christians together.Claire also discovers how worship is being made more accessible in innovative ways at a creative worship session for adults with learning disabilities. She also enjoys a game of ten pin bowling with young leaders to hear how Spring Harvest inspires faith and friendship in teenagers.With inspiring worship music from the Spring Harvest main stage and a congregation of 2000 people raising the roof in praise.
To mark National Children's Day, Aled Jones visits Great Ormond Street Hospital in London to hear stories of faith and hope. In the Victorian splendour of the hospital's St Christopher's chapel, Aled meets the chaplain to find out how her role differs from chaplaincy in other hospitals, given the patients are all children. He also meets Caitlan, a 16-year-old heart transplant recipient whose road to recovery involved spending 262 days at the hospital.JB Gill joins a 22-mile walk from Kent to Great Ormond Street to raise awareness of a child who lost her life to a rare disease, and we find out about Mary Seacole, the Jamaican nurse who ended up on the front line of the Crimean War. Our hymn selection contains children's classics including Morning Has Broken and We Are Marching.
Celebrating 1,900 years since the building of Hadrian's Wall, the Rev Kate Bottley visits Northumberland to unearth evidence of early Christianity at the nearby Roman settlement of Vindolanda. Mark De Lisser meets members of the Manchester Survivor's Choir, five years on from the Manchester Arena Bombing, and Kate gets to experience the peace and reflection that comes from birdwatching on Northumberland's beautiful east coast. With hymns from St Andrew's Church in Corbridge.
Sean Fletcher is in the stunning setting of Snowdonia, an area celebrating 70 years since its designation as a National Park, to discover how faith has been put into practice by local Christians past and present. He visits the 5th-century coastal church of St Tanwg to hear about the roots of Christianity in Snowdonia and discovers how the arrival of Celtic missionaries in north Wales in the 5th and 6th centuries led to an era of Christian influence that became known as the Age of Saints.James Lusted visits the Ffestiniog Railway, the oldest independent railway company in the world, to hear about the role the railway has played in the life and slate-mining history of the local community. We also discover the story of an iconic hotel that stands in the shadow of Mount Snowdon and has been pivotal in the history of mountaineering, most significantly in relation to the successful British expedition to be the first in the world to climb Mount Everest in 1953, led by Sir Edmund Hillary. And Sean meets a volunteer with a local conservation charity devoted to balancing the demands of tourism in the Snowdonia National Park.
Aled Jones and Pam Rhodes celebrate HM the Queen's platinum jubilee at a street party in Eton, looking across the Thames to Windsor Castle. With local people and special guests, they reflect on the Queen's remarkable reign and the strong Christian faith that has been the foundation of her life.Historian Kate Williams takes questions about the Queen from local school children before joining Aled in St George's Chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle. There she explores what has made the Queen's reign so exceptional and sets out how Christianity is such a key element of her role and her life.Back at the street party, local people recall treasured memories of meeting the Queen in and around Windsor, firefighters and military veterans reflect on Her Majesty's life of service, and authors Mark Greene and Catherine Butcher share insights from their books about the Queen's faith.With hymns for the occasion recorded at the magnificent chapel of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and special performances from Katherine Jenkins and Kingdom Choir.
To mark its sixtieth anniversary, the Rev Kate Bottley visits Guildford Cathedral to hear stories of faith and hope. She learns how construction was abandoned during the Second World War, but 200,000 people paid half a crown each in a Buy a Brick campaign to get the building finished. Kate also learns that women played key roles in the design of the building and are celebrated in much of the imagery and sculpture.Katie Piper meets Elizabeth and Fernando Jimenez to hear the extraordinary story of how they forgave the man who killed their daughter through dangerous driving, and took him into their home. Back at the cathedral, the dean takes her to the vaults, where great-grandmother Sally Courtney launders all the cathedral surplices as a service to God. We visit the Seed Community at Waverley Abbey, where a new prayer garden designed and built by the community offers reflection and solace, and we have glorious hymns sung in the cathedral including Lead Us, Heavenly Father, Lead Us.
Aled Jones celebrates Father's Day in Watford and hears about MFF or Music, Football, Fatherhood, an organisation helping fathers and fathers-to-be navigate some of the challenges and anxieties around becoming a dad.Aled meets its founder, Elliot Rae, to hear how a traumatic experience during the birth of his daughter encouraged him to set up MFF. Aled and Elliot attend an event where fathers are encouraged to open up about their experiences and learn new skills.Meanwhile, a single father talks about about how his faith influences and helps with his role as a parent to six adopted children with additional and complex needs. And JB Gill visits a Nottingham-based community project using sports training to empower young people to keep away from gangs and antisocial behaviour.
Claire McCollum visits the Baptist Assembly in Bournemouth to find out more about the 400-year-old Christian denomination. She meets Lynn Green, the general secretary of Baptists Together, who explains how the Baptist denomination first came about and what they do today. She also meets Fiona Firestone, who suffered a debilitating stroke, but whose recovery was helped by her Baptist family. Gemma Hunt helps to create some sacred art, and we meet a Ukrainian family who have fled their homeland, swapping the city streets of Apostolove for the valleys of Wales after being offered a new home by a British Christian family. Plus, we have music including Love Divine, The Lion and the Lamb, and Way Maker.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits Leeds Cathedral and joins the ranks of its junior choir. She speaks to the children about the faith, fun and friendship that inspire thousands of children to sing in the cathedral choirs and in choral groups across Yorkshire.In nearby Bradford, Radzi Chinyanganya tries culinary creations from around the world at a Christian café helping refugees, and he visits a Leeds youth club experiencing Bible stories through virtual reality.Back in Leeds Cathedral, Kate meets some of its unique, international congregation, and in the Lady Chapel she reflects with the Dean on the profound place Mary the mother of Jesus holds in the Catholic tradition.With hymns from Leeds Cathedral and across the UK.
Claire McCollum joins Christians aboard a tour boat on Loch Ness to find out about the fifth-century legend of Saint Columba's encounter with the Loch Ness monster! Also, on the 150th anniversary of the Open Championship, Claire heads to St Andrews for a round of golf with historian Roger McStravick. Claire hears about famous golf-course designer Tom Morris, a committed Christian who designed elements of St Andrews' Old Course using Biblical references such as Hell's Bunker and the Valley of Sin. And in Inverness, two priests from Nigeria tell their story of evangelisation in rural communities in Scotland by using the social media video platform TikTok to attract younger people to church.
Aled Jones is in Birmingham, host city for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, to hear Christian stories around this international celebration of sport. He meets Andy Street, metro mayor of the West Midlands, to hear what hosting the games mean for the people of Birmingham, and he also discovers how the city's church community has been working with local schools on a project to highlight the stories and legacy of the Commonwealth Games. Aled meets former and current stars of UK athletics to hear why the Commonwealth Games are so important and how faith can help with the challenges of elite competition. And renowned conductor, composer and Songs of Praise music director Ken Burton tells us about a collaborative music venture with local a cappella quintet Black Voices and an 800-strong amateur choir to celebrate the arrival of the games in the city.
The Rev. Kate Bottley visits the Springfields Festival Gardens in Lincolnshire to discover the healing power of faith, flowers and trees and to explore the prominence plants have in the Bible. She meets a florist and author whose life has been changed by flowers and learns more about the long floral tradition of churches in Lincolnshire and around the UK.Kate also looks back at some favourite features from the show, including the time when Aled Jones went to meet his old friend Alan Titchmarsh at Kew Gardens and when JB Gill heard about how becoming a tree surgeon helped one man overcome his struggles with addiction.Featuring music from inspiring gardens and churches across the UK.
Katherine Jenkins meets creative Christians in Torbay and discovers the fascinating history of the ancient Torre Abbey. Abbey manager Lucinda Heron takes us through the building's rich history, and we meet head gardener Ali Marshall, who has been faithfully maintaining the beautiful grounds for 14 years.Katherine also speaks to Martin Harris, leader of Christian drama company Unleashed, which helps support locals struggling with homelessness and addiction by teaching them to perform. The company's most recent, award-winning film project tells the story of how one of Torbay's churches became one of the UK's first to be open to people who could not afford to pay for pews.Gemma Hunt meets Geoff Ward, aka Sandyman, who believes God helps him create amazing pictures in the sand, including one of the Songs of Praise logo. Tapestry artist Jacqui Parkinson demonstrates how she creates her splendid, silk-woven panels depicting stories from the Bible. Her most recent exhibition, Threads through Creation, is on its latest stop at Exeter Cathedral, and dean Jonathan Greener talks about what it means to host the installation.Plus hymns sung outdoors in different locations around Britain's beautiful coastline.
Katherine Jenkins visits Capernwray Bible School and Christian Holiday Centre in the Lancashire village of Carnforth to meet people diving deeper into their faith, including one family of three generations who attend each year. After getting stuck in with some face and hand painting, Katherine meets students and staff from the school to learn about the history of Capernwray Hall, a stunning 175-acre estate purchased by evangelist W Ian Thomas in 1947 to create a place for young people to learn about Jesus. Katherine also recalls stories from previous episodes of the series in which the Bible has proved to be an inspiration, including in 2018 when JB Gill met a young man who decided not to take his own life after finding and reading a free Bible in a hotel room. Our hymns feature church congregations from across the UK, there's outdoor worship from Eastbourne Bandstand and Nettwood Farm in Bristol, and the BBC's Young Chorister of the Year Ruby sings in Guildford Cathedral.
Aled Jones joins a gang of intrepid walkers to celebrate the power of pilgrimage on the Wales Coast Path. Now in its tenth year, coast path officer Tricia Cottnam tells Aled about their collaboration with the National Churches Trust to create nine new walking trails at various sacred heritage sites along the route. Aled joins the walkers along a 14km stretch of the path, beginning at one of these sacred heritage sites, St Dogmaels Abbey. Along the way he speaks to walker and singer Suzi McGregor, who tells him how walking the Camino de Santiago inspired her to write a song.Further north, at St Collen's Church in Llangollen, James Lusted meets Father Lee Taylor, whose weekly Hymns and Pimms livestreams during lockdown became so popular he continued them even after churches reopened. James joins the self-proclaimed ‘warblers' at their first in-person Hymns and Pimms gathering since doors closed and talks to those who found it to be a saving grace during such tough times.Back on the coast path, our walkers are greeted at their destination, another sacred heritage site, Holy Cross Church at Mwnt. Aled is shown inside by church organist Auriol Williams, who explains the important role the church has played for pilgrims over the centuries.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show, one of Britain's oldest, to reveal the Christian stories in this celebration of the countryside. She meets volunteers to hear about the show's history and what it represents for the faith and farming heritage of local communities. She gets hands-on with some prize-winning livestock and investigates the on-site church tent while enjoying the sights and sounds of an agricultural fair.There's also another chance to see when JB Gill met the son of the renowned author of the All Creatures Great and Small books, and we revisit the time when Katie Piper met Christians offering hope and friendship to fellow farmers during tough times.
Sean Fletcher joins Christians gathering in Hertfordshire at High Leigh, a 19th Century Manor House, which for 100 years has welcomed churches from all denominations to worship together and celebrate Christian unity.Sean uncovers the history of the estate, a grand and beautiful former family home transformed into a centre for all Christians to come together. After worship and study, Sean gets stuck into a football match with guests at High Leigh learning how Christians can use sport to bring people together in a fun way.Pam Rhodes heads to Westminster to join faith leaders and politicians attending a special 'prayer breakfast' organised by the UK Coptic Orthodox Church to raise awareness for persecuted Christians all around the world.And in Luton, ten trainee hospital chaplains are invited on an interfaith walking tour of the borough, visiting several places of worship with the Christian charity Grassroots to deepen their understanding of different faith traditions.
Aled Jones reflects on the extraordinary life and deep faith of Her Majesty the Queen.
Aled Jones and Pam Rhodes reflect on hymns and songs of significance during the life and reign of HM the Queen, including Praise My Soul, Lord for the Years and Great is Thy Faithfulness. With a special performance of Sing from the Royal Albert Hall, written to mark Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, and Our Father by the Kingdom Choir from the Royal Naval College Chapel in Greenwich.
To mark the harvest season, Aled Jones is in East Anglia to find out what the annual celebration means to local Christians and to talk about the importance of caring for creation. He finds out all about ‘wool churches' at Holy Trinity in Long Melford, and learns about the links between Christianity and agriculture.Parishioner Sally McDonald tells Aled about the fundraising drive she pioneered to have the magnificent stained-glass windows in the church restored. Laura Wright talks to Christian farmer John Pawsey, who, after four generations of traditional farming, decided to make his family business organic; and Aled visits Christian-run nature reserve Foxearth Meadows to hear about the transformative power of God's creation.In this time of celebration of feast and bounty, we also reflect on those who are struggling: Charlotte Webb tells her story of overcoming hardship and finding faith through Christian organisation Lightwave. Having come to Lightwave for help with food, Charlotte found trust and support and was able to build a relationship with Jesus, turning her life around for the better.We have hymns and music from Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford, The Priory in Hertfordshire and Nettwood Farm in the Mendip Hills.
The Rev Kate Bottley explores Carlisle Cathedral as it celebrates its 900th anniversary. She discovers its monastic origins and joins visitors enjoying a specially commissioned art installation that invites people to 'rest under the stars' and take a closer look at the cathedral's unique star-spangled ceiling.Kate visits the nearby village of Wigton to meet Rev Richard Corrie in his chip shop. Alongside helping to fry her own supper, she chats to Richard about how his three unusual jobs – working as a vicar, a radio DJ and chip shop owner – are all part of his ministry.James Lusted joins young people climbing, walking and splashing their way through the great outdoors at the Kepplewray Centre in the Lake District. He learns about the centre's Christian ethos and how it makes adventures accessible for young people of all backgrounds and abilities.With hymns from St Cuthbert's Carlisle and around the UK.
Sean Fletcher is in London to investigate how gospel music, with roots in the 19th-century hymnals of people of African-Caribbean descent, helps shape life and faith in the UK.At the royal unveiling of a monument commemorating the Windrush generation at London's Waterloo Station, we meet a passenger who arrived here in 1948 onboard the famous ship. Sean experiences the sights, sounds and excitement of Soul at St James's, a monthly gospel singing workshop and choir performance with a mission to spread faith and joy. He also meets an internationally renowned blind steel-pan player to hear about the importance of the instrument to Trinidadian culture and the significance of his Christian faith.With music from LSO St Luke's, Trinity Baptist Church in Croydon and Kensington Temple alongside a performance from Mica Paris.
For Christians in Manchester, there's plenty to celebrate this year as institutions across the city mark milestone moments in their history. Katherine Jenkins is at Manchester Cathedral to find out about a 600-year royal charter and to explore the building's long past and its place in the city.In MediaCity, the Rev Kate Bottley meets Paul Kerensa, who has written a book about the BBC's 100 years of public broadcasting and tells the story of the corporation's first director general John Reith's spiritual inspiration and mission to produce faith programmes.Kate also joins the bishop of Salford in his back garden to discuss the 60th anniversary of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) and witness how their international work is being brought back to the diocese.Music comes from Manchester Cathedral and the local area.
Sean Fletcher embarks on a personal journey across London and south Wales, reflecting on the people, places and music that have shaped his Christian faith.He meets up with one of his oldest friends to talk about the time he first heard about Christianity as a teenager, and he traces his path from that early commitment, through times of doubt and rejection, to rediscovering his faith in his twenties. In south Wales, he visits one of the most influential figures for his family and his faith, his mother-in-law Nesta. And in London, with his friend the comedian Sally Philips, he discusses the importance of having the support of fellow Christians on life's journey.With hymns chosen by Sean for what they have meant to him throughout his faith journey.1. I Will Sing the Wondrous Story – Salisbury Cathedral2. How Deep the Fathers Love For Us – Holy Trinity Church, Platt3. Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer – St Davids Cathedral4. Jesus Christ, I Think Upon Your Sacrifice – The Albert Hall, Nottingham5. All I Once Held Dear – Kendal Parish Church6. Cornerstone – The Church of Christ the Cornerstone, Milton Keynes
Katherine Jenkins is in the Kingdom of Fife, where she visits the 11th-century Dunfermline Abbey and hears the story of its royal founder, Saint Margaret of Scotland.Sean Fletcher meets former prime minister Gordon Brown to hear about the Big Hoose Project, a local social enterprise that has seen millions of pounds' worth of donated household goods distributed to children and families living in poverty across Fife.We meet local resident Karen, diagnosed with early onset dementia, and her husband George to find out how their Christian faith influences living with a dementia diagnosis, and the hope they find in believing that ‘God is in control'. And Katherine meets teachers and children from Dunfermline High School to hear about an art and audio-visual project they're undertaking in the abbey as part of its 950th anniversary celebrations.With hymns from across Scotland, including Will You Come and Follow Me, Take This Moment, Sign and Space, and Spirit of God.
Remembrance Sunday is a poignant occasion for Christians in the armed forces as they join in prayer on the national day of reflection to remember those who have lost their lives whilst serving their country. The Rev Kate Bottley is at His Majesty's Naval Base in Portsmouth to meet Christians working in the Royal Navy and to find out why their faith is so important at this time.In Shrivenham, Pam Rhodes attends a service of prayer and remembrance for Christians from all three branches of the military, who are coming together in honour of the fallen.With hymns of remembrance from around the country.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates the blessings animals bring to our lives as she takes part in a special pet service in the magnificent Worcester Cathedral. She meets members of the congregation of all shapes and sizes, from goats to cockroaches! She speaks to their accompanying humans about the profound love and support that pets can provide in good times and in bad, and why we should thank God for all of them – even the creepy crawlies and those with negative associations.In a beautiful ancient church in Northamptonshire, Gemma Hunt discovers a growing new congregation – of bats! She joins local children on a bat walk and speaks to conservationists and church members about a new initiative helping to protect precious bats whilst also keeping churches open for worship.With hymns and songs celebrating animals and creation from around the UK.
Aled Jones presents the boys' semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year from Gorton Monastery in Manchester, with judges Katherine Jenkins, Howard Goodall and David Grant. Five of the best young choristers in the country sing a sacred song, and their choices include How Beautiful Are the Feet from Handel's Messiah, Pie Jesu by Fauré, Lorenc's Ave Maria, Panis Angelicus by Franck and the popular hymn set to Holst's stirring music, I Vow To Thee, My Country.Three of the five boys will be selected to sing in the final on 11 December.
Aled Jones hosts the girl's semi-final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year from Gorton Monastery in Manchester, with judges Katherine Jenkins, Howard Goodall and David Grant. The music featured includes the Bach/Gounod setting of Ave Maria and the hymn There's a Wideness in God's Mercy, and three of the girls have chosen music by contemporary composers - Love Divine by Goodall, Be Thou My Vision by Chilcott and Rutter's Gaelic Blessing.Three of the five girls will be selected to sing in the final on 11 December.
It's the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year from The Monastery in Manchester, presented by Aled Jones and Rev Kate Bottley.As it's the third sunday of Advent, six of the best girl and boy choristers in the UK perform a Christmas carol or song for judges Katherine Jenkins, Howard Goodall and David Grant before one is crowned the 2022 winner.The programme includes a performance of the carol O Come, O Come Emmanuel from the winning chorister, Aled Jones and all ten semi-finalists.
A week before Christmas Day, Claire McCollum visits a very festive Hever Castle in Kent. Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ, and Claire shares the joy and excitement of the season with the local community. She hears about the history of Anne Boleyn's childhood spent at the castle, then joins the local school for their annual Christingle service. Radzi Chinyanganya is at the Black Culture Christmas Market in Brixton to hear about the diverse decorations on display and the importance of inclusion for all.
Aled Jones presents a Christmas Day edition of Songs of Praise from Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff. The Cathedral Choir leads the singing and performs In The Bleak Mid-Winter. Songs of Praise Gospel Singer of the Year Patrice Campbell sings Mary, Did You Know. And Aled teams up with Russell Watson to sing Mistletoe and Wine. Plus favourite carols, accompanied by the Songs of Praise Orchestra.
Katherine Jenkins explores St Paul's Cathedral with music including hymns sung by the Cathedral Choir and special performances by Daniel O'Donnell, Aled Jones and The Priests.
Claire McCollum is in Stirling, exploring the city's connection to the King James Bible, and JB Gill meets a Scottish singer who found Jesus whilst battling addiction.
New presenter Brenda Edwards visits an outdoor walking church in east London, and Katie Piper meets the vicar who has become a hit on social media with his 60-second sermons.
Marking Songs of Praise's sixtieth year, Aled Jones recalls special moments with fellow presenter Pam Rhodes, including the Queen's celebrated appearance on the programme in 2018.
Mark De-Lisser hosts the semi-final of a brand new competition to find the Gospel Singer of the Year, with three celebrity judges deciding who will make it into next week's final.
Mark De-Lisser hosts the final of our Gospel Singer of the Year competition. Which one of the three talented performers will the celebrity judges choose?
Sean Fletcher visits Ripon Cathedral to hear reflections on Lent, and Katie Piper meets a Christian in Leeds who donated a kidney to a stranger.
Katherine Jenkins visits L'Abri fellowship in Hampshire to explore Christian faith and hospitality. With music from Laura Wright and the Choir of Royal Holloway.
Ahead of St David's Day, Sean Fletcher explores beautiful Tintern Abbey in Monmouthshire, and Welsh rugby legends share their stories of finding faith after hanging up their boots.
Katherine Jenkins reflects on personal prayer with young Christians in East Sussex, while Gemma Hunt hears how prayer changed the life of the founder of 24-7 Prayer.
Brenda Edwards finds out how St. Elisabeth's in Stockport makes Mothering Sunday special. We hear how one mum copes with lockdown and visit an affordable Christian supermarket.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits Roche Abbey in Yorkshire and shares some of her favourite moments on Songs of Praise, from open water swimming to meeting a man who walked on the moon.
On Palm Sunday, Aled Jones visits Oxford to celebrate stories of hope and to meet a leading scientist behind the vaccine that is saving lives around the world.
Katherine Jenkins celebrates Easter Sunday from Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, including a special performance from Sir Bryn Terfel.
This special Songs of Praise pays tribute to and remembers His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Aled Jones looks back at the Duke's long life, and the role faith played in it.
Katherine Jenkins talks to the archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, about the role of Christianity after lockdown, and comedian Frank Skinner reflects on his relationship with God.
Rev Kate Bottley visits the new Bridgewater Gardens in Salford to celebrate spring, and Gemma Hunt joins a Christian couple bringing joy to families through cooking.
Claire McCollum marks the Partition of Ireland and formation of Northern Ireland 100 years ago, meeting Christians from across the denominations to discuss the past and their hopes for the future.
Brenda Edwards visits Swansea to explore the Welsh Revival, when Christianity spread rapidly through Wales, and she discovers a new church that is reviving an old chapel.
Aled Jones explores the cathedral town of Exeter, and in Dementia Action Week, YolanDa Brown meets one local woman helping people with dementia remain active.
On Pentecost Sunday, Sean Fletcher learns about monastic life at the Community of the Resurrection in West Yorkshire, and Pam Rhodes meets an ultra-marathon runner.
Aled Jones explores the fascinating history of Newstead Abbey in Nottinghamshire, and YolanDa Brown meets Emerald O'Hanrahan, who plays Emma Grundy in BBC Radio 4's The Archers.
Katherine Jenkins visits Salisbury Cathedral to explore the harmony between music and faith and to celebrate 30 years of the cathedral's groundbreaking girls' choir.
The Rev Canon Kate Bottley joins pilgrims, including the bishop of Durham and writer Sheridan Voysey, as they walk one of the new pilgrimage routes to Durham Cathedral.
To celebrate Father's Day, Aled Jones meets inspirational dads, including award-winning rap artist and author Guvna B.
Claire McCollum meets HRH the Princess Royal on the remote Scottish island of Iona and joins others inspired by its special atmosphere as a place of Christian pilgrimage.
Brenda Edwards explores the magnificent Chatsworth House in Derbyshire and introduces a feast of Christian music including performances from Lesley Garrett and the Overtones.
Aled Jones visits Cheddar Gorge in Somerset to hear the origins of the hymn Rock of Ages, and Gemma Hunt meets worship leader Martin Smith and new Christian group Bright City.
Katherine Jenkins visits Arundel in West Sussex to explore the Catholic cathedral and castle gardens, and we hear from the classical chart-topping nuns the Poor Clares.
The Rev Kate Bottley joins a family discovering the Catholic history of Boscobel House in Shropshire, and we revisit Frank Skinner's conversation about prayer with Sean Fletcher.
Aled Jones explores the link between faith and food at the Coptic Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George in Hertfordshire and discovers how their Eucharistic bread is specially baked.
Aled Jones visits the newly created Fountains Church in Bradford to see how this former nightclub is bringing spiritual refreshment and regeneration to the community.
In the heart of Mid Devon, Claire McCollum finds out why church weddings are important to Christians.
Claire McCollum explores stories of fossils, faith and science along the beautiful Jurassic Coast in Devon and Dorset, with favourite hymns by the seaside in Swanage.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits a zoo in Bristol and recalls fun moments from the series, including riding a helter skelter in a cathedral and JB Gill joining Christian surfers.
We meet the father who found faith after his daughter's fatal reaction to sesame seeds. The family have successfully campaigned for Natasha's Law to protect food allergy sufferers.
Sean Fletcher climbs Pendle Hill in Lancashire to learn how the area inspired radical Christians in the past. James Lusted meets a local pastor continuing the tradition.
The Rev Kate Bottley joins Christians in Hackney giving thanks for the fruits of creation, as churches prepare to celebrate their harvest festivals.
Aled Jones is in Cardiff, where the first episode of Songs of Praise was recorded, to introduce some of the most memorable moments from the programme's 60-year history.
Westminster Abbey hosts a 60th birthday edition with special guests and favourite hymns. Aled Jones is joined by fellow presenters from the past and present to mark the occasion.
Claire McCollum is in Coventry, this year's UK City of Culture and host of Faith, a 24-hour event bringing together the city's different religions.
To celebrate Black History Month, Brenda Edwards is in Brixton to hear how people of Caribbean and African descent have shaped the music and faith of the UK.
Aled Jones visits Anglesey's Church Island, a holy place for over 1,000 years, and meets Brenda Fogg, known as the Angel of Llandudno for housing the homeless.
Katherine Jenkins is in Blackpool to discover the Christian tradition of All Hallows' Eve and how faith in the town is reflected in its world-famous illuminations.
As the COP26 conference takes place in Glasgow, Claire McCollum meets Christians raising awareness of climate change, and YolanDa Brown joins young campaigning pilgrims.
On Remembrance Sunday, Sean Fletcher meets Christian veterans at Imperial War Museum North in Manchester, and Pam Rhodes marks 100 years of the Royal British Legion and its poppy appeal.
Aled Jones presents the girls' semi-final of the BBC Young Chorister of the Year competition with judges Lesley Garrett, Howard Goodall and David Grant.
Aled Jones presents the boys' semi-final from Salisbury Cathedral, with judges Lesley Garrett, Howard Goodall and David Grant.
On the second Sunday of Advent, Aled Jones hosts the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year with six talented singers and judges Lesley Garrett, Howard Goodall and David Grant.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Lincoln to explore its famous Christmas market, held annually in the shadow of the city's magnificent gothic cathedral.
Katherine Jenkins looks forward to Christmas with a host of festive favourite carols from Westminster Abbey, including Hark the Herald Angels Sing and O Come All Ye Faithful. There are special performances from the Abbey choir and from Gospel Singer of the Year Monique McKen with Tessera.
Claire McCollum meets the ever-popular Irish singer Daniel O'Donnell as he shares his journey of faith and reveals some of his favourite hymns and carols.
Kate Bottley is in Bristol to explore how John Wesley, the radical founder of the Methodist Church, devised a service that still helps many Christians mark the new year.
Claire McCollum explores Carlisle's Roman castle, meets two doctors dedicating their lives to Sierra Leone, and hears about a local vicar who was once an armed robber.
Filmed before the current restrictions, Aled Jones explores the theme of inclusion at the Strawberry Field Salvation Army centre in Liverpool and discovers its link to The Beatles.
Sean Fletcher looks back on journeys to ancient and sacred places of pilgrimage, including Lourdes and the spectacular abbey of Mont St Michel in France.
The Rev Kate Bottley revisits some of the programme's most uplifting stories from across the farming community, including a visit to the Great Yorkshire Show.
Katherine Jenkins marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day, with the Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin revealing the role churches played in bringing people together when peace was declared.
Aled Jones hears from regular conductor Ken Burton how hymn singing brings hope in troubled times, and revisits an interview with Graham Kendrick.
Katherine Jenkins looks back on stories of faith from islands around the UK coastline, beginning by reflecting on her visit to Caldey Island off Tenby in Pembrokeshire.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates Pentecost, regarded as the birthday of the Christian church, revisiting stories from the archives exploring the themes of this special day.
Sean Fletcher explores how music and faith can help people through the darkest of times, talking to Bishop Dr Joe Aldred about the Christian response to the death of George Floyd.
Aled Jones is in Pains Hill Park in Surrey to revisit stories of people who find spiritual inspiration in the great outdoors, including the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria and Perthshire.
For Father's Day, Sean Fletcher looks back on stories of inspiring dads putting Christian love into action, including a father's gift to save his son's life.
Claire McCollum is on the north coast of her home of Northern Ireland looking back on memorable faith stories from across the region. Filmed before restrictions.
Katherine Jenkins is in central London to mark the birthday of the NHS and Florence Nightingale's bicentenary, and the Archbishop of Canterbury pays tribute to frontline carers.
Rev Kate Bottley finds out about the village vicars of Eyam, Derbyshire, who initiated lockdown 355 years ago to protect the rest of northern England from the bubonic plague.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits Crosby Beach to meet Christian artists inspired by Antony Gormley's striking iron statues that have stared out to sea for 15 years.
Aled Jones visits London's Olympic Stadium to explore the links between Christianity and sport, and JB Gill meets the former Premier League goalkeeper swapping the pitch for the pulpit.
The Rev Kate Bottley discovers how Christian reformers founded the National Trust 125 years ago, and we reflect with Bristol mayor and Christian Marvin Rees on the city's links to slavery.
Claire McCollum visits the stunning Trentham Gardens in Staffordshire, discovering how the estate has been a place of Christian worship since the seventh century.
Kate Bottley visits the Salvation Army's Hadleigh Farm in Essex to celebrate over 150 years of this Christian denomination, which is still going strong in the 21st century.
Aled Jones visits Blenheim Palace to explore its private chapel and magnificent grounds, and Laura Wright joins an inclusive choir for a hymn singalong.
Claire McCollum visits Cornwall's Eden Project, and JB Gill goes surfing with a Christian who came back to faith whilst catching waves.
Aled Jones is in Plymouth, where 400 years ago a group of Christians embarked on an epic journey across the Atlantic which changed history – the voyage of the Mayflower.
Rev Kate Bottley marks Harvest in Saddleworth, on the Yorkshire-Lancashire border, and Katie Piper meets a Christian minister helping Welsh farmers through times of crisis.
Claire McCollum explores Saltaire in Yorkshire. Now a world heritage site, the Victorian village was built by a Christian mill owner to transform the lives of his workers.
Kate Bottley shares her journey of faith, from becoming a Christian as a teenager to her ordination and beyond, as she visits the people, places and music that have shaped her.
Claire McCollum visits the Clink restaurant in Styal, partly run by prison inmates who are being given the chance of a fresh start in life by being trained in a fine dining restaurant.
Aled Jones visits Cheddar Gorge in Somerset to hear the origins of the hymn Rock of Ages, and Gemma Hunt meets worship leader Martin Smith and new Christian group Bright City.
For Black History Month, guest presenter Mark De-Lisser visits the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool, and YolanDa Brown meets classical pianist and Christian Alexis Ffrench.
Claire McCollum visits Dundee, home of the Beano and the Dandy, to see how its comic book tradition inspired a new version of the Bible. With performances by Barbara Dickson and Cliff Richard.
For Remembrance Sunday, Aled Jones visits the Brecon Beacons, where the armed forces have trained since WWII. James Lusted meets an army veteran who finds peace in faith and music.
Aled Jones is back on home turf in north Wales as he takes a journey exploring how his faith has shaped his life and his singing. Aled also picks the hymns in the programme.
Katherine Jenkins hosts the girls' semi-final of the BBC Young Chorister of the Year competition, with judges John Rutter, Laura Wright and Carl Jackson.
Aled Jones presents the boys' semi-final of the BBC Young Chorister of the Year competition from Gorton Monastery in Manchester. Five of the best boy choristers in the UK compete to impress judges John Rutter, Laura Wright and Carl Jackson and win one of three remaining places in the final.
On the second Sunday of Advent, the Rev Kate Bottley hosts the final of BBC Young Chorister of the Year with judges John Rutter, Laura Wright and Carl Jackson.
Kate Bottley visits a winter wonderland experience in Norfolk, and Katie Piper joins a church delivering their Christmas angel hampers. Featuring favourite Christmas carols.
Aled Jones reveals the UK's favourite carol from St Paul's Cathedral with star guests Andrea Bocelli, Cliff Richard, the Kingdom Choir, The Priests and Katherine Jenkins.
Mark De-Lisser joins soul legend Mica Paris as she shares her journey of faith from her Pentecostal upbringing, through global fame, family tragedy and her return to gospel music.
Sean Fletcher finds out how Greek Orthodox Christians celebrate Epiphany, and the Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin explains its meaning. In Durham, Christian astronomer the Rev Professor David Wilkinson talks to the Rev Kate Bottley about the scientific theories behind the star of Bethlehem. And in Coventry, at a baby baptism service in the Greek Orthodox tradition, a member of the congregation explains why baptism is so important to their faith. Hymns come from around the UK on the theme of Epiphany.
Aled Jones is on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent exploring its history and seeing how Jesus' teaching, Love Thy Neighbour, is being put into action in the community.
Rev Kate Bottley goes open-water swimming to explore the links between faith and fitness, and there is a performance from Christian singer-songwriter Jenn Bostic.
The Rev Kate Bottley and JJ Chalmers join a charity sleep-out in Edinburgh raising funds for homeless people and meet Christians helping those who've slept rough.
Katherine Jenkins visits the stunning Salisbury Cathedral to celebrate the Christian feast day of Candlemas, and to hear how the city has found hope after last year's devastating Novichok attack. Speaking to the cathedral's canon chancellor, she discovers the meaning of the ancient feast day that commemorates the infant Jesus being presented at the temple in Jerusalem. Sean Fletcher learns the art of candlemaking with a firm that supplies 10 million candles to churches each year. And nearly 12 months on from the nerve agent attack in Salisbury, the cathedral's new Dean shares how the city has been united in grief and in striving for peace and reconciliation. With wonderful hymns celebrating God's light shining in the darkness.
As St Valentine's Day approaches, Katherine Jenkins visits the Tower of London where it is thought the earliest recorded valentine was written in the 15th century. She explores the tower's two beautiful chapels and meets the first female beefeater. We find out about Christian digital dating and join two young people hoping to find their valentine. Finally, Sean Fletcher hears from the couple passing on the secrets of their long and happy marriage to those planning to tie the knot, and Gregory Porter sings about love.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits Whitby, North Yorkshire, to discover how Quaker values impacted Captain James Cook's life, and how the life of St Hilda of Whitby influenced the town.
Aled Jones explores Nottingham's ancient network of man-made caves and discovers their Christian history. With hymns from an 800-strong congregation in Nottingham's Albert Hall.
Katherine Jenkins meets the Christian who gave up plastic for Lent, and Josie d'Arby helps create recycled stained-glass windows.
For the first Sunday of Lent, Sean Fletcher takes on a generosity challenge with Christians in Oxford, and the Rev. Rose Hudson-Wilkin explains the meaning of Lent for Christians.
On St Patrick's Day, Katherine Jenkins visits the Titanic Quarter in Belfast to hear stories of faith old and new.
Claire McCollum is in Aberystwyth, home to the largest Lampedusa cross in the country, a symbol of hope forged in the wake of a tragedy which shook the world.
Katherine Jenkins celebrates Mothering Sunday at the National Trust's Tyntesfield estate in Somerset, and we meet a mother who has fostered over 800 children.
For the fifth Sunday of Lent, Sean Fletcher is in Brighton with Christian music-makers whose faith inspires their work, and Josie d'Arby meets a music therapist.
Aled Jones and a choir of Christians make the pilgrimage to the Holy Land to walk in Jesus's last steps, visiting some of the most sacred Christian sites on earth.
In an Easter Sunday special filmed in Jerusalem, Aled Jones visits the sacred site where many Christians believe Jesus's resurrection happened over 2,000 years ago.
After the recent terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, many of which deliberately targeted worshipping Christians, we meet members of the Sri Lankan Christian community in the UK.
To mark 50 years of the Cleveland Way, one of Britain's favourite national trails, Rev. Kate Bottley walks to one of its highlights, the 12th-century monastery Rievaulx Abbey.
Sean Fletcher visits Spring Harvest, the 20,000 strong Christian event in Minehead, Somerset, for its 40th anniversary.
Aled Jones hosts the junior semi-final of the Songs of Praise Young Choir of the Year competition from Victoria Hall in Bolton.
Aled Jones hosts the senior semi-final of the Songs Of Praise Young Choir Of The Year competition from Victoria Hall in Bolton, with judges Russell Watson, Carrie Grant and JB Gill
Aled Jones hosts the final of the 2019 Young Choir of the Year contest from Victoria Hall, Bolton, with judges Russell Watson, Carrie Grant and JB Gill and six fabulous choirs.
To mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Aled Jones joins 93-year-old veteran Harry Billinge as he returns to the beaches of Normandy to remember those who fell.
For Father's Day, Sean Fletcher meets a dad whose personal sacrifice saved his son's life. Singer Laura Wright launches the vote to find the UK's favourite hymn.
The Rev. Kate Bottley visits New Lanark, 25 miles south of Glasgow, where in 1786 Christian businessman David Dale ran one of Scotland's most successful cotton mills.
Katherine Jenkins visits the historic Caernarfon Castle to mark 50 years since the investiture of the Prince of Wales, an event watched by half a billion people around the world.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Glastonbury, which last weekend played host to the world famous music festival, to meet the Christian man behind it.
Marking the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing Claire McCollum visits Ely Cathedral and discovers astronaut Buzz Aldrin took Holy Communion on the moon.
Aled Jones visits MotoFest Coventry, a huge car and racing festival started by a church leader. The Reverend Kate Bottley meets young Christian entrepreneurs in the city.
Katherine Jenkins visits St Mary's Twickenham, the oldest Catholic University in the UK. Radzi Chinyanganya is in Trafalgar Square at the Thy Kingdom Come festival
The Rev. Kate Bottley is at Ripon College in Oxfordshire, where she meets a trainee vicar who used to be a heavy metal singer.
Claire McCollum meets a couple getting married in church for just £1,000, and Kate Bottley meets a Christian same-sex couple marrying in the United Reformed Church.
Claire McCollum explores the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales via motortrike and meets the Christian woman who feels close to God whilst on three wheels.
Aled Jones talks to Lord Julian Fellowes about faith and the Downton Abbey movie. He also explores the Christian history of Burghley House in Lincolnshire.
Katherine Jenkins explores 'heavenly designs' 350 years after Christopher Wren started work on St Paul's Cathedral.
In a special episode, Kate Bottley visits the sacred Christian site of Lourdes in France and meets a British man who believes he was miraculously cured there.
Kate Bottley finds a helter-skelter in Norwich Cathedral is bringing Christianity to life and attracting many families. She also meets a Norfolk farmer praying for a good harvest.
Aled Jones counts down to the UK's favourite hymn as voted for by you. Performers include the Kingdom Choir, Lesley Garrett, Russell Watson, Katherine Jenkins and Daniel O' Donnell.
Claire McCollum visits St George's Cathedral in Hertfordshire to meet members of the UK's thriving Coptic Orthodox community and explore its ancient roots in first-century Egypt.
Aled Jones visits the Isle of Wight, meeting Christians on land and at sea, while Kate Bottley is in Birmingham on the day Cardinal Newman becomes a saint.
Rev. Kate Bottley discovers the secrets of sacred geometry at the beautifully restored Gorton Monastery in Manchester and meets Christians sharing the love of God in the community.
Katherine Jenkins visits and performs in Pembrokeshire, revealing the story of a new statue of St David destined for the Valley of the Saints in France.
Singer Russell Watson tells Aled Jones how a near-death experience transformed his Christian faith. Hymns include In Christ Alone, Ave Maria and Be Thou My Vision.
Katherine Jenkins marks Remembrance Sunday at the National Memorial Arboretum with Chelsea Pensioner and Britain's Got Talent winner Colin Thackery.
YolanDa Brown hosts the Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year competition 2019 with judges Rick Astley, Brenda Edwards and Mark De-Lisser.
Join YolanDa Brown to see which of the five choirs wins the Gospel Choir of the Year competition 2019, judged by Mark De-Lisser, Brenda Edwards and Rick Astley.
For the first Sunday of Advent, Sean Fletcher visits the stunning Blair Castle in Perthshire. TV star John Barrowman reflects on his Christian faith and performs Be Thou My Vision.
Claire McCollum is at Beamish Museum to find out how Edwardians celebrated Christmas, and Rick Astley performs When a Child Is Born.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits a farm in Devon where children are invited to perform the nativity story with real animals.
A feast of festive carols from the Assembly Hall in Belfast, hosted by Aled Jones with special guests Katherine Jenkins, G4, Alexis Ffrench and The Lion King star Shaun Escoffery.
Claire McCollum is in the fabulous Assembly Hall in Belfast with 800 voices for a Big Sing spectacular, with special guests Dana, Margaret Keys and The Priests.
To mark Epiphany, Sean Fletcher is in Durham for the UK's largest light festival. He joins tens of thousands of visitors who come to see the medieval city and towering cathedral transformed by light installations. Falling each year on 6 January, Epiphany is the twelfth day of Christmas and marks the end of the festive period. Sometimes known as three kings day, it is a time to remember the story of the wise men led by a star to Bethlehem to worship the infant Jesus. Sean meets professor of physics Tom McLeish to discover more about this part of the Christmas story and explores the great cathedral to learn more about its rich Christian history.
Katherine Jenkins hosts a special programme which joins Her Majesty the Queen to celebrate 150 years of the Christian charity Scripture Union. Hymn writer Bishop Timothy Dudley Smith reveals how his faith continues to inspire him to write music, even in his nineties. And Pam Rhodes meets Douglas Gresham, the stepson of CS Lewis, to find out how he let the light of his Christian faith shine through his children's books.
Hymns and songs from the historic Methodist Central Hall Westminster with guest Julian Lloyd Webber, who reminisces about his father's time there as organist. The Rev Tony Miles and Rev Martyn Atkins reveal the hall's links to the United Nations. Connie Fisher visits the St Vincent's Family Project supporting local young families and children, and she hears from performers from the West End's musical theatre about the challenges of being a Christian in the world of show business.
Sean Fletcher joins his church's 4am tea run in London's Covent Garden to mark Homeless Sunday. The Rev Kate Bottley meets a teenager in Preston who creates unique gift bags for those living on the street, and we meet the man converting old shipping containers into ingenious new homes in Bristol. Plus hymns from around the country, including When I Needed a Neighbour and Beauty for Brokenness.
On the centenary of British women over the age of 30 first getting the vote, Rev Kate Bottley celebrates pioneering Christian women. She visits Mansfield College in Oxford to learn about Constance Coltman, the first woman to be ordained in a UK denomination over a century ago. Josie d'Arby gains exclusive access to a 400-year-old church altar cloth which experts say is from a skirt worn by Queen Elizabeth I. Josie also meets Ruth Awogbade, who launched her own Christian fashion magazine. The music in this programme, from across the UK, is inspired or written by women.
Claire McCollum joins bishop James Jones in Lincoln to learn about the links between Christianity and forests. The 800-year-old Charter of the Forest is given a 21st-century relaunch and JB Gill meets a former addict whose Christian faith, combined with his new job as a tree surgeon, have together cured his addiction. In Essex, a group prepares for Lent with 'Forest Church', plus hymns and songs celebrating creation, including Great Are You Lord and Indescribable.
In a programme celebrating Britain's greatest hymnwriters, modern legend Graham Kendrick tells Sean Fletcher about the story behind his contemporary anthem Shine, Jesus, Shine, and Pam Rhodes talks to the leading modern hymnwriters Timothy Dudley Smith and Bernadette Farrell.At the Royal Albert Hall a congregation of 5,000 sing some of the country's favourite hymns.
The Rev Kate Bottley finds out how St John Ambulance began as an ancient Christian order in Jerusalem back in the 11th century and brushes up her first-aid skills. Meanwhile JB Gill meets the first person in the UK to donate an organ to a complete stranger.
Josie d'Arby and Claire McCollum are in St David's in Pembrokeshire to explore the area's saintly connections. Josie meets a couple who've found a new way to live with dementia and Claire visits a farm where city children get to experience country living. There's also a special performance from Katherine Jenkins.
Katherine Jenkins meets parents and their newborn babies at Basildon's Maternity Unit, and talks to midwives about their work. Katherine also meets Katharine Hill, UK director of charity Care for the Family to hear her tips for parenthood and learns about often overlooked references in the Bible of maternal language to describe God. Pam Rhodes meets Lizzie Lowrie who, last year, held a service in Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral entitled Mother's Day Runaways. It was aimed at the increasing number of women who, for reasons of loss, singleness or infertility, cannot bear to be in church for a traditional Mothering Sunday service. The idea came from Lizzie's own personal journey after marrying she expected children to follow, but has since had six miscarriages. Mother Pippa Ankers talks of bringing up her son Barney who has Down's syndrome. Barney speaks of his Christian faith and shows off his drumming whilst Pippa shares her experiences of raising a child with additional needs.
The Rev Kate Bottley celebrates spring on a farm run by Christians in Derbyshire. Owners Roger and Beryl have offered a fresh start to local young people for 40 years by giving them work on the farm. JB Gill meets a Christian couple attending a church-run marriage-preparation course. Methodists in Derby open a brand new townhouse to replace their old church building. There is also a tribute to the late Billy Graham, the US evangelist who affected millions of Christians around the world and who died in February. The programme has hymns old and new, including Be Thou My Vision, And Can It Be, and Our God Is Greater. The Irish hymn St Patrick's Breastplate marks St Patrick's Day, and a performance of Drop Drop Slow Tears reminds us we are in the season of Lent.
For Palm Sunday, Sean Fletcher visits St Albans Cathedral, the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain and where the original hot cross bun comes from. The programme also meets the amateur artists behind Bridport's modern paintings of the Stations of the Cross.
For Easter Sunday, Aled Jones is in his hometown of Bangor in north Wales to hear the Easter story. Claire McCollum is in her hometown of Belfast in Northern Ireland to see the impact the Good Friday agreement has had 20 years on. Aled also celebrates the hundredth anniversary of the Royal Air Force with a visit to RAF Valley. With Easter hymns from Bangor Cathedral and a special performance from Cor Glanaethwy.
Sean Fletcher explores the power of singing to express the Christian faith and to change people's lives for the better. He meets music historian and choir conductor Dr Andrew Gant and attends the True Worship Summit - an international conference celebrating gospel music - and joins hundreds of singers from all over Europe to take part in singing workshops led by some of the biggest names in gospel. Strictly finalist Alexandra Burke opens her heart about her Christian faith and how her late mother inspired her to sing and perform. And the Rev Kate Bottley meets The Missing People Choir - a singing group that brings together people who all have loved ones who disappeared. Kate speaks to Peter Boxell, whose son Lee went missing in 1988, and to Peter Lawrence, whose daughter Claudia disappeared in York in 2009. They tell Kate how the choir helps them cope and about reaching the final of Britain's Got Talent last year - which led directly to some families being reunited.
Claire McCollum meets compassionate Christians including charity workers and a chef influenced by visiting an African cocoa farm. With modern and traditional hymns.
Josie d'Arby presents Songs of Praise from Northampton's All Saints Church. To mark the 25th anniversary of Stephen Lawrence's murder his mother, Baroness Doreen Lawrence talks to Sean Fletcher about how her faith has helped during her 18 year fight for justice for her son. On the eve of St George's Day, the Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin reveals the Middle Eastern identity of England's patron saint. Josie finds out about the Good Loaf cafe run by the Christian charity Crime 2 Christ and visits the town's premier rugby club, the Saints, which was founded by a clergyman at the end of the 19th century. The programme has traditional hymns from Northampton's civic church, All Saints.
Aled Jones hosts the first semi-final of a brand new singing competiton, The Young Choir of the Year 2018, from the Pontio Centre in Bangor. Five junior choirs from across the UK sing to win a place in the final.
Aled Jones hosts the second semi-final of the brand new singing competition - Young Choir of the Year 2018, from the Pontio Centre in Bangor. Five senior choirs from across the UK sing to win a place in the final.
Aled Jones hosts the final of the Young Choir of the Year 2018 competition from the Pontio Centre in Bangor. The junior and senior choir finalists sing their choice of inspirational song to impress the judges and lift the trophy.
On Pentecost Sunday Kate Bottley is in Manchester to hear from survivors and families of the Manchester terrorist attack one year on. She meets a woman who tragically lost her son that night and a Methodist minister who was in the arena with her 11-year-old twin daughters. With hymns from churches across Greater Manchester and a very special performance from Katherine Jenkins and Parrs Wood High School choir.
Claire McCollum visits the city of Perth on the banks of Scotland's longest river, the Tay. She meets Lady Mansfield at Scone Palace and finds out more about its role in the country's religious history. Once a large abbey and religious community, it was the site of the Scottish Parliament and the crowning place of Scottish kings. We also mark 175 years since the Free Church of Scotland was established in an event known as The Disruption and reveals the story of how its founding inspired early photography. JB Gill meets local minister, the Rev Scott Burton, whose passion is kayaking on the River Tay. He explains to JB how the river has taught him many lessons, brought alive biblical imagery and helped shape his life and faith.
Sean Fletcher and the Rev Kate Bottley hear how the Christian faith sustains those affected by cancer, including former Blue Peter host and TV presenter Simon Thomas, Baptist minister the Rev Andy Stammers, campaigner Della Ogunleye and cancer specialist nurse Mary Mountford-Lister. Sean visits Maggie's Oxford, a centre that specialises in support and care for those diagnosed with cancer. Kate meets a support group for black women who are dealing with effects of breast cancer. Music includes In Christ Alone, Break Every Chain, God Is Love His The Care, and Keep You Here, a special song from Stuart Townend written after his late brother's cancer diagnosis.
Aled Jones returns to Grenfell Tower 12 months after Britain's worst peacetime fire, in which 71 people lost their lives, to hear inspiring stories of faith and to find out how the community is coping. He catches up with the pastor still helping survivors and hears the moving story of one woman and her family, who lived on the 13th floor of the Tower. He meets Gaby Doherty who has written a book capturing stories of hope from within the community and finds out how one young man volunteers his time to create new green spaces for families to enjoy. Josie d'Arby heads south to meet EsmÚ Page who was so moved by the fire she set up Cornwall Hugs Grenfell to provide free holidays for those affected and there's music from around the country offering words of comfort and support.
Sean Fletcher is in Tilbury Docks near London to mark 70 years since the SS Empire Windrush brought nearly 500 new settlers from the Caribbean, an event that came to symbolise the beginning of modern Britain. He travels up river and into London to explore the challenges those new arrivals and their families have faced right up to the present day, and to celebrate the faith and music they brought with them.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in Launde Abbey in Leicestershire to explore the power of prayer and reveals how more Christians are using apps and daily e-mails to help them worship. Pam Rhodes finds out about plans for a huge wall of answered prayers and meets a very special baby born over four months early. With special performances from Only Boys Aloud and soprano Margaret Keys.
Claire McCollum and JB Gill celebrate 70 years of the NHS with staff and former patients. Claire visits Trafford General, where the then health secretary Aneurin Bevan launched the National Health Service in 1948. JB Gill joins Tim, who is a chaplain to paramedics, to find out how he supports both the ambulance crews, patients and their relatives. Senior manager Olivia Amartey reflects on the role her Christian faith has played during her 35-year career in the NHS. Medical student Libby Adderley talks about how the NHS support that helped her overcome anorexia made her determined to give back by becoming a doctor.
The Rev Kate Bottley is in the Lake District to explore the stunning scenery of this World Heritage site. She joins a church youth group taking part in a team-building exercise at the YMCA's National Centre, Lakeside, tries her hand at sailing on Lake Windermere and even has a go on the outdoor centre's zip wire. The programme finds out about the inspirational beauty of Eycott Hill Nature Reserve through professional photographer Andrew Heptinstall, and JB Gill visits Cartmel Priory, thought to be the first church in the world to have created a virtual reality experience. There is also a stunning new performance of Amazing Grace from the international singing group Il Divo.
The programme visits the village of Walsingham in Norfolk, one of the country's most holy places and, as Pam Rhodes finds out, a major pilgrimage destination famed for its shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Sean Fletcher joins pilgrims travelling to Mont St Michel in Normandy, and Katherine Jenkins spends the day with Brother David on holy Caldey Island.
Claire McCollum explores Northern Ireland, beginning at Giant's Causeway - a Unesco world heritage site. She speaks to a local geologist who explains how the interlocking columns of rock were formed and how he marries his science with a deep faith in a creator God.JB Gill takes a ride around the Strangford Lough in County Down with a Christian cycling group. He's put through his paces on the narrow countryside roads and finds out from the team leader how cycling brings them closer to God.We also mark the 125th anniversary of the Girls' Brigade. Founded in 1893 in Dublin by a pioneering woman named Margaret Lyttle, Girls' Brigade aims to empower girls, develop skills, build friendships and explore the Christian faith. Groups now meet in 51 countries around the world and we drop in on a thriving company in Sunderland to see what it's all about.Claire meets Belfast boy Philip Mulryne who left professional football behind to become a Catholic priest. Philip was signed up to Manchester United as a teenager and had many successful seasons with Norwich City, but as he reached the end of his 20s he realised there was something missing. He tells Claire about his journey to finding fulfilment in the Christian faith which led him to the priesthood and even a vow of poverty.With traditional hymns and modern worship songs from across Northern Ireland including a performance from singer-songwriter Kathryn Scott.
200 years after the birth of Emily Bronte, Aled Jones is in Haworth in Yorkshire exploring the Christian upbringing of the author of Wuthering Heights, and we revisit other Christians who have inspired us over the last 12 months.
Sean Fletcher is in Alton in Staffordshire, not at its famous theme park Alton Towers but at its castle, now a Catholic youth retreat centre which raises self-esteem, and builds and strengthens friendships. He meets the young Christians running it who help ensure the youngsters leave with some treasured memories.The programme looks back at two stories of amazing faith featured over the last year, including the fantastic freestyle footballer from Milton Keynes and the Christian astronaut who walked on the moon but found more fulfilment when he gave his life to God.
The Rev Kate Bottley visits the Great Yorkshire Show, where the chaplain to the Yorkshire Agricultural Society tells her about the show's 160-year history and how the church has always played a central role. Kate finds out more about the challenges facing the agricultural community and meets Kate Dale, the Christian farmer who is reaching out to offer support.JB Gill visits Thirsk to discover the story of the real-life Yorkshire vet behind the ever-popular books of James Herriot. Herriot was the pen name of Alf Wight, and JB meets his son Jim at the museum that was once his father's veterinary practice and their family home. They walk up to Sutton Bank to enjoy what Alf described as 'the finest view in England' and talk about Alf's Christian values and the enduring success of All Creatures Great and Small in print and on screen.Kate also meets the newly appointed bishop of Ripon, Helen-Ann Hartley, for tea and scones and talks about moving to Yorkshire and her vision for her new role.With hymns and songs celebrating the beauty of creation, including a performance from teenage singing star Elan Catrin Parry.
It's been 40 years since the last papal visit to Ireland, and Claire McCollum is there to join the celebrations for the historic visit of Pope Francis. The Holy Father specially chose Dublin to host the World Meeting of Families 2018, the largest international gathering of families in the world. We meet up with the 100 strong group travelling from the Archdiocese of Birmingham to be part of the event and we're in Croke Park Stadium for the Festival of Families. One of the places Pope Francis will visit is Knock Shrine and Sean Fletcher finds out what draws 1.5 million pilgrims there every year. There's also another opportunity to see how Claire got on when she joined pilgrims climbing Croagh Patrick, known as Ireland's holy mountain, on Reek Sunday. Claire finds out why some young Christians choose to climb barefoot, despite the mountain being covered in sharp stones. There are hymns from Ireland and a performance of Amazing Grace by the group Celtic Woman, filmed on Clew Bay.
Claire McCollum is in Newcastle upon Tyne to see Christian artefacts discovered nearby at Hadrian's Wall, and the programme sees how the city that loves football is helping children with disabilities. JB Gill catches up with Gospel Choir of the Year judge Karen Gibson to find out what it was like to sing at the recent royal wedding, and there are hymns from the Church of St Thomas the Martyr in the heart of the city, led by Philippa Hanna.
Josie d'Arby visits Bristol's 40th Balloon Fiesta and meets Christians making a difference in the city, including mayor Marvin Rees and a cleaner given a surprise gift by university students. Josie joins members of St Peter's Hospice, sharing its 40th birthday with the Balloon Fiesta, and takes to the skies for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride. She also hears from a Christian changing the lives of homeless people by converting shipping containers into homes. Hymns are from around the UK, including three from St Alban's Church in Bristol.
As the RAF marks its centenary, Aled Jones is at the Rhyl Air Show in north Wales to hear the extraordinary stories of two Second World War pilots, Welsh local hero David Lord, who was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross, and 97-year-old Ernie Holmes, a Lancaster bomber pilot who miraculously survived being shot down over occupied territory.Josie d'Arby visits Winchester Cathedral 100 years after a simple gravestone inscription inspired the creation of the worldwide movement Alcoholics Anonymous.And the programme meets Christian Joey G, who is using rap music to bring the message of Jesus to the young people of north Wales. There is also a special performance by Blake and The Military Wives Choir, as well as hymns and songs from north Wales and across the UK.
Katherine Jenkins is back from maternity leave to celebrate Harvest Sunday from Exeter in Devon where she makes ice cream on a dairy farm run by Christians. JB Gill visits a church in the middle of a farm. With singing led by Graham Kendrick and a special performance from Sir Bryn Terfel.
Sean Fletcher reflects on peace and forgiveness by meeting a Christian mother whose son was murdered in a knife attack and who now runs a boxing club to encourage reconciliation between rival gangs. Pam Rhodes talks to the Reverend Nigel Bennett, who survived the 7/7 attack and maintains forgiveness has been essential to his recovery. At Lambeth Palace Sean joins Christians and Muslims learning to gain deeper mutual understanding at a young peacemakers forum. And Canon Andrew White, the vicar of Baghdad, reflects on the results of his pioneering peacemaking work in the Middle East, which he undertook despite the risks to his own life and having MS. With hymns on the theme of peace from around the UK, including Make Me a Channel of Your Peace, Blessed Assurance and There's a Wideness in God's Mercy.
The Rev Kate Bottley meets Christian car fans at the Goodwood Revival classic car races. Chaplains Antony Feltham-White and Keith Morrison explain why they bless the race track, and the owners - the Duke and Duchess of Richmond - describe how they welcome a Christian presence at the event. Opera and Christian singer Jonathan Veira performs and tells a story of a friendship forged through a love of classic cars. Kate meets Rev Adam Gompertz, car designer and artist, who has brought his love of God and cars together in his role as a clergyman. Current Blue Peter presenter Radzi Chinyanganya celebrates 60 years of the children's TV show with former presenters and Christians Tina Heath and Simon Thomas.
Rev Kate Bottley is in Birmingham to hear how Christianity is at work in this modern, multicultural city. She visits Winson Green to meet the Christian couple who have dedicated their lives to working in urban areas. They have some unusual ways of connecting with people, including walking their alpacas to the local school and back.Josie d'Arby catches up with Julian Lloyd Webber, principal of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and hears from students aiming to become the next generation of cathedral organists. There is also a special performance from past student, singer-songwriter Laura Mvula.For Black History Month the programme finds out about the faith and food that the Caribbean community has brought to the city, and there are hymns from St Germain's church in Birmingham.
Josie d'Arby visits Lee Abbey retreat centre in Devon to find out why Christians take their holidays there and how it brings rest and refreshment to people from all over the world. JB Gill helps to distribute copies of the Gideons Bible around London and discovers how one of the charity's Bibles in a hotel room transformed the life of one young man. And a Christian couple explain why they spend their holidays on a canal boat studying the Bible and praying for others.
Katherine Jenkins introduces a feast of favourite hymns as the Songs of Praise presenters and the archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, reveal the hymns and worship songs that mean the most to them. The archbishop explains that his favourite has always remained close to his heart because it was the first hymn he sang after experiencing the love of God for himself and becoming a Christian.Katherine explores the beautiful surroundings of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the famous Chelsea Pensioners and designed by Sir Christopher Wren. She is shown around Wren's chapel in the heart of the community and meets a Chelsea Pensioner who is a regular in the congregation.Chart-topping British country duo The Shires chat to Claire McCollum about growing up singing in churches and choirs and perform an exclusive version of their favourite hymn, Jerusalem.
Songs of Praise remembers Wilfred Owen, one of the greatest war poets in the English language. He was killed in action on 4 November 1918, during what became one of the very last battles of World War I. Aled Jones and Frank Field MP discuss how Wilfred Owen captured both the horrors and, as he saw it, the futility of war, outside the Birkenhead home where the poet lived from the age of four. Dame Patricia Routledge reads her favourite Wilfred Owen poem and joins the congregation to sing hymns in his memory at Christ Church in Birkenhead, where the poet attended services as a boy. Wilfred Owen enthusiast Martin Impey reveals his latest illustrations depicting the tragedy of war, and the programme meets the winner of Prince William's national poetry competition for a new work inspired by the poets of the First World War.
For a special programme on Remembrance Sunday, Katherine Jenkins is in Southampton to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War.Using rare diaries and newspapers from the time, Katherine discovers how the famous port city was the primary embarkation point for British forces with eight million individual troop movements recorded between 1914 and 1918.As the birthplace of the Spitfire, Southampton also played a crucial role in achieving victory in World War Two. Katherine meets Don and Margaret, both in their 90s, who helped to build the iconic aircraft. They share vivid memories of the factory being bombed and how parts continued to be made in garages, workshops and even laundrettes across Southampton to enable the RAF to win the Battle of Britain.Looking to the future, Sean Fletcher visits a Christian project in Slough using contemporary music to engage young people in what peace means in their generation.
David Grant hosts the Gospel Choir of the Year Competition 2018, where five of the best amateur choirs compete to impress judges Gareth Malone, Karen Gibson and Shaun Escoffery.
David Grant hosts the exciting climax of the Gospel Choir of the Year Competition 2018, judged by Gareth Malone, Karen Gibson and Shaun Escoffery.
Sean Fletcher is in Chester to celebrate 50 years of Christingle in the UK, and the archbishop of Canterbury shares memories of feeling lonely at Christmas as a child.
Katherine Jenkins goes back to her childhood church in Neath, south Wales, for Advent.
Sir Cliff Richard performs his new festive song, and poet Lemn Sissay talks about making Christmas special for hundreds of young people.
Aled Jones celebrates Christmas with festive carols from the McEwan Hall, Edinburgh, including O Come All Ye Faithful and Joy to the World. With special guests Russell Watson, Katherine Jenkins and Collabro.
Katherine Jenkins is in Edinburgh for the Scottish Big Sing from the McEwan Hall. With special guest performances from Susan Boyle, The Overtones and The Ayoub Sisters. JJ Chalmers discovers the history of bagpipes and finds out more about the upcoming Hogmanay celebrations in the city.
2017 is the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, so Aled Jones goes behind the scenes at Henry VIII's Hampton Court Palace. There is also a look back at the very best of Songs of Praise from the last 12 months.
Josie d'Arby meets those whose faith has brought freedom from spiralling debt, and Katie Melua performs Rachmaninov's All Night Vigil.
Days before Donald Trump enters the White House as president, we find out about his family connections to the Isle of Lewis in the Hebrides.
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It's Hull's big year as the UK's City of Culture, and Aled Jones discovers what that means for England's biggest parish church and how Hull's famous sons, from William Wilberforce to the latest BBC Face of Hull, are all getting in on the act.
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Josie d'Arby celebrates Chinese New Year at a magic lantern festival and we meet Stella Parton, sister of Dolly, who shows that musical talent and faith run in the family. Plus a performance of the Nunc Dimittis from Alexander Armstrong.
It's the 200th anniversary of the death of Jane Austen, and Connie Fisher visits the Hampshire house where the celebrated romantic novelist lived to examine her - not always flattering - portrayal of clergymen.
Aled Jones visits north Wales to follow the pilgrim trail to Bardsey Island, reputed to be the resting place of 20,000 saints. And Kate Bottley is in Dublin to uncover the real St Valentine.
Marking the 25th anniversary of the Church of England's vote in favour of women's ordination, David Grant meets the first female Anglican priest.
Josie d'Arby is down on the farm in Dartmoor, joining girls from inner-city London who are being given a taste of rural life. And the famous bells of Southwark Cathedral are hoisted back up their tower.
Thirty years after the Zeebrugge ferry disaster, which resulted in the loss of 193 passengers and crew, Aled Jones is in Dover to hear first-hand accounts from survivors and precious memories from people who lost loved ones.
With Britain facing a housing crisis, Josie d'Arby visits the Lake District to see how the church can make a difference. And to mark the season of Lent, Dr John Sentamu, the archbishop of York, discusses the subject of forgiveness.There is music to celebrate St Patrick's Day and a performance by flautist Sir James Galway.
Aled Jones follows the work of a hospital chaplain and witnesses the highs and lows of life on the wards.
For Mothering Sunday, David Grant meets a mum who became a boxing coach to help youngsters in her community and a foster mum who took in three young asylum seekers from Afghanistan. The archbishop of York continues his special interviews for Lent, and there is music to lift the soul.
Josie d'Arby visits the fishing port of Peterhead and meets the trawlermen whose job is one of the most dangerous in Britain. Plus a look back at a music revolution in the church 50 years ago.
Josie d'Arby is in the Yorkshire Dales for lambing season, and the archbishop of York meets the mother who forgave those responsible for the death of her son.
For Easter Sunday, Sally Magnusson discovers how the people of Greater Manchester have come together to stage an ambitious outdoor performance of the greatest story ever told - Christ's crucifixion and resurrection.
David Grant visits Leybourne Animal Centre in Kent, run by the oldest welfare organisation in the world - the RSPCA - founded nearly 200 years ago by a Church of England vicar.
Josie d'Arby celebrates 30 years of saving lives with the Cornwall Air Ambulance, and we visit the church service in London that is bound to put a smile on your face.
Sally Magnusson visits Guernsey as its people approach the anniversary of the liberation of the island from German occupation in May 1945. She hears from a woman who lived under Nazi rule and how even today a community cafe, run by ex offenders, is still liberating people.
Pam Rhodes explores how a tiny island in the Lake District inspired a Victorian clergyman to become one of the founders of the National Trust.
Josie d'Arby meets nuns at a convent in Pembrokeshire and hears how they dedicate themselves to life in a closed community.
In the aftermath of the terror attack in Manchester, Aled Jones discovers how the city is pulling together and the role that faith is playing in the recovery.
Josie d'Arby is in Liverpool to celebrate the golden jubilee of the city's iconic Metropolitan Cathedral and to share a very special occasion with two of its young parishioners. And there's music to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost.
Radio 2 DJ Johnnie Walker and his wife Tiggy reveal what it is like to become a carer when your partner has to battle cancer, and we meet the soldiers preparing for this year's Trooping the Colour.
Connie Fisher joins the Street Angels of Magaluf as they patrol the Spanish party town, offering aid and advice to dusk-to-dawn revellers.
David Grant travels along the Settle to Carlisle Railway, taking in the spectacular views and hearing the story of the workers who risked their lives to build the remarkable Ribblehead Viaduct.
Aled Jones visits Chatsworth for its first flower show, Pam Rhodes discovers more about the estate's history, and former JLS star JB Gill talks faith and farming.
Sean Fletcher visits Mont Saint-Michel in France to meet some modern-day pilgrims and discover the history of this iconic and majestic monastery.
Aled Jones takes to the Welsh hills with Mike Peters from the band The Alarm on a walk to raise money for NHS cancer services. The Rev Kate Bottley meets a royal composer at St Asaph's Cathedral and the hospital chaplain who connects with dementia patients by singing like Elvis!
Katherine Jenkins explores the seaside resort of Hastings, revealing how the battle of 1066 changed British Christian history, and meets the volunteers from a local church who help mums by providing Moses baskets full of donations for newborn babies.Sean Fletcher finds out how Voces 8 are inspiring young people to take up choral singing, and Claire McCollum meets a young man whose faith has helped him make it all the way to representing Great Britain at the World Transplant Games.Katherine performs the classic hymn Jerusalem.
Aled Jones is at Southwark Cathedral in London to reveal how people are pulling together in a spirit of love, light and unity after the recent tragic events in the capital. Josie d'Arby finds out how the Salvation Army supports the emergency services and meets Britain's youngest black vicar as he gives his first service.
Claire McCollum is in Port Sunlight to hear how Christian entrepreneur William Hesketh Lever built this idyllic village to house his soap factory workers. The Reverend Kate Bottley meets the remarkable 13-year-old who sings like an angel.
Josie d'Arby joins thousands of Christians at the annual New Wine gathering in Somerset, and Connie Fisher visits Abbey Road Studios on the 50th anniversary of The Beatles' song All You Need Is Love.
Sally Magnusson is in Scotland's capital as the city celebrates 70 years of the world-famous Edinburgh Festival, and JB Gill meets gospel music legends The Blind Boys of Alabama. Plus hymns from Edinburgh's Stockbridge Church, including The Lord is My Shepherd and Immortal Invisible.
To commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, Songs of Praise celebrates how she broke down barriers through her amazing charity work and meets those who benefitted. At the Mildmay Aids Hospital in London, Pam Rhodes talks to a nurse and the mother of a patient who Diana met before he died. Sally Magnusson journeys to Nepal to discover the impact Diana made by shaking hands with patients who had leprosy, and Aled Jones takes a personal tour of the newly created memorial White Garden at Kensington Palace.
Claire McCollum travels to County Mayo in Ireland to join thousands of pilgrims as they climb Ireland's holy mountain - Croagh Patrick. Sean Fletcher visits another point of major interest for pilgrims, Knock Shrine. Sally Magnusson travels to Nepal to reveal how mountaineer Doug Scott is giving something back to the people. And Claire tells the story of the Celtic Christian who became a pirate queen. There is also a spectacular performance of Amazing Grace by Celtic Woman.
Katherine Jenkins travels to the monastery on Caldey Island, just off the coast from the holiday resort of Tenby in west Wales, to sample monastic life in the 21st century. This monastery funds itself through its own businesses and small enterprises, and Katherine is guided around the monastery by Brother David, one of its longest-serving monks. Josie d'Arby meets the father-and-son duo behind the choir Angelicus Celtis, who were Britain's Got Talent semi-finalists. With hymns and songs from the beach at Tenby Harbour.
Aled Jonesis in the seaside town of Eastbourne during its famous International Air Show. He takes to the skies with the Blades aerobatic display team and meets a 95-year-old World War II pilot who is supported by their charity work. Aled also meets one of the RAF's first female pilots, who swapped the cockpit for the pulpit, and Pam Rhodes visits a charity making aviation accessible to people with disabilities. Hymns come from the Eastbourne Bandstand with worship leader Lou Fellingham leading the 1,000-strong congregation.
Aled Jones and JB Gill are at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show to celebrate harvest. Aled tries his hand at herding ducks, while JB Gill finds out about the show's long Christian heritage and meets the world's leading rugby referee, who talks about his faith. With hymns from the sheep-shearing shed.
Sean Fletcher celebrates 60 years of the space race at the National Space Centre in Leicester. The Reverend Kate Bottley meets a Christian astronaut.
Katherine Jenkins joins a Christian retreat walk. Sean Fletcher meets Rev Richard Coles, who talks about his struggles with mental health.
Aled Jones feels the valley's warm welcome in Pontypridd and hears the story of a bridge building minister while JB Gill enjoys art and singing in Christian worship.
Claire McCollum is in Dungannon, County Tyrone, as she introduces music and inspirational stories of faith from across Ireland. She takes to the sea on a tall ship for a voyage designed to bring together teenagers from both sides of the border. Sean Fletcher discovers more about the devastating Irish famine 170 years ago and how a small group of Quakers launched an enormous relief effort. And there's a special performance from Northern Irish singer-songwriter Nathan Jess.
The Reverend Kate Bottley visits Hereford Cathedral and is shown its famous treasure, the mappa mundi, the world's largest surviving medieval map. She also meets a Christian and her family who have farmed the same land for four generations. Top jazz singer Gregory Porter tells JB Gill about his own Christian faith and performs the song When Love Was King. Former military man and bodyguard Stuart Anderson explains how Christianity has impacted his life. Hymns include For All the Saints, Great Is Thy Faithfulness and There Is a Redeemer.
Sean Fletcher visits Milton Keynes as it celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, and he has a kick-about with freestyle footballer Daniel Cutting.
In a special programme, Claire McCollum is in Enniskillen where 30 years ago, an IRA bomb exploded during a Remembrance Day ceremony.Viewers will hear inspirational stories of hope and faith including the story of Gordon and Joan Wilson, whose daughter Marie was the youngest victim. Joan recalls how her husband's deep Christian faith inspired his famous words hours after the atrocity "I bear no ill will to anyone", which many believe helped the Peace Process.Sean Fletcher reveals how the MOD is helping relatives of servicemen declared missing in action and meets Alma Williams from Cheshire, who is finally able to bury her brother, 74 years after his death. There are hymns for Remembrance Day from St Macartin's Cathedral, Enniskillen including… O God Our Help In Ages Past and Abide With Me.
Katherine Jenkins is in Windsor to mark Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip's 70th wedding anniversary, and she is joined by Prince Michael, who was a pageboy at the wedding. Kate Bottley talks to another couple celebrating their 70th anniversary this year. The programme meets sculptor who designed the commemorative ú5 coin and travels to the Royal Mint to see it being struck. Plus hymns from around the UK, including two of the Queen's favourites, which were sung at her wedding.
David Grant hosts the competition to find the Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2017. Five leading amateur choirs take to the stage of Central Hall Westminster in London to compete for the prestigious trophy. The judges are singer-songwriter Seal, broadcaster and worship leader Muyiwa Olarewaju, and award-winning gospel specialist Karen Gibson.
David Grant presents the final of the annual Gospel Choir of the Year competition, as five leading amateur choirs take to the stage of Central Hall Westminster in London to raise the roof with the glorious sound of gospel.Deciding which choir will win are three judges - singer-songwriter Seal, broadcaster and worship leader Muyiwa Olarewaju, and award-winning gospel specialist Karen Gibson.
Josie d'Arby celebrates Advent by following the journey of a Christmas tree from a Devon forest to a village church, while its farmers share their own deeply held Christian faith. In Plymouth, a church minister with cancer describes how God is helping him look forward to Christmas. JB Gill meets B Positive, a new choir founded by the MOBO Awards and the NHS to encourage people from all different backgrounds to give blood, and he donates his own for the first time.Songwriter Matt Redman performs a Christmas song - How Far, while the Hereford Cathedral Choristers sing The Truth From Above. Plus there are hymns and carols both old and new, including Hills of the North Rejoice, Christ Be Our Light, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Here I Am To Worship and The First Nowell.
Songs of Praise presenters each choose their favourite carol, and some are sung by candlelight in Winchester to celebrate Christmas. Sean Fletcher visits the Hospital of St Cross to find out about their tradition of giving food to pilgrims, and he catches up with former presenter Debbie Thrower, now a lay cannon in Winchester Cathedral. Carols include O Come All Ye Faithful, Away in a Manger, When a Child Is Born and Once in Royal David's City.
Songs of Praise celebrates Christmas in London with 5000 voices raising the roof of the Royal Albert Hall. The programme includes a performance from Katherine Jenkins.
An audience of 5,000 sing at the Royal Albert Hall to celebrate New Year's Eve. The programme features performances by former Westlife star Shane Filan, Mary-Jess and the boys' choir Libera.
Ann Widdecombe goes behind the scenes at drama 'Father Brown'. Aled hears about Hen Power and how it can help battle loneliness.
Hymns and songs from around the UK.
John Craven uncovers acts of kindness and community spirit in Cumbria which was recently devastated by floods.
David Grant visits a rehab centre were the addicts are turning to God to try and stop their addictions to drug and alcohol.
Libby Lane discusses the challenges she has faced as the first female British in the COE, in the past 12 months.
Josie D'Arby celebrates Chinese New Year, joining a missionary from Barnsley who is responsible for changing the course of Christianity in China.
Connie Fisher explores the village dubbed the kindest place to live in the UK.
David Grant see's how the Church of England have creative new ideas to encourage new members.
Aled Jones visits Port Talbot, the home of Britain's largest steelworks. Elsewhere Richard Taylor traces the history of the patron of saint of Wales.
Pam Rhodes meets grandmothers who are devoting their lives to becoming full-time carers for their grandchildren.
Josie d'Arby visits Birmingham Children's Hospital to dsicover how singing is helping patients on the wards.
For Easter Sunday, Pam Rhodes goes behind the scenes at a community passion play in Poole to discover how it's changing lives.
Aled Jones hosts the junior semi-final of the School Choir of the Year Competition from Sheffield City Hall, with six choirs hoping to impress judges Katherine Jenkins, Connie Fisher and Ken Burton.
Six choirs sing for a place in the final of the Senior School Choir of the Year competition from Sheffield City Hall with judges Katherine Jenkins, Connie Fisher and Ken Burton and Aled Jones presenting.
As HM the Queen reaches her 90th birthday on Thursday, Pam Rhodes finds out more about her faith and we reveal some surprising facts about England's patron saint, St George.
Aled Jones presents the grand final of the School Choir of the Year competition from Sheffield City Hall with judges Katherine Jenkins, Connie Fisher and Ken Burton deciding 2016's Junior and Senior School Champions.
Four hundred years after the death of William Shakespeare, Simon Callow investigates the great bard's spirituality, and Josie d'Arby joins in the celebrations as the great and the good come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Sally Magnusson is in Belfast to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme and the Easter Rising, two events which shaped the history of Ireland. Plus a competition for all Rugby League Fans.
For Pentecost Sunday Connie Fisher meets the bloggers and tweeters spreading the Christian message. Plus the Benedictine nun and her pet dog with thousands of followers online.
For Dementia Awareness Week, Pam Rhodes finds out how the recreation of a 1950s street is helping people with the disease. And the programme joins a spectacular pageant in Liverpool inspired by Pope John Paul II.
For Dementia Awareness Week, Pam Rhodes finds out how the recreation of a 1950s street is helping people with the disease. And the programme joins a spectacular pageant in Liverpool inspired by Pope John Paul II.
Gospel singer Ruby Turner surprises the passengers at Birmingham New Street Station with a flash mob-style performance of Gospel classic This Train in celebration of BBC Music Day. With hymns and songs that celebrate the power of music.
Josie d'Arby joins 25,000 people at the annual Big Church Day Out in West Sussex, meeting festival-goers, people working behind the scenes and some of the top names in global Christian music performing on the main stage.
For Father's Day, David Grant explores what makes a great dad, from the mountaineer raising money to help children like his son, to blogger EuGene and his family sharing top tips on fatherhood.
Sally Magnusson visits the Somme to commemorate one of the bloodiest battles in the history of the British Army and retrace the experiences of the devout young men who heard the call of duty.
On Battle of Britain Memorial Day, Pam Rhodes visits RAF Duxford, a former Spitfire pilot shares his memories, and Laura Mvula performs a new song.
A musical tribute from the Royal Albert Hall to Her Majesty the Queen, with special guests Lesley Garrett, Alexander Armstrong and a choir of five thousand voices.
Following the referendum result, Songs of Praise explores how Christians are reacting to Brexit, and there are uplifting hymns and songs from across the UK.
Josie d'Arby visits the tiny Hebridean island of Iona to experience its unique spirituality, while on the Northern Irish coast teenagers combine surfing and faith.
Ahead of the Olympics in Rio, Josie d'Arby returns to the venue for London 2012 to meet Olympic heroes and hopefuls, and Pam Rhodes is in the Lake District to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Beatrix Potter.
Josie d'Arby marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of one of Britain's most famous landscape gardeners, Lancelot "Capability" Brown, and Aled Jones samples some biblically-inspired beers, with inspirational hymns and music from across the UK.
Josie d'Arby finds out how Christians in the Gypsy and Traveller community express their faith, and enjoys the rich heritage inside Britain's only Romany museum.
As the Notting Hill Carnival celebrates its 50th anniversary, Robert Beckford finds out about the Christian origins of carnival and meets the people who put their faith into the festival. Plus music from across the country and a special performance by Heather Small.
It is the big day for Aled Jones and the winners of the Rugby League Challenge Cup Fans Choir Competition as they step on to the pitch at Wembley to sing Abide with Me, accompanied by 80,000 fans at the Challenge Cup final.
To mark Mother Teresa being canonised, Ann Widdecombe explores the making of a saint, and we meet a former orphan who owes his life to Mother Teresa's care. Plus inspirational hymns and music from across the UK.
On the 15th anniversary of 9/11, Sally Magnusson meets Christians who have responded with faith, hope and love in the face of attacks on their freedom. And Terry Waite reflects on 25 years since his release from captivity. Hymns include How Deep the Father's Love and There Is a Redeemer.
It is London Fashion Week, and David Grant is on the catwalk in Old Spitalfields Market to meet models with a difference. TV reverend Kate Bottley tries out some couture clergy wear.
The Great Fire of London in 1666 was described as an act of God, Pam Rhodes explores why and discovers the new city churches that formed the heart of the city that rose from the ashes.With inspirational hymns and music from across the UK.
Pam Rhodes is at the former Rowntree's chocolate factory in York, discovering how the Rowntree family supported wartime Quakers facing imprisonment as conscientious objectors. Hymns include Mighty to Save and How Deep the Father's Love.
Fabulous favourite hymns, old and new, from the spectacular Royal Albert Hall, with guest stars Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, Laura Mvula and the Priests.
TV vicar Rev Kate Bottley goes behind the scenes at London's iconic Billingsgate Fish Market as she prepares for a Harvest Festival of the Sea. With inspirational hymn-singing and music from across the UK.
To mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, which claimed the lives of 144 people, including 116 children, Aled Jones hears from two people speaking for the first time about the day that changed their lives and shocked the world.
Soul-stirring gospel music fills the Hackney Empire as six of Britain's top amateur choirs begin their quest to be Gospel Choir of the Year.
David Grant introduces six of the country's best amateur gospel choirs, and one of them is named Gospel Choir of the Year.
On Remembrance Sunday, Sally Magnusson is at RAF Brize Norton, the airbase which the fallen are flown home to.Plus the programmes hears from a 97-year-old veteran of the Arctic convoys, and Russell Watson sings the Lord's Prayer.
Professor Robert Beckford explores the impact of Britain's first black churches on the nation's Christian culture and visits the UK's first known New Testament Church of God.
For Advent Sunday, Connie Fisher meets a man who gave the precious gift of life to a relative stranger, and worship leader Matt Redman sings his new Christmas song.
Inspiring hymns and songs, together with uplifting stories of faith from around the UK and beyond.
The Reverend Kate Bottley joins a special Christmas trip to Lapland with the families of children with serious illnesses. Plus The Military Wives perform a Christmas song. Carols include O Christmas Tree and What Child Is This.
It's Christmas by candlelight as David Grant visits the medieval town of Dunster to take part in their candlelit procession and to sing special Somerset carols. Plus a performance of O Holy Night by Katie Melua.
Gareth Malone and Laura Mvula join Aled Jones for a feast of favourite carols and festive music in a seasonal special from the Royal Albert Hall.