In partnership with Arise Sheffield, the Diocese is encouraging Christians across South Yorkshire and the East Riding to make an intentional effort to shine as Lights for Christ for two weeks (18 October – 1 November 2026). While we can reflect the Light of Christ at any time of year, as the season changes and the nights get darker, Shine Your Light Fortnight is a special opportunity to share the hope and light that Jesus brings.
Shining Your Light as an individual
Wear your faith
For the last four years, we have encouraged believers across our Diocese to dedicate a fortnight to wearing their faith in the form of jewellery, badges, T-shirts and more! Many people have embraced this challenge and found that it has created opportunities to talk about why faith is important to them, so we encourage people to continue wearing their faith this year during Shine Your Light Fortnight.
Decorate your home
Halloween is a time when many people decorate their homes, and when the light within our homes shines out into the street. Why not take the opportunity to decorate your home with a message of hope, peace, light and joy?
Some of the messages you could use are:
- Jesus is the light of the world
- God’s light shines in the darkness
- When I am afraid, I can trust in God
- Jesus said: Let your light shine
Shining Your Light together
Serving your community
Shine Your Light Fortnight is an opportunity to band together and make a big difference in your neighbourhood. This could mean getting your hands dirty with a litter pick or a community gardening effort, volunteering for a local charity or organisation, preparing meals for vulnerable neighbours, or meeting any need that you see in the world around you. Why not get creative and see how you can shine your light as servants of your community?
Truth and Treat bags
Churches and schools can purchase Truth and Treat bags for their community. These are an easy way to share the Gospel with families – they come with a children’s gospel story book and stickers, plus a glow-in-the-dark wristband. Fill them with your own sweets and share them with anyone that comes to your door! Alternatively, the bags can be used as party bags at Light Parties.
Shine Your Light with a Light Party
Light Parties can be hosted at schools or in church buildings, they’re a celebration of light which is perfectly timed for when the nights start drawing in! Whether your light party has music, food, games or fancy dress, it’s a chance to draw together as community without the scariness of the Halloween season.
Shine Your Light at a school assembly
Leading a Shine Your Light assembly is a great way to talk about Jesus as the light of the world and to celebrate how the children have been shining their light during the first few weeks of the school year. The celebration assembly can be planned in conjunction with a Light Party in school for the children and their families.
Complete the form below to access downloadable resources for Light Parties and Shine Your Light assemblies.