Stephen Cottrell is facing growing pressure to resign over his handling of an alleged sex abuser priest.
However, in a message written for The Press, Archbishop Stephen says Christmas brings a reminder that "in the prayer Jesus gave us, that we can find a way forward".
Archbishop Stephen is getting ready to take over the Archbishop of Canterbury’s official functions temporarily from January 6, and in his 2024 Christmas message says this time of year isn't all about grand gestures.
Writing in The Press he says: "There is brightness in the small, meaningful acts—sharing a meal, offering a kind word, or joining others in song.
"Perhaps this Christmas, we resist the urge for strawberries flown across the globe and instead embrace what’s local, simple, and sustainable—living more humbly in harmony with the planet.
"Over the years, we've encountered words like pandemic, perseverance, Goblin mode, and Rizz taking cultural centre stage.
"Yet, Christmas reminds us of the quiet power of ordinariness. There is brightness in the small, meaningful acts—sharing a meal, offering a kind word, or joining others in song.
For those left wondering, 'goblin mode' is a slang term that describes a type of behaviour that's unapologetically self-indulgent, lazy, and slovenly, while also rejecting social norms.
And rizz is a shortened version of the word "charisma". It became popular online, especially on TikTok, where the hashtag "#rizz" has billions of views.
Archbishop Stephen said: "For many this time of year is a time to look back, reflect, and ponder the year’s highlights.
"This year, the Cambridge Dictionary crowned "manifest" as the 2024 word of the year. Words are full of evolving meanings and traditions. In the 14th century, the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer spelled it as manyfest, meaning ‘easily noticed or obvious.’
"Today, it has grown to mean something much deeper—a belief in imagining and achieving your goals through faith and intention.
"Christmas itself feels like a manifestation—of love, hope, and joy. Yet, even during this season of light, we sometimes falter: choosing the wrong present, prioritising ourselves over others, or letting tasks slip through our fingers. But Christmas also brings a beautiful reminder: in the prayer Jesus gave us, that we can find a way forward."
Next year the Archbishop will be embarking on a journey of his own a 'Lord’s Prayer tour' through the cathedrals of northern England.
He ends his message: "I pray that we let the peace of Christ manifest in our lives and share it with all we meet. May His light guide us to love, generosity, and joy.
"Wishing you a blessed and joyful Christmas."
To find a service at a church near to where you live, visit www.achurchnearyou.com