CHRISTIANS believe that Jesus Christ was the Son of God's own presence in our world.
This belief spread throughout the world, creating European civilisation. British history is literally part of Christian history, with Christian values and ideals inspiring its great achievements.
This is why the 'millennium moment' is a Christian moment, although it is a moment in which we can all share.
It is time to look back, with thanksgiving, but also forward into a new future. A Christian believes that each day is the first day of the rest of our lives, when there is always the potential for forgiveness and new beginnings.
All the Christian Churches are emphasising that marking the arrival of a new millennium is a golden opportunity for a new start with God, with each other, and with the poor.
We are called to work for a society based upon justice and love, truth, beauty and peace the ideals upon which our civilisation has been built.
These ideals and values are represented in the Millennium Resolution, which has been cast in words that will enable as many people as possible to say them:
"Let there be respect for the earth, peace for its people, love in our lives, delight in the good, forgiveness for past wrongs and the grace to make a new start for ourselves and for all the world."
Christians will add, "Amen."
May Christ, the Prince of Peace, be with you as we celebrate the fact that our days are numbered counting from the birth of God.
Dr. Peter Forster
Bishop of Chester