My Favourite Hymns Episode Guide

Episode Guide

• 1st Sunday of Advent

  Father Peter Sayer of St Walburge's Church in Preston leads a service celebrating the first Sunday of Advent, with members of the Salvation Army and followers of the Methodist and Anglican faiths

• 3rd Sunday in Advent - Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin

  The Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin from London leads a service to celebrate the third Sunday of Advent, recorded at St Walburge's Church in Preston

• 3rd Sunday of Advent

  The Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin of Holy Trinity, Brompton, leads a full act of worship to mark the third Sunday of Advent from St Walburge's Church in Preston. Introduced by John Stapleton

• Advent

  Dean Ken Riley presides over a full service in magnificent Manchester Cathedral, where the first candle of Advent will be lit

• All Souls and All Souls - Rev Jay MacLeod

  The Rev Jay MacLeod of the Church of England leads an act of worship celebrating All Saints and All Souls at St Walburge's Church in Preston

• Amici Forever : Geoff and Tsakane

  Opera singers Geoff Sewell and Tsakane Valentine of acclaimed ensemble Amici Forever discuss their music and choose their favourite hymns. Plus, an act of worship from Beadlam in Yorkshire, led by Rosemary Wass, president of the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women

• Ann Widdecombe

  MP Ann Widdecombe makes her selection and talks to John Stapleton about her life and career in the political arena, revealing her reasons for turning to religion

• Anna Raeburn

  Broadcaster and agony aunt Anna Raeburn talks to John Stapleton about her failed ambitions to become an actress, her work on a sex magazine and how discovering her Jewish roots helped her through tough personal times. Plus, Baroness Julia Neuberger leads a service from the West London Synagogue to mark National Holocaust Day

• Anna Raeburn

  Broadcaster Anna Raeburn talks to John Stapleton about her long and varied career, revealing how her faith has helped guide her through difficult times, and picks her favourite pieces of sacred music. Plus, Fr Denis Blackledge leads a short service for National Holocaust Memorial Day in Blackpool

• Anne Atkins

  Writer, broadcaster and agony aunt Anne Atkins makes her selection and explains to John Stapleton how her faith helped her understand the meaning of love, while Imam Mumtiaz Hussain leads the act of faith from Didsbury's mosque

• Anniversary of the Welsh Revival

  Celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Welsh Revival from St Walburge's Church in Preston, led by the Rev Peter Barker and the Rev Kevin Adams from South Wales

• Archbishop of Canterbury

  The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams reveals his personal favourites and talks to John Stapleton about his role as head of the worldwide Anglican community of 70 million people. The Rev John Smith of the Evangelical Alliance presents an act of faith

• Archbishop of Canterbury

  Archbishop of Canterbury Dr George Carey talks to John Stapleton about his experiences at the helm of the Church of England as he looks forward to retirement in autumn. He reveals how his enduring faith has supported him through difficult and controversial times and makes his personal selection of hymns. The programme also marks Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee with Canon Robert Wright

• The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams

  Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams takes John Stapleton through his own personal favourites, and talks about his role as head of the Anglican Church. Plus, an act of faith presented by the Rev John Smith of the Evangelical Alliance

• Archbishop of York, David Hope

  Archbishop of York Dr David Hope talks to John Stapleton about his childhood, faith and role in the Anglican Church, selecting personal favourites from the hymn-book, including Father Hear the Prayer We Offer and Praise My Soul the King of Heaven

• Baptist

  The Rev Ian Burley leads an act of worship from Oakes Baptist Church in Huddersfield

• Benjamin Zephaniah

  Poet Benjamin Zephaniah talks to John Stapleton about why he turned down an OBE and discusses his childhood in Birmingham, including his teenage criminal record and parents' volatile relationship. He also describes his fascination with religion, which led to his becoming a Rastafarian, and how marriage to a Pakistani woman affected his family

• Bill Roache

  Veteran actor Bill Roache, better known as Coronation Street's Ken Barlow, discusses his interest in religions including Buddhism and Druidism and reveals how he and wife Sarah coped with the loss of their 18-month-old daughter. His choice of hymns includes There is a Green Hill Far Away and No Coward's Song is Mine

• Bradford Abundant Life

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Bradford Abundant Life

  Morning worship from the Church of the Abundant Life in Bradford, presented by Pastor and founder Paul Scanlon

• Bradford - Paul Scanlon

  Pastor Paul Scanlon leads a full act of Pentecostal worship from the Abundant Life Centre in Bradford

• Brian Blessed

  John Stapleton welcomes actor Brian Blessed, who reveals how faith has helped his career on stage and screen, and introduces an act of worship celebrating the life of St George, led by the Rev Paul Travis

• Brian Moore

  Sports presenter Brian Moore tells John Stapleton how his life has changed since he rediscovered his faith

• Bruce Jones

  Coronation Street actor Bruce Jones talks to John Stapleton about his real-life brush with a murderer and reveals how his faith helped him through times of hardship. Plus, Brother Imtiaz Hussein marks the Muslim season of Ramadan

• Candlemas

  Blackpool's Father Denis Blackledge leads the worship at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, where the congregation celebrate the end of the Christmas festivities and the beginning of preparations for Lent with a Candlemas service. Singing comes courtesy of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral Choir

• Candlemas

  A service from Manchester Cathedral to celebrate Candlemas : the end of the Christmas festivities and looking forward to Lent : with the Rev Hilary Barber

• Canon Paul Denby

  Canon Paul Denby leads a full service celebrating the life of St Paul from Manchester Cathedral, featuring contemporary experiences of journeys to Damascus

• Catholic

  Father Peter Sayer leads a service in celebration of the Feast of the Assumption from St Walburge's Church in Preston

• Catholic Epiphany

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Catholic Full Act of Worship

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Charles Kennedy

  Leader of the Liberal Democrats Charles Kennedy talks about his rural Scottish upbringing within a close-knit family and his extraordinary rise to prominence. He also makes his personal selection of hymns, including Eternal Father, Strong to Save and I Vow to Thee My Country. John Stapleton presents

• Charles Kennedy

  Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy makes his selection and talks to John Stapleton about how faith influences his politics

• Charles Spencer

  Charles Spencer discusses life in the public eye and tells John Stapleton about the forthright speech he made at the funeral of his sister Diana, Princess of Wales. He also chooses hymns including Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory and Hills of the North Rejoice, while the Act of Worship comes from Lancaster Cathedral

• Charlie Landsborough

  Country singer Charlie Landsborough talks to John Stapleton about life on the wrong side of the law and chooses the hymns he holds dear. Plus, Father Denis Blackledge leads a service from St Kentigern's Church in Blackpool

• Chris de Burgh

  Irish singer Chris de Burgh talks to John Stapleton about the effect his boarding school education had on his relationship with his father, and explains how his marriage survived in spite of infidelity. He also discusses his music career, including how he was discovered by two songwriters and the success of Lady in Red. Plus, Father Alf Hayes leads an act of faith from St Joseph's Church in Preston

• Chris Patten

  European Commissioner Chris Patten talks to John Stapleton about his life as the last governor of Hong Kong and selects his favourite hymns. Plus, Father Matthew Power leads an act of worship at Stonyhurst College

• Christian Aid Week

  A special service from Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral to mark the start of Christian Aid Week, led by the Rt Rev Dr Rupert Hoare

• The Church of England Full Act of Worship

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Cicely Saunders

  The founder of the modern-day hospice movement, Dame Cicely Saunders, talks to John Stapleton about international recognition and falling in love with terminally ill patients. Plus, the act of worship is led by Father Paul Daly and Father Chris Gorton from Liverpool

• Cliff Richard

  Cliff Richard offers his choice of hymns and discusses the influence his Christian faith has had on his successful music career. He also talks about his childhood in India and first-hand experience of bullying at school, as well as revealing why he decided to drop his given name and model himself on Elvis Presley. Plus, the Rev Lawrie Adam celebrates the future with an act of worship from St Mary's Church in Cheadle

• Clive Lloyd

  Former Lancashire and West Indies cricket captain Clive Lloyd talks to John Stapleton about his illustrious sporting career, his life and faith. Speaking at his Manchester home, Clive reveals how he developed leadership qualities as a child following his father's death and talks candidly about his son's serious illness, which left him fighting for life. His hymn choices include Morning Has Broken and Amazing Grace, and are accompanied by an act of worship from Knutsford Methodist Church, led by the Rev Paul Wilson

• Commonwealth Games

  A service from Lancaster Cathedral to celebrate the start of the Commonwealth Games in Manchester, led by the Rev Lawrie Adam

• Dame Cicely Saunders

  Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern-day hospice movement, talks to John Stapleton about her work with terminally ill patients and gives her personal selection of hymns, including Immortal Love Forever Full and Amazing Grace. Also, a service from Manchester for Education Sunday on the theme of Moving On

• Dame Vera Lynn

  On the anniversary of D-Day, Dame Vera Lynn tells John Stapleton how she became known as the forces' sweetheart during World War Two after winning a soldiers' vote in a newspaper competition. The programme also features a Catholic act of faith to mark Trinity Sunday, with Father Grant Maddock

• Daniel O'Donnell

  Internationally acclaimed Irish folk singer Daniel O'Donnell offers his personal selection of hymns, including Abide with Me and Morning Has Broken. He also talks to John Stapleton about his childhood on the rural west coast of Ireland, the pressures of fame, the Catholic Church and his work with Romanian orphans. Plus, Lancaster Cathedral's Father Paul Embery celebrates Epiphany : the last day of Christmas

• Danny La Rue

  Presenter Richard Whiteley talks to leading female impersonator Danny La Rue about his larger-than-life career and childhood desire to become a priest. Plus, an act of worship from the Salvation Army in Sale, Cheshire, led by Major Chick Yuill

• David Bellamy

  Environmentalist and botanist David Bellamy talks to John Stapleton about his career and family life, including how he met wife Rosemary and why they chose to adopt four children. He also explains his reasons for running as a Referendum Party candidate, describes the time he spent in a New Zealand prison and admits he used to think he would become a ballet dancer. Plus, the Rev Sarah Tillett leads a celebration of conservation from the Midlands

• David Blunkett

  Home Secretary David Blunkett talks to John Stapleton about how his faith has complemented his political ambitions and career so far and reveals which hymns are his particular favourites, and the Rev Michael Burgess celebrates the life of St Francis of Assisi

• David Emanuel

  Fashion designer David Emanuel discusses his faith and connections with the royal family, and the Rev David Felix leads an act of worship from Daresbury Church near Lymm, Cheshire

• David Mellor

  MP-turned-broadcaster David Mellor talks to John Stapleton about his life, loves and losses and chooses the religious music that means the most to him. Also, United Reform minister Camilla Veitch presents an act of faith to mark Ascension

• David Owen

  David Owen talks to John Stapleton about his illustrious career in politics and the part faith played in his greatly admired peace-keeping efforts around the world. Plus, evangelist the Rev Joel Edwards leads a service from London

• David Soul

  American actor and Seventies pop idol David Soul, best known to viewers as one half of tough cop duo Starsky and Hutch, tells John Stapleton his opinions on fame and how his strict Lutheran upbringing influenced his search for meaningful faith. Plus, the Rev Denis Blackledge leads the act of worship

• Demis Roussos

  Greek crooner and former kaftan-man Demis Roussos chooses his favourite hymns and talks to John Stapleton about his faith, losing weight, going solo and kidnappers in Beirut

• Demis Roussos

  Greek singer Demis Roussos discusses his career, losing weight and encountering kidnappers in Beirut, before making his selection of favourite hymns. Plus, Father Denis Blackledge leads an act of worship from Blackpool

• Denise Robertson

  Agony aunt Denise Robertson reveals how her faith has helped her through the traumas of life, and chooses the hymns which mean most to her. Plus, the Rev Brian Haymes leads a service from Bloomsbury Baptist Church in central London. Presented by John Stapleton

• Dickie Bird

  Legendary former test cricket umpire Dickie Bird chooses his favourite hymns and talks to John Stapleton about his spiritual beliefs

• Disability and Faith

  The Rev Frances Edwards leads an act of worship focusing on disability and faith from St Walburge's church in Preston

• Donny Osmond

  Donny Osmond talks to John Stapleton about why he came close to quitting showbusiness. He also discusses how he avoided a breakdown and makes his personal selection of hymns. Plus, Bishop Malcolm Beverley leads a service from the Church of Latter-day Saints in Chorley

• Dora Bryan

  Actress and comedienne Dora Bryan selects her best-loved hymns and tells John Stapleton how her Christian faith helped her cope with personal tragedy

• Doreen Keogh

  Irish actress Doreen Keogh talks to John Stapleton about a career that took her from Coronation Street to Hollywood and discusses the part faith has played in her life. Bishop Patrick O'Donoghue celebrates St Patrick's Day at Lancaster Cathedral

• Dr Jonathan Sacks

  Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks discusses his favourite psalms and prayers with John Stapleton and there's a service to commemorate the first anniversary of the terror attacks on New York and Washington at the American Church in London, led by the Rev Stephen Rettenmayer

• Eamonn Holmes

  TV presenter Eamonn Holmes talks to John Stapleton about growing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, and reveals his selection of favourite hymns. Plus, the Rev David Jenkins leads a service marking National Refugee Week from All Saints Church in Daresbury, near Warrington

• Easter Sunday

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Easter Sunday

  Dean Ken Riley conducts a special service for Easter Sunday from Manchester Cathedral, celebrating the rebuilding of the city centre nearly five years after an IRA bomb ripped into the main shopping area, destroying retail outlets and injuring 206 people

• Easter Sunday

  The Rev Lawrie Adam leads a full service in celebration of Easter Sunday, from Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral

• Edward Woodward

  Edward Woodward chooses his preferred tunes and talks to John Stapleton about his life, beliefs and how a near-fatal illness cured his fear of death. Plus, a service from Dalton's Holy Trinity Church, led by the Rev Richenda Leigh

• Engelbert Humperdinck

  Singer Engelbert Humperdinck chooses his personal selection of hymns and talks to John Stapleton about his career in showbusiness, his ability to heal people, and why he believes Elvis stole his haircut. Plus, the Rev Alan Sorensen of the Church of Scotland leads an act of faith

• Eric Sykes

  Veteran comedy actor Eric Sykes makes his personal selection and tells John Stapleton how he's coped with both blindness and deafness, as well as revealing a burden of guilt he's carried all his life

• Esther Rantzen
• Evangelical

  Pastor Paul Scanlon preaches faith, hope and charity at an evangelical service from Bradford's Abundant Life Centre

• Father Denis Blackledge

  Service from Blackpool marking the anniversary of the outbreak of war in Iraq, led by Father Denis Blackledge

• Father's Day

  The Rev Stephen Kingsnorth of the Warrington Methodist Mission conducts a full service at Lancaster Cathedral to celebrate Father's Day

• Fay Weldon

  Feminist author Fay Weldon talks about the part religious faith has played in her life and reveals her personal selection of hymns. Emmerdale star Paula Tilbrook looks forward to the Queen's visit to the set of the popular soap with a guided tour of Weeton Church in the company of the Rev Stuart Lewis

• The Feast of Our Blessed Lady's Assumption

  Service to celebrate the Feast of Our Blessed Lady's Assumption from Lancaster Cathedral, led by Fr Alf Hayes and Fr Paul Embery

• First Sunday in Advent - Peter Sayer

  Father Peter Sayer celebrates the first Sunday in Advent in an act of worship from St Walburge's Church, Preston

• First Sunday of Lent

  An act of worship celebrating the first Sunday of Lent at Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral. David Jenkins of the United Reform Church leads a service on the theme of wilderness

• First Sunday of Lent

  Father Stephen Pritchard leads a full act of worship to celebrate the first Sunday of Lent from Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral

• Forgiveness - Denis Blackledge

  Father Denis Blackledge leads today's act of worship celebrating forgiveness, from Manchester Cathedral

• Frances Shand Kydd

  The late Frances Shand Kydd talks about how her faith helped her deal with personal trauma, including the death of her daughter Diana, Princess of Wales, and reveals which hymns she finds most inspirational. The Rev John Smith of the Evangelical Alliance presents an act of faith

• Frank Carson

  Comedian Frank Carson joins John Stapleton to discuss his life and career, remembering fondly the night he was impersonated by a member of the royal family. Worship is led by Canon Alf Hayes from Lancashire

• Frank McCourt

  Author Frank McCourt talks to John Stapleton about how his poverty-stricken childhood formed the inspiration for his first novel, Angela's Ashes, and makes his personal selection of hymns. Plus, Canon Alf Hayes celebrates Trinity Sunday with a service at Kirkham, near Preston

• Freddie Trueman

  International and Yorkshire cricketing legend Freddie Trueman talks to John Stapleton about his faith and the narrow escape he had from a life-threatening illness, as well as choosing his best-loved hymns : including Morning Has Broken

• Full Act of Worship - Hopes and Dreams

  The Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin leads an act of worship from St Walburge's Church in Preston, celebrating hopes and dreams

• Full Act Rogation Sunday

  The Rev Richenda Leigh conducts a Rogation Sunday service from Lancaster Cathedral, with special prayers for the farming community

• FW de Clerk

  Former South African President FW de Klerk makes his musical selection and talks to John Stapleton about apartheid and his difficult relationship with Nelson Mandela. The Rev Paul Travis also leads a multi-faith act of worship to mark Racism Sunday

• Geoffrey Hughes

  Heartbeat actor Geoffrey Hughes talks to John Stapleton about his childhood in Liverpool, his first stage performance at the age of 13 and his rise to fame as Eddie Yeats in Coronation Street. He also describes his successful battle with prostate cancer and reveals his plans for retirement on the Isle of Wight, after more than 40 years in the business. Plus, the Rev Paul Travis leads a service from Leeds on Loving Thy Neighbour

• Gloria Hunniford

  Talk show host Gloria Hunniford drops in to discuss her views on life in the public eye and reveals the secrets of her success. Plus, the Rev Lawrie Adam leads a service celebrating the baptism of Christ, from Ashton-under-Lyme, near Oldham

• Gordon Banks

  Former England goalkeeper Gordon Banks, part of the 1966 World Cup-winning team, makes a personal selection and discusses his religious beliefs with John Stapleton

• Harvest Festival

  Celebrating Harvest Festival with a full act of worship from Manchester Cathedral, led by the Rev David Jenkins from Wilmslow United Reform Church, Cheshire

• Hayley Mills

  Actress and animal rights campaigner Hayley Mills talks about her stage and screen career, from child star to mature performer, and chooses her favourite hymns, while Canon Alf Hayes celebrates Trinity Sunday at The Willows in Kirkham, near Preston

• Helen Kennedy QC

  Helena Kennedy QC makes her selection and tells John Stapleton about the sexism she encountered on entering the legal profession, as well as her fight to overturn an infamous miscarriage of justice. The service comes from All Saints Church in Daresbury near Warrington, where the Rev David Jenkins celebrates World Prayer Day

• Iain Duncan Smith

  John Stapleton welcomes Conservative Party leader Iain Duncan Smith, who selects his favourite spiritual songs and discusses life, love and politics. Plus, a service celebrating the Annunciation, led by the Rev Richenda Leigh at Dalston's Holy Trinity Church

• James Hewitt

  Major James Hewitt talks to John Stapleton about his relationship with Princess Diana, including the press coverage their affair attracted and his controversial decision to sell her love letters. He also discusses his struggles with dyslexia, his army career which involved a stint in the Gulf War, and the reasons why he chose to take part in two reality TV shows. Plus, a celebration of Advent, led by the Rev Matthew Woodward

• Jane Lapotaire

  Actress Jane Lapotaire reveals how she survived a near-fatal brain haemorrhage, and shares her selection of inspirational music. Plus, the Rev Sarah Tillett leads the act of worship from the Midlands

• Jane Lapotaire

  Actress Jane Lapotaire reveals how she survived a near-fatal brain haemorrhage, and shares her selection of inspirational music. Plus, the Rev Alan Sorencen celebrates Palm Sunday with a service from Greenock

• Jean Boht

  Actress Jean Boht chooses her personal selection of hymns and talks to John Stapleton about life after Carla Lane comedy Bread, and her campaign on behalf of flood victims in Wales. There's also a celebration of seasonal resolutions and new beginnings as the Rev Paul Travis opens up his chapel in the heart of Leeds

• Jean Marsh

  Actress Jean Marsh, who appears in a new TV adaptation of Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge next week, discusses her life, career and beliefs, choosing a personal selection of hymns that have helped her through difficult times. Plus, worship from Leeds, with Unitarian minister the Rev Paul Travis

• Jeffrey Archer

  Author Jeffrey Archer talks to John Stapleton about his spirituality and whether a politician can ever be a good Christian

• Jenny Pitman

  Racehorse trainer-turned-novelist Jenny Pitman talks to John Stapleton about how her faith was tested in her battle against illness. Plus, the Rev Lawrie Adam leads an act of worship from Ashton-under-Lyne in Cheshire

• Jilly Cooper

  Novelist Jilly Cooper talks to John Stapleton about the joy she has experienced through adopting children and selects her favourite hymns. Plus, the Rev Richenda Leigh leads a service from Holy Trinity Church, London, celebrating heroes and heroines

• Jilly Cooper

  Novelist Jilly Cooper talks to John Stapleton about the joy she has experienced through adopting children and selects her favourite hymns. Plus, the Rev Jay MacLeod leads an act of worship from All Saints Church in Micklehurst

• Joel Edwards

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Julia Neuberger

  Britain's first female Rabbi, Julia Neuberger, talks about her faith and commitment to social issues, revealing the hymns which have helped her through difficult times

• Julian Lloyd Webber

  Distinguished cellist Julian Lloyd Webber talks to John Stapleton about his life and career, revealing that he believes his talent to be God-given, before sharing a personal selection of hymns that have helped him through difficult times. Plus, a Christmas message from the Rev Richenda Leigh of Holy Trinity, Dalston in London

• Julie Peasgood

  Actress Julie Peasgood introduces a selection of her favourite Buddhist songs of praise, including Dare to Believe and We Will Win, and invites John Stapleton to chant along with her

• Kathy Staff

  Actress Kathy Staff, better known as Last of the Summer Wine's Nora Batty, selects her best-loved hymns, and tells John Stapleton about the influence faith has had on her career. Plus, an act of worship to mark the start of Lent, with the Rev Lawrie Adam

• Katie Boyle

  One-time Eurovision hostess, model and game show participant Katie Boyle talks about how her faith has helped her come to terms with a violent upbringing and brushes with death, and reveals her personal selection of hymns. The act of worship is led by the Rev Lawrie Adam

• Ken Dodd

  Comedian Ken Dodd makes his musical selection and talks to John Stapleton about life on the stage, his love for the city and people of Liverpool and why he believes God wants people to laugh. He also discusses his childhood, a dislike of churches and how political correctness has affected his act. Plus, the Rev Lawrie Adam leads an act of faith from St Cuthbert's Church in Cheadle

• Ken Russell

  Controversial film-maker Ken Russell makes his personal selection of hymns and reveals how faith has kept him going through the rough times in his career. There's also a look at the story of the Good Samaritan, with Anglican minister Richenda Leigh

• Lady Mary Archer

  Scientist Mary Archer talks candidly to John Stapleton about her marriage to disgraced former Tory MP Jeffrey and reveals how she balances the demands of work with the challenge of raising two sons. Her choice of hymns includes Oh Sacred Head Sore Wounded and The Spacious Firmament on High

• Liz Dawn

  Coronation Street actress Liz Dawn talks to John Stapleton about her role in one of Britain's best-loved soaps and chooses her favourite hymns. Plus, the Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin leads a London service celebrating the end of the year

• Lord Bath

  The Marquess of Bath joins John Stapleton to reveal his personal selections, and discuss how his faith has helped him cope with family tragedy, and hospital chaplain the Rev Robert Thompson celebrates the Jewish feast of Yom Kippur in London

• Lord Hattersley

  Lord Hattersley makes his selection and discusses the day he discovered a family secret. Plus, the Rev David Felix leads a service from All Saints Church in Daresbury, Cheshire. John Stapleton presents

• Lord Puttnam

  Award-winning film-maker David Puttnam's screen credits include Chariots of Fire, Local Hero, The Mission and The Killing Fields, achievements which led to a brief sojourn in Hollywood. On his return to Britain, he embarked on a life of public service, determined to restore ethical and educational values in the cinema. Here he tells John Stapleton about his unpromising school career and the faith which underlies his work

• Lynne Franks

  PR guru Lynne Franks talks to John Stapleton about her spiritual journey and selects the songs which have touched her life. Plus, the Rev Lawrie Adam celebrates Palm Sunday with a service from St James Church, Aston-under-Lyne

• Martin Bell

  Former journalist and MP Martin Bell tells John Stapleton about life on the front line in both wars and Parliament, and reveals how faith and superstition have played their parts in his life. Father Stephen Pritchard from Liverpool leads the act of worship

• Martin Bell

  Former journalist and MP Martin Bell, now an ambassador for Unicef, tells John Stapleton about life on the front line in wars and parliament, and reveals how his faith has sustained him. Worship for Palm Sunday comes from Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church, Cheshire, and is led by the Rev David Martin

• Mary Archer

  Mary Archer joins John Stapleton to discuss how faith has helped her through difficult times, and reveals the impact of her husband's imprisonment. Hymns selected include Brightest and Best Sons of the Morning, Oh Sacred Head Sore Wounded and The Spacious Firmament on High

• Maya Angelou

  Writer and anti-racism campaigner Dr Maya Angelou tells John Stapleton how faith helped her forgive a man who attacked her and the Rev Joel Edwards of the Evangelical Alliance celebrates National Refugee Week

• Maya Angelou

  African-American author Maya Angelou shares her memories of Martin Luther King and tells John Stapleton how her faith helped her overcome the bigotry, hatred and abuse she faced as a child in America's Deep South

• Mothering Sunday

  A special service from Manchester Cathedral to celebrate Mothering Sunday, led by Church of England minister the Rev David Felix

• Mothering Sunday

  London-based hospital chaplain the Rev Richenda Leigh leads a service in celebration of Mothering Sunday from Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral

• Mothering Sunday

  The Rev Richenda Leigh leads a full act of worship to celebrate Mothering Sunday, from Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral

• Norman Wisdom

  John Stapleton talks to comedian Norman Wisdom about his poverty-stricken childhood and the parental rejection that shaped his character and led to his yearning ambition

• Paul Boateng

  MP and Methodist lay preacher Paul Boateng, who has the distinction of being Britain's first black Cabinet Minister, makes his selection and discusses life in the public eye, while comedian Jimmy Cricket and the Rev Lawrie Adam celebrate faith and humour

• Paul Boateng

  The Rt Hon Paul Boateng, MP for Brent South and Financial Secretary to the Treasury, selects his favourite hymns and discusses his life and faith with John Stapleton, recalling the terror of the night armed soldiers snatched his father from the family home

• Peace Day - Paul Travis

  For the first time on British television members of four different faiths pray together for world peace. Unitarian minister the Rev Paul Travis leads the gathering at Liverpool's Metropolitan Cathedral

• Pentecost

  The Rev Rose Hudson leads a full act of worship in celebration of Pentecost, from St Walburge's Church in Preston

• Pentecost - Richenda Leigh

  From St Walburge's Church in Preston, where hospital chaplain the Rev Richenda Leigh leads a full act of worship in celebration of Pentecost

• Princess Michael of Kent

  Princess Michael of Kent talks to John Stapleton about her life in the pubic eye, including the incident in a New York restaurant earlier this year that saw her being branded a racist. The princess also reveals her frustration at having to give up her career when she married into the Royal Family, and explains the reasons behind her faith. Plus, the act of worship led by Baptist minister Stu Davison

• Rannulph Fiennes

  Celebrities talk about their lives, careers and faith and reveal a personal selection of hymns that have helped them through difficult times

• Remembrance Sunday

  In celebration of Remembrance Sunday, the Rev David Felix leads a full service at Lancaster Cathedral, with the Preston Salvation Army band and choir

• Richard Thorp

  Actor Richard Thorp, who plays Emmerdale's Alan Turner, joins John Stapleton to talk about his life, faith and love of motorbikes. Plus, the Rev Paul Travis leads a service on the theme of time from his church, Mill Hill Chapel in Leeds

• Richard Whiteley

  Veteran presenter Richard Whiteley, host of Channel 4's long-running quiz Countdown, joins John Stapleton to reveal his favourite pieces of sacred music, and talk about his career, the role of faith in his life and his links with a Yorkshire school. Plus, the Rev Robert Thompson looks forward to the festive season

• Richenda Leigh - Harvest

  The Rev Richenda Leigh leads a full act of worship in London in celebration of harvest

• Rick Wakeman

  Rock veteran Rick Wakeman, former keyboard player with the Strawbs and Yes, explains how his beliefs have supported him through some very traumatic times : including three marriages and a heart attack at the age of 25. On a lighter note, comedian Jimmy Cricket and the Rev Lawrie Adam present a humorous celebration of faith

• Roddy Llewellyn

  Television gardener Roddy Llewellyn talks to John Stapleton about his earlier life as a socialite and how faith has helped him through difficult times, including recovering from a mental breakdown. Plus, an act of faith celebrating Diwali

• Roddy Llewellyn

  TV gardener Roddy Llewellyn, former boyfriend of the late Princess Margaret, talks to John Stapleton about his religious faith, which helped him through difficult times. The Rev John Smith of the Evangelical Alliance also presents an act of faith

• Roy Hudd

  Veteran funnyman Roy Hudd talks to John Stapleton about his wartime experiences as an evacuee and the influence of his mother. Plus, a service marking unity between the Church of England and the Methodist Church from Beadlam in Yorkshire, led by the Rev John Warden and the Rev Sue Greenwood

• Saeed Jaffrey

  Indian actor Saeed Jaffrey talks to John Stapleton about his Muslim and Christian faiths and reveals a personal selection of hymns that have helped him through difficult times. Plus, Brother Imtiaz Hussein marks the start of Ramadan

• Saints Peter and Paul

  Father Denis Blackledge of Blackpool leads a service celebrating the lives of Saints Peter and Paul, from St Walburge's Church, Preston

• Service from St Bride's

  Trevor McDonald introduces a special memorial service from St Bride's Church in the heart of Fleet Street, commemorating the 18 journalists killed in the Iraq war. The congregation will be addressed by press baron Lord Rothermere and the BBC's John Simpson

• Shobna Gulati

  Coronation Street actress Shobna Gulati talks to John Stapleton about her struggle as a single mum and selects her favourite hymns. Plus, worship in celebration of the Ascension, led by the Rev Richenda Leigh

• Simon Weston

  Simon Weston talks to John Stapleton about his experiences in the Falklands War, where he sustained severe injuries, and about the religious faith that has helped in his recovery and set him on a new path as a charity worker. Plus, a commemoration of the conflict's anniversary with Major Chick Yuill of the Salvation Army at St Luke's Church in Wythenshaw, Manchester

• Simon Weston
• Simon Weston

  Falklands veteran Simon Weston talks to John Stapleton about his war experiences and explains how faith aided his recovery and why he decided to meet the man responsible for his injuries. He also discusses his charity Weston Spirit, which helps inner-city youngsters, while the Rev Lawrie Adam leads an act of worship to commemorate Remembrance Day

• Sir Harry Secombe

  Featuring an interview with the late Harry Secombe, a veteran religious broadcaster whose career in showbusiness brought delight to thousands. Despite eventually losing his battle against cancer, the former Goon explains here how his faith helped him in his darkest hours, and how one of his favourite hymns, Abide with Me, brought tears to his eyes

• Sir John Tavener

  Composer John Tavener talks to John Stapleton about his spirituality and discusses why he feels guided by God, before making his selection of music. Plus, Pastor Stuart Davison leads a service from Liverpool

• Sir John Tavener

  Composer John Tavener talks about his life, career and faith, and reveals a personal selection of hymns that have helped him through difficult times

• Sir Ranulph Fiennes

  Legendary polar explorer Ranulph Fiennes talks to John Stapleton about how faith has helped him through his gruelling expeditions. Plus, an act of worship led by the Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin of London

• Sue Johnston

  Actress Sue Johnston talks to John Stapleton about her role as Sheila Grant in Brookside and later success in The Royle Family and selects hymns including Abide With Me, Dear Lord and Father of Mankind and Glad That I Live am I

• Sue Nicholls

  Coronation Street star Sue Nicholls chooses her favourite hymns and talks to John Stapleton about how faith helped her through testing times during her stage career. Plus, an act of worship from Whalley Range Methodist Church in Manchester, conducted by minister Victoria Bravette

• Susie Blake

  Coronation Street actress Susie Blake joins John Stapleton to discuss her faith and reveal what life's like behind the bar at the Rovers Return. Plus, a service led by Baptist minister Stu Davison

• Tanni Grey-Thompson

  Paralympic gold medallist Tanni Grey-Thompson talks to John Stapleton about her dedication to athletics, explaining why she trained on her wedding day, honeymoon and just three weeks after giving birth to her daughter. She also describes her childhood and how her parents inspired her to become such a successful athlete. Plus, the Rev John Smith of the Evangelical Alliance leads an act of faith celebrating trust

• Terry Waite

  Terry Waite talks to John Stapleton about being kidnapped in Beirut during his work as a peace envoy for the Archbishop of Canterbury. Plus, the Rev Sharon Jones leads an act of worship to mark Prisoners' Sunday, from Forest Bank prison near Manchester

• Terry Waite

  Former Beirut hostage Terry Waite tells John Stapleton about his time as a peace envoy for the Archbishop of Canterbury, while the Rev Nicky Gumbel and former prisoner the Rev Paul Cowley mark Prayers for Prisoners Day at Holy Trinity Brompton in London

• Tony Benn

  Former MP and Cabinet Minister Tony Benn talks to John Stapleton about his life, extraordinary political career and faith. His selection of hymns includes Jerusalem and Lord God of Abraham

• Tony Booth

  Actor Tony Booth talks to John Stapleton about his life and describes how his faith helped him recover after being badly injured in a fire. Plus, the Rev Rose Hudson Wilkin leads a Palm Sunday service from Holy Trinity Church in London

• Tony Booth

  Actor Tony Booth reveals a personal selection of hymns and talks about how his faith helped him recover from a traumatic experience in which he nearly lost his life in a fire. Plus, the Rev Jay MacLeod leads an act of worship for the fourth Sunday before Lent

• Toyah Willcox

  Television personality Toyah Willcox joins John Stapleton to make a personal selection and reveal how her religious beliefs have helped her through tough times. Plus, the Rev Anne Kennedy celebrates Youth Sunday at Lancaster Cathedral

• Tracy Edwards

  Round-the-world yachtswoman Tracy Edwards makes her selection of favourite hymns, and talks to John Stapleton about her unwavering faith, while the Rev Arani Sen presents worship inspired by his Indian heritage

• Trinity Sunday

  A full service from Manchester Cathedral to celebrate Trinity Sunday, with Father Denis Blackledge and the cathedral choir

• Wayne Sleep

  Wayne Sleep talks to John Stapleton about the difficult relationship he had with his stepfather and how he had to overcome anxieties about his height to become a successful ballet dancer. He also explains why finding religion helped him escape from the pressures of performing and reveals the secret to a long dancing career. Plus, Rabbi Bernd Koschland celebrates Yom Kippur

• Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

  Peace campaigner Bruce Kent tells John Stapleton about the struggle to follow his calling as a priest of the Roman Catholic Church while trying to rid the world of nuclear arms and the Rev David Felix celebrates Christian Unity in an act of worship from Daresbury near Warrington

• Wendy Richard

  Actress Wendy Richard talks to John Stapleton about her fight against breast cancer and chooses her favourite hymns. Plus, the Rev Paul Travis celebrates Epiphany with a service from Leeds

• William Roach
• William Roache

  Coronation Street actor William Roache talks to John Stapleton about his spiritual quest and chooses his favourite hymns. Reflecting on the character of Ken Barlow, who he has played since the beginning of the long-running soap, he concludes that the Weatherfield sage would do well to follow his example in seeking spiritual guidance