CAPTION: Bishop Mike with members of his family and the Archbishop of Canterbury following his Confirmation of Election
Bishop Mike Confirmed as Bishop of Exeter in Historic Lambeth Palace Ceremony
The Rt. Rev’d Dr Mike Harrison has been confirmed as the new Bishop of Exeter by the Archbishop of Canterbury in a service steeped in history at Lambeth Palace in London.
The ceremony, which includes elements of a medieval court of law, is known as the Confirmation of Election.
Its origins date from the fourth century AD. The Confirmation confers the spiritual jurisdiction of the diocese (in this case Devon) over to the bishop and signifies his endorsement by the wider Church.
During the ceremony, Bishop Mike was required to take oaths on the Bible and sign a Declaration of Assent.
The Vicar General then confirmed he had legally become the 72nd Bishop of Exeter.
Bishop Mike took oaths on the Bible before being declared the Bishop of Exeter
During the service, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev’d Justin Welby, gave Bishop Mike instructions for his new role, known as a Charge. He said “Every single person in the Diocese of Exeter, of all faiths or of no faith, is in your care.
“They all count equally, no matter who they are. I think you have a very joyful and exciting time ahead of you in Devon.”
Commenting on the confirmation, Bishop Mike thanked the Bishop of Crediton, the Rt. Rev’d Jackie Searle, who has been Acting Bishop of Exeter for the past year and said: “I am so grateful for the prayers and kindness that have surrounded myself, Rachel and the family as we prepare to move to Devon.
“This service marks a significant moment in that transition, and I am looking forward greatly to joining with sisters and brothers in the Diocese of Exeter in discerning where God is leading us as we seek to share the Good News of the love of Jesus Christ with the people of Devon.”
Bishop Mike will begin his new role on 2 November when his Service of Enthronement takes place at Exeter Cathedral.
