CAPTION: James Grier, new Bishop of Plymouth, will be consecrated this morning in a ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
Consecration of Bishop of Plymouth at Westminster Abbey
The new Bishop of Plymouth is being consecrated at Westminster Abbey later this morning in a ceremony led by the Archbishop of Canterbury. It means the Reverend Prebendary James Grier will become the very first new bishop to swear an oath of allegiance to King Charles. James, who grew up in Plymouth, said it was an honour to become a bishop at the abbey but that his focus was on serving the people of Devon and the South West.
He is a former parish priest, church-planting minister, and was the Mission Enabler for the Diocese of Exeter until taking up his new role.
Speaking when his appointment was announced by Downing Street in July, he said “I cannot think of a greater privilege than to become the Bishop of Plymouth.
The consecration will take place at Westminster Abbey in a service led by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
“I look forward to playing my part in expressing the love of Jesus at a time of difficulty and uncertainty for so many.
“The church may face many challenges, but I believe that now is a time for renewed faith, deeper prayer and continued serving. Christ offers hope, transformation and healing which is good news for us all.”
After his consecration, Bishop James will be undertaking a six day ‘Going in Prayer’ walking pilgrimage from Exeter to Plymouth.
He will begin at at Exeter Cathedral on Sunday 2 October and finish at St Andrew’s Church, Plymouth on Friday 7 October.
Bishop James will then be officially welcomed to the Diocese of Exeter with an installation service at Exeter Cathedral on Sunday 9 October at 3pm.
For more information and interviews please contact: Chloe Axford, Communications Director: chloe.axford@exeter.anglican.org / 07889 523776
Information about the Going in Prayer pilgrimage: https://www.devonpilgrim.org.uk/event/going-in-prayer/
