June with the Bishop of Norwich: new priests, new deacons, new people in post – and free candyfloss.
The month of June was a joyous and busy time for the Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, as he ordained six new priests and eight deacons in two solemn and joyful services at the Cathedral. This significant milestone marked the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of these individuals, who have dedicated themselves to serving the community and spreading the message of love and compassion. The services were a testament to the bishop’s commitment to nurturing and guiding the next generation of church leaders. As the bishop laid hands on the candidates, he imbued them with the power of the Holy Spirit, empowering them to go forth and make a positive impact in the world.
In addition to the ordinations, the bishop was also busy licensing priests to serve in various parishes and benefices across the diocese, including Great Yarmouth, Blofield, and Heartsease and St Stephen’s in Norwich. This marked a significant milestone for the priests, who were embarking on a new chapter in their ministry. The bishop’s presence and support were a source of comfort and inspiration to the new priests, who were eager to begin their work in their respective parishes. The bishop’s licensing of the priests was a reminder of the importance of community and the need for spiritual leaders to be present and engaged in the lives of their flock. As the bishop reflected on the significance of these events, he noted that “the licensing of new priests is a moment of great joy and celebration, as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life of our church.”
One of the highlights of the bishop’s month was his visit to the Royal Norfolk Show, where he met with people from various sectors, including education, environment, agriculture, and countryside initiatives. The bishop was particularly impressed by the work of Tom Ewin, a 20-year-old student who was awarded the Bishop of Norwich Sustainable Environment Young Employee of the Year award. Tom’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices was truly inspiring, and the bishop was delighted to present him with the award. The bishop also had the opportunity to meet with farmers, food producers, and young brother and sister shepherds, Toby and Niamh, who had won numerous awards for their Burgh Flock. The bishop’s visit to the Royal Norfolk Show was a testament to his commitment to engaging with the wider community and promoting the values of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The bishop’s diary was also filled with other notable events, including attending the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association’s ‘Big Debate’ on sharing data to help sustainable farming, and preaching and presiding at Diss parish church on Pentecost Sunday. He also licensed priests to new parishes and benefices, including the Revd Jassica Castillo-Burley at Great Yarmouth Minster, the Revd Julian Bryant at St Francis Heartsease, and the Revd Andrew Tapsell at St Andrew and St Peter, Blofield. The bishop’s presence at these events was a reminder of the importance of spiritual leadership and the need for the church to be engaged in the lives of its community. As the bishop reflected on the significance of these events, he noted that “the church has a vital role to play in promoting social justice and environmental sustainability, and I am committed to ensuring that our diocese is at the forefront of these efforts.”
The bishop’s commitment to environmental sustainability was also evident in his attendance at an eco-weekend at North Elmham church, where he participated in a range of activities aimed at promoting sustainability and reducing the church’s carbon footprint. The bishop also gave talks on environmental themes at Ipswich Minster and online to theological colleges, and preached about trees at St John’s College, Cambridge. His passion for environmental conservation was inspiring, and his words challenged the audience to think critically about their role in protecting the planet. The bishop’s commitment to environmental sustainability is a testament to his vision for a more just and equitable world, where the needs of all people and the planet are prioritized.
As a member of the House of Lords, the bishop also fulfilled his duties by scrutinizing legislation and asking questions on subjects ranging from navigation and funding in the Broads to how the Government is working to ensure international and humanitarian laws to prevent civilian casualties are followed in Gaza. The bishop’s presence in the House of Lords is a reminder of the important role that faith leaders can play in promoting social justice and holding those in power to account. As the bishop reflected on his role in the House of Lords, he noted that “as a faith leader, I am committed to promoting the values of compassion, justice, and equality, and I will continue to use my voice to advocate for the most vulnerable members of our society.”
In conclusion, the month of June was a busy and fulfilling time for the Bishop of Norwich, marked by significant milestones, joyful celebrations, and a deep commitment to promoting social justice and environmental sustainability. The bishop’s ordination of new priests and deacons, his licensing of priests to new parishes, and his engagement with the wider community are all testaments to his dedication to the church and its mission. As the bishop looks to the future, he remains committed to promoting the values of compassion, justice, and equality, and to using his voice to advocate for the most vulnerable members of society. The bishop’s leadership and vision are a source of inspiration and hope, and his ministry continues to make a positive impact on the lives of all those he serves.
