Diocese of Chichester

There was added poignancy this year as Bishop Martin was presiding at the annual service for the last time as Bishop of Chichester. He is due to retire at the end of May.

He welcomed a Cathedral full of clergy and laity and thanked them for all they had done during his fourteen years as bishop.

"You are the Diocese of Chichester" he told all those whom he thanked.

As well as renewing the ordination vows of bishops, priests and deacons, the holy oils used for ministry in parishes were blessed and distributed.

In his address, Dr Warner said: "Our task as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ is to nurture in the minds and hearts of the people of this generation that instinct for the truth revealed in the Holy Scriptures and set forth in the catholic creeds."

He said he was reminded this year of the words of St Augustine of Hippo " For you I am a bishop, with you I am a Christian" urging the congregation to stay true to their calling to be a household of faith serving east and west Sussex.

The Cathedral Choir were on top form providing superb music and readings were offered by members of the Bishop's Palace Staff with team members from Church House Hove leading the prayers.

Photos: Jim Holden

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