Archbishop lays down his crozier on the high altar at York Minster as his last act as Archbishop of York

The Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu, accompanied by his wife, the Revd Margaret Sentamu, laid down his crozier of office on the high altar of York Minster on Sunday 7 June. The Dean of York, the Rt Revd Dr Jonathan Frost and Head Verger Alex Carberry were witnesses to this final act as Archbishop.

The Dean of York said, “Today, in the simple and symbolic act of laying down his crozier, Archbishop Sentamu brought his ministry as Archbishop of York to a close. In current circumstances we have been unable to fulfil our hope to gather together for a service. However, in households and communities across the Diocese of York, the North and Nation, those whose lives have been graced by Sentamu and Margaret give thanks for their witness to the joy, simplicity and compassion of the good news of Jesus Christ.”

On 8 June 2020, Archbishop Sentamu concludes nearly 15 years in his role as Archbishop of York. He has served in ordained ministry within the Church of England for 41 years. The Archbishop will continue to live in the North of England, and has said he will continue with his work on the case for income equality and sustainability.

Photos taken by the Diocese of York are available HERE

The Diocese of York has released an online video tribute to Dr Sentamu, made during the ‘lockdown’ response to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, and based on a series of recollections recorded by lay and ordained people from across the Diocese which has been led by Archbishop Sentamu since the 30th November 2005.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby gave a General Synod address to Archbishop Sentamu which is available at: https://www.archbishopofcanterbury.org/news/latest-news/general-synod-archbishop-canterburys-tribute-archbishop-york

News article posted on behalf of  ABY and the York Diocese.

For media enquiries for the Archbishop of York, please contact Elizabeth Addy at email: Elizabeth.addy@archbishopofyork.org or at mb. 07738 354491

For media enquiries for the Diocese of York, please contact Martin Sheppard at email: martin.sheppard@yorkdiocese.org or at mb. 07377 356621