Consecrations to be livestreamed from York Minster
Consecrations of the Bishop of Doncaster and the Bishop of Sherwood to be livestreamed from York Minster
Two new Bishops will be consecrated in separate services taking place at York Minster on Monday 21 September.
The Revd Canon Sophie Jelley, former Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry in the Diocese of Durham and Canon Missioner at Durham Cathedral, will be consecrated as Bishop of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield. Sophie will be consecrated in the morning by The Archbishop of York, The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, assisted by the Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler and the Bishop of Sheffield, Pete Wilcox.
In the afternoon, the Revd Dr Andrew Emerton, former Dean of St Mellitus College, will be consecrated as Bishop of Sherwood in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. Andrew will be consecrated by the Bishop of Durham, the Revd Paul Butler, assisted by the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Paul Williams. The Archbishop of York will preside at both services.
The consecration services will take place in the context of the Eucharist and will include readings, prayers, music and a sermon.
The services will be held under careful guidelines because of the Coronavirus pandemic with strict limits on the numbers attending. Both services will be live-streamed making it possible for friends, family and members of the worldwide Christian Union to experience the occasions in real time.
Commenting on her forthcoming consecration, Sophie said: “Since the delayed consecration in March, I have been greatly blessed to join in the work in the Diocese of Sheffield as Bishop Designate of Doncaster and to meet many people from across the area. It will be a joy to be consecrated by Archbishop Stephen in his new role in the Northern Province. This is a great time to be serving in the North and I am excited to see how God shapes his church for the future as we respond to the challenge of coronavirus and help those in our communities to know that they are loved and valued by God.”
Commenting on his consecration service, Andy said:
“It has been a joy for me to begin to be involved with mission and ministry across the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham since being licensed as the Bishop of Sherwood designate in July. I am very much looking forward to being consecrated by Bishop Paul in the service at York Minster and to serve under Archbishop Stephen in the Northern Province. At this time of huge challenge for so many across the country it is a privilege to be called to share the love of Christ and the good news of the Gospel with all.”
The livestream for Sophie’s Consecration service will be available from 11am until 12.30pm (approx.) on York Minster’s website at www.YorkMinster.org/Whats-On
The livestream for Andrew’s Consecration service will be available from 2.30 until 4.00pm on York Minster’s website at www.YorkMinster.org/Whats-On
The Orders of Service for the consecrations will be available for download on the day on the York Minster website.
Evensong Services return to York Minster this week
After a break of more than six months, York Minster’s popular Evensong services return this week on Wednesday 9 September with the first of three world premiere performances of new music specially commissioned for the Minster.
The adult singers of the York Minster Choir will give world first performances of new anthems by three outstanding composers. On Wednesday 9 September, the choir will perform ‘O sing unto the Lord a new song’ by Cornish composer Becky McGlade. Thursday 10 September will mark the first performance of ‘Now cheer our hearts this eventide, Lord Jesus Christ’, composed by Philip Moore, Organ Emeritus of York Minster and Friday 11 September will be the premiere of ‘After this, we will return’ by Cambridge composer, Sarah MacDonald.
Evensong services to the 19 September will be performed by the adult singers of the choir. As well as the new pieces, this week’s Evensong will feature music that is both contemplative and uplifting. The boys and girls of the York Minster Choir will return to sing in the Minster later this month. The daily order of service and music for Evensong is published in the York Minster Services Scheme.
Welcoming the resumption of choral singing, Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster said: “The last six months have been challenging for England’s cathedral choirs, for musicians and for all those who love the atmosphere and music of Evensong. It is exciting that the Minster’s singers and musicians will return to premiere exceptional new music from such renowned choral composers.”
Seating capacity for worship will be greatly reduced as services will be managed in line with Government and Church of England guidance for safe social distancing. A reservation system will be introduced from Sunday 27 September for the most popular Sunday services – Matins at 10am, the Eucharist at 11am and Evensong at 4pm.
Reservations will not be required for Evensong services on weekdays. Evensong has been moved from the Quire to the Nave which can currently accommodate 180 people. Tickets for services are free of charge.
Three newly commissioned anthems to celebrate the return of choral singing at York Minster
World premiere performances of three specially commissioned anthems, will mark the resumption of choral singing at York Minster after a six month break caused by the Coronavirus pandemic – the first break in choral singing at the Minster in 360 years.
The three anthems will be premiered at Evensong performances by the adult singers of the York Minster Choir. On Wednesday 9 September, the choir will perform ‘O sing unto the Lord a new song’ by Cornish composer Becky McGlade. Thursday 10 September will mark the first performance of ‘Now cheer our hearts this eventide, Lord Jesus Christ’, composed by Philip Moore, Organ Emeritus of York Minster. Friday 11 September will be the premiere of ‘After this, we will return’ by Cambridge composer, Sarah MacDonald. The boy and girl choristers will return to their singing in the Minster later this month.
The last sung service in the Minster was on 15 March 2020. Explaining the historical significance of the interruption, Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster said: “The last break in singing in cathedrals was 360 years ago – the period between the execution of Charles I on 30 January 1649 and the Restoration of the Monarchy with Charles II in London on 29 May 1660 – when the Puritans outlawed choral music in worship. The Act of Uniformity in 1662 restored earlier Church of England liturgical practice including choral singing. Singing in the Minster continued throughout both World Wars and even after the catastrophic fire of July 1984 when choral services sung by the York Minster Choir continued in our sister church, St Michael-le-Belfrey. Choral music is at the heart of worship in the Minster: the virus stopped everything.”
Robert continued: “There is a real sense of anticipation and excitement at the Minster. After such a long time without singing, to come back with three remarkable new compositions is both a great honour and a great privilege.”
Composer Becky McGlade said: “Like so many, I am thrilled that choirs will once again be singing in our churches and cathedrals after this unprecedented hiatus. It is exciting that at York Minster there are going to be some new anthems to mark the recommencement of this wonderful tradition. It is a delight to be a part of this. The text of my anthem, taken from Psalm 98, exhorts us to sing a new song to the Lord and to celebrate the marvellous things He has done. It is a timely reminder that however demanding the season, He remains faithful at all times, and I hope to convey in my setting the joy of being able to sing to Him once more.”
Composer Philip Moore said: “News that the Minster Choir will sing once again is joyous indeed. I was therefore honoured and delighted to have been asked by Robert Sharpe to contribute to a series of anthems for alto, tenor and bass. Writing for a three-part choir is an enjoyable challenge, akin perhaps to cooking with only three ingredients. I hope these new musical recipes will mark a significant step in restoring our treasured choirs to their full glory and will give worshippers a taste of eternity.”
Composer Sarah MacDonald said: “The news that we are allowed to sing again has relieved and revived musicians across the country. We need innovative, creative and optimistic ideas to rebuild our wonderful cathedral tradition, and Robert’s invitation to participate in this brilliant initiative was a joy to receive as I’m sure it was for all of the composers. I have sourced Biblical texts for my contribution which speak of loss, return and renewal, not only reflecting what we have been through as a community, but also serving as a metaphor for my own compositional mind set. Fortunately, some of those longed-for fresh ideas reappeared with the knowledge that the piece will be sung live very soon by such a fabulous choir.”
In recent weeks, the 11am congregation has numbered more than 100 and is expected to increase as soon as choral singing resumes. In order to safely maintain the guidelines for social distancing, a reservation system will be introduced from Sunday 27 September for the most popular Sunday services – Matins at 10am, the Eucharist at 11am and Evensong at 4pm.
Patricia Dunlop, Director of Visitor Experience at York Minster said: “Our priority is to enable everyone to keep safe as we return to worship in the Minster and to adhere to the social distancing guidelines currently in force. Covid-19 has affected virtually every aspect of our lives, and this change is just one more adaptation that we have to make in order to enjoy Sunday worship in a safe manner, as we welcome choral music back to the Minster.”
Weekend visitor hours extended at York Minster
Friday and Saturday opening hours at York Minster will be increased by one hour allowing more people to visit the 850 year old medieval gothic cathedral this summer. The new hours will start on Saturday 8 August, the same day that face coverings become compulsory for people visiting churches and a range of other indoor spaces.
The Minster reopened to paying visitors on 11 July with a range of measures in place to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. These include new signage, handwashing stations and a one-way system to keep visitors and staff safe. Entry is by pre-booked online ticket with timed slots to ensure social distancing. The cathedral has been operating at 20 per cent of capacity (a maximum of 500 people per day).
Patricia Dunlop, Director of Visitor Experience said the move was in response to strong public demand for visits to the Minster. Patricia said: “Visitors have come from all over the UK, indicating a strong ‘staycation’ market and some international tourists have also visited contributing to a strong demand for the pre-booked timeslots, most of which have sold out in advance. Opening one hour earlier on Fridays and Saturdays will allow 100 people more to visit safely on each day.”
Saturday also marks the introduction of new Government guidelines requiring face coverings to be worn in churches for worship or for sightseeing. Commenting on the new requirement, Patricia said: “York Minster will require all visitors to wear face coverings during worship or while visiting for sightseeing. Visitors will be asked to bring their own face coverings or visors and will only be given entry to the cathedral if they are wearing them.
“We hope that all visitors will recognise the need to protect themselves and others and comply with Government guidelines. We will ask anyone over the age of 11 who is not wearing a mask to put one on before entering the cathedral. We will, however, be sensitive to anyone who says that they are exempt from wearing a face covering due to a health condition.”
From Saturday 8 August, York Minster’s full visitor opening hours will be:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11.00am until 4.30pm, last entry 3.30pm
Friday and Saturday 10.00am until 4.30pm, last entry 3.30pm
Sunday 12.30pm until 3.30pm, last entry 2.30pm.
Consecrations at York Minster
The Bishop of Doncaster and the Bishop of Sherwood
Monday 21 September
Two new Bishops will be consecrated in two separate services taking place at York Minster on Monday 21 September.
The Revd Canon Sophie Jelley, former Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry in the Diocese of Durham and Canon Missioner at Durham Cathedral, will be consecrated as Bishop of Doncaster in the Diocese of Sheffield. Sophie will be consecrated in the morning by The Archbishop of York, The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, assisted by the Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler and the Bishop of Sheffield, Pete Wilcox.
In the afternoon, the Revd Dr Andrew Emerton, former Dean of St Mellitus College, London, will be consecrated as Bishop of Sherwood in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. Andrew will be consecrated by the Bishop of Durham, the Right Revd Paul Butler, assisted by the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally and the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Paul Williams. The Archbishop of York will preside at both services.
Celebrating the consecrations, Archbishop Stephen said: “I rejoice and I am looking forward to the consecrations of Bishop Sophie and Bishop Andy in York Minster. I invite you to join with me in celebration and in prayer for them and their families, for the Dioceses of Sheffield and Southwell and Nottingham. May God bless these, His servants and friends, as they embark on the next stage of their vocations as Bishops in the church of God.”
Commenting on Sophie’s consecration, The Bishop of Sheffield, the Right Revd Dr Pete Wilcox said:
“I am relieved and excited in equal measure that we now have a firm date for Canon Sophie’s consecration, delayed by the pandemic since 25 March. Sophie has inhabited the role of Bishop-designate to full effect, but it will be such a joy to welcome her fully into her episcopal ministry. I am especially glad that it will enable her to share collegially with me in the ordination of our priests and deacons at the end of September. I am also delighted that this will be Archbishop Stephen’s first consecration at York Minister and I look forward to the occasion immensely.”
Welcoming Andy’s consecration, The Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Right Revd Paul Williams said: “I am very thankful that Archbishop Stephen has confirmed that Andy Emerton will be consecrated Bishop of Sherwood on 21st September and delighted this will take place at York Minster, albeit with understandable restrictions at this present time. We greatly look forward to Andy’s ministry among us as bishop and to the part he will play in growing the Kingdom of God in this part of the East Midlands, alongside many other lay and ordained leaders. One of his first tasks will be to share with me in the ordination of 20 new priests and deacons on his first weekend as bishop.”
Sophie and Andy’s consecration services will take place in the context of the Eucharist and will include readings, prayers, music and a sermon. The services will be held under careful guidelines because of the Coronavirus pandemic with strict limits on the numbers attending. Both services will be live-streamed via You Tube so that friends, family and congregations can experience the services.
A new Cathedral Architect for York Minster
The Chapter of York today announced the appointment of Oliver Caroe, as the new Cathedral Architect – officially known as the Surveyor of the Fabric – for York Minster. Oliver succeeds Andrew Arrol who is retiring after 14 years in the role.
Working closely with the Director of Works and Precinct, the Cathedral Architect is Chapter’s principal professional adviser on all matters relating to the conservation and repair of the cathedral’s fabric and, from time-to-time, provides ad hoc project-based support and advice on the care and development of the Minster itself and its surrounding estate.
Welcoming Oliver’s appointment, the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York said:
“‘I am delighted by Oliver’s appointment and confident he will serve the Minster with distinction, just as Andrew Arrol did before him. Oliver brings imagination, intellectual energy and vast experience to the role of Surveyor of the Fabric. The team at York Minster looks forward to working with him as we embrace the responsibilities, challenges and opportunities of our moment in history.”
Dame Fiona Reynolds, Chair of the Cathedrals Fabric Advisory Commission for England (CFCE) said: “CFCE welcomes the appointment of Oliver Caroe as Surveyor of the Fabric to York Minster, and we thank Andrew Arrol for his 14 years of dedicated service. Oliver brings deep knowledge and understanding of the historic fabric alongside a lively appreciation of the contemporary challenges cathedrals face from his work at St Paul’s and Ripon, and we look forward to working with him in this new role.”
Oliver Caroe is one of the country’s foremost ecclesiastical architects. His work and experience spans many sectors. Architecture runs in Oliver’s veins: his great-grandfather was WD Caroe, who founded Caroe & Partners in 1884 and his grandfather and father both were also renowned conservation architects.
As an accredited specialist in conservation, Oliver has particular expertise in conserving, repairing and improving cathedrals and churches of all ages. His track record is equally strong as a designer of new buildings, from small residential projects to the more complex educational settings of Oxbridge colleges. He was appointed as architect to Ripon Cathedral in 2010, where he has led several significant conservation and repair projects and is currently working on a long-term masterplan. Oliver is also the Surveyor to the Fabric of St Paul’s Cathedral, a role he has held since 2011.
Commenting on his appointment, Oliver said: “The Chapter of York, oversees and cares for some of the most fantastic buildings and spaces on the planet. The cathedral precincts and the Minster stand at the heart of the City of York, proclaiming their welcome to everyone. Since I was a child in short trousers, dragged to cathedrals by my father, I have been awed and excited by these intricate and ingenious structures. Now, as a grown up conservation architect, I am no less thrilled and excited by the wondrous architecture and craft skills.
“Today I am most interested in what cathedrals can do in the 21st century as places of worship, as places where communities and people can meet and as vital and vibrant components of our historic cities.
“Chapter is leading the way in its partnership with the City of York and an emerging neighbourhood plan – which can transform the precincts for the citizens of York.
“Even as society works to plot a course out of the pandemic, even though this is a time of challenge and grieving for many, this is also an exciting time to be invited to join the cathedral as Surveyor. There is much to learn from the craftspeople – the masons and glaziers – the fundraisers, historians and archaeologists. My heart races, and it is a little daunting, but this is also a dream come true for someone who believes in the great good that cathedrals can do. So I much look forward to being of service to such a talented and committed team, and to our new Dean and Archbishop.”
Biographical details
Oliver Caroe, BA (Hons) Dipl Arch Cantab RIBA AABC
Surveyor to the Fabric, York Minster
Director and owner of Caroe Architecture Ltd, Oliver is one of the country’s foremost ecclesiastical architects. His work and experience spans many sectors. Residential projects, pure conservation and major commercial refurbishments are part of his repertoire, with particular emphasis on the sustainability of existing and historic buildings.
He was appointed as architect to Ripon Cathedral in 2010, where he has led several significant projects. These include the design and installation of new Narthex porches, scheduling and specifying a major programme of phased stonework repairs, the recent conservation of the medieval choirstalls, and he is working on a long-term masterplan.
Since 2011 Oliver has also been the Surveyor to the Fabric of St Paul’s Cathedral. In addition to the constant process of cleaning, repair and renewal, he has overseen projects ranging from the re-tanking of the galleries around the Dome, re-presenting the Crypt facilities, introducing new contemporary artwork commissions and working alongside the Collections team to conserve and rediscover the extensive collections, archives and the magnificent Wren Library on the Triforium level.
Oliver’s other major projects include: the conservation of Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds; a major programme of work of repair and renewal for the University Church in Oxford; the creation of an Archives Centre at St John’s College, Cambridge and a conservation programme for G.E. Street’s St Mary Magdalene, Paddington.
Oliver’s relevant experience includes:
Many projects of refurbishment and adaptive reuse of historic buildings
Conservation Management Planning and Estate Masterplanning for Emmanuel College Cambridge, the Nymans Estate and Ripon Cathedral
Major quinquennial inspections and programmes of repair and conservation on Grade 1 listed historic buildings
New and contemporary design in sensitive settings, including visitor facilities for the National Trust Wimpole Estate; Kings Cross Station, Almshouses in Saffron Walden, two buildings for the Scampston Estate, Yorkshire
Commissioning of new artworks and craft, including Bill Viola at St Paul’s Cathedral,new Gargoyles for Ripon Cathedral and new visual art commissions
Design review for the Church Buildings Council and Cambridge City Council Design and Conservation panel
Sustainability of ‘hard to treat’ historic buildings: Founder Member of the Church of England Shrinking the Footprint steering group.
York Minster achieves highest visitor numbers on recent record in 2019
York Minster had its highest visitor numbers on recent record in 2019, according to figures released by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) today (Wednesday 15 July).
The cathedral welcomed 706,484 people to worship in and explore the sacred space last year, up 2% on 2018 and its best visitor numbers on record since it introduced new recording practices in 2011.
The news, which sees the cathedral rise four places to number 53 in ALVA’s annual survey of its UK members’ visitor numbers, comes as the Minster reopened its doors to sightseeing visitors this weekend for the first time since 16 March.
The cathedral has been welcoming visitors for private prayer since 16 June, and reopened for services on Saturday 4 July, following the ease in lockdown measures.
The Right Reverend Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York, said: “Hospitality is at the heart of our life together at York Minster. We were delighted to welcome so many people from nearby and from around the globe in 2019 – our best visitor numbers on recent record.
“Although 2020 will look very different, we’re pleased to have reopened and are beginning to see old and new friends return. There are a thousand reasons to visit York Minster – all of them valid. Those making the journey to this magnificent sacred space will be made most welcome.”
It is thought the bumper visitor numbers in 2019 were due to a combination of the Northern Lights sound and light projection events which took place last October and were seen by 22,500 people, and the completion of the Great East Window in 2018.
The window, which is the largest single expanse of medieval stained glass in the country, and the stonework of the cathedral’s wider East End underwent a decade long conservation and restoration project, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and were unveiled in May 2018.
The Minster is currently open for sightseeing visitors Monday to Saturday 11am to 4pm and Sunday 12.30pm to 2.30pm and has put a number of measures in place to help keep both its staff and visitors safe.
These include limiting the number of people inside by asking sightseeing visitors to pre-book tickets online, a one-way system to allow people to physically distance from one another, hand sanitizer points, additional cleaning measures and staff and clergy wearing face masks and visors to welcome people.
For further details about the cathedral’s opening times, safety measures or to book tickets click HERE
The full list of attractions and their figure are available HERE
Archbishop Elect Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell to take his Crozier as 98th Archbishop of York
Bishop Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell, has today taken up the Braganza Crozier – his staff of office – in a short ceremony at York Minster, following his Confirmation of Election as the 98th Archbishop of York.
Watch below for clips of this historic occasion.
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Pre-ceremony News Release
Bishop Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell, will today take up the historic Braganza Crozier – his staff of office – in a short ceremony at York Minster, following his Confirmation of Election as the 98th Archbishop of York.
Archbishop Elect Stephen’s Confirmation of Election service will be broadcast entirely via video conference due to the Covid-19 restrictions. This is available to watch at: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 11am on 9 July 2020.
The service will include music from York Minster Choir and Manor Church of England Academy, York. In the video resource that follows the service, young people from across the north of England will read a letter written by the medieval religious scholar Alcuin of York. Bishop Stephen will offer his first address as Archbishop of York. Prayers will be offered for the Archbishop, the Diocese of York and the Northern Province of the Church of England, as well as for the wider world in these difficult times.
Following the service, Archbishop Elect Stephen will make a short walk of pilgrimage to the shrine of St Margaret Clitherow. Here, he will be welcomed by the Rt Revd Terence Drainey, Roman Catholic Bishop of Middlesbrough. After a few moments of prayer, Archbishop Elect Stephen will then proceed to the crypt of York Minster where he will pray at the tomb of St William of York.
Archbishop Elect Stephen will move to the Quire of York Minster where he will take up his Crozier in front of a small, socially distanced gathering drawn from his immediate staff representing the Archbishop’s Leadership Team, Bishopthorpe Palace and York Minster.
Commenting on the ceremony, the Rt Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York said: “At a service of Enthronement, it is customary for a new bishop or Archbishop, to knock three times on the West Door with his or her Crozier to request admission. The pandemic has meant that we have to defer Archbishop Elect Stephen’s Enthronement service for a while. So the ceremony today is a simplified and low-key beginning to his ministry
“Once Archbishop Elect Stephen has picked up his Crozier from the High Altar he will move through the Minster to its West End. Here he will knock three times on the inside of the West Door which will then be opened to the world. This reversal of the usual symbolism, is intended to signify the openness of the Church to the world and reflects Archbishop Elect Stephen’s desire to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the communities it serves.”
Archbishop Elect Stephen spoke very positively about opening the doors at York Minster. He said: “The Church is the body of Christ. As such we are being formed in his likeness to be sent out into the world to bring hope, healing and wholeness. I like the symbolism of opening up the doors of the church as we go out and see and be where God is already at work.
“As I take up the role of Archbishop of York, my focus will be on prayer, and I want to begin by praying for the unity of the Church, for all those persecuted, and for the Northern Province of the Church of England. May we be united as the body of Christ, of one mind and purpose to see God’s Kingdom here on Earth.”
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby said: “I am so excited about working with Archbishop Stephen to communicate the good news of Jesus Christ. The next few years are going to be a huge adventure. We will be exploring our way into being a new Church in a new world.
“I’m sad we’re not able to all be together in York Minster to celebrate, yet. But we know that God is present to us at all times through the Holy Spirit. I’ll be praying for Archbishop Stephen as he officially begins his new ministry and as we begin that new adventure.”
Concluding, the Dean of York said: “We look forward to being able to gather more fully to celebrate the beginning of Archbishop Elect Stephen’s ministry in due course. For now, we are happy to welcome Stephen and his family in great love and we pray for him as he prepares for the challenges and the joys that his office will bring.”
To watch the Confirmation of Election service, please click on: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 11am on 9 July 2020.
To watch the video following the Confirmation of Election service, please click on: https://www.churchofengland.org/aby98 from 12pm on 9 July 2020.
Biographical details –Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York Elect
Born in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, in 1958, Stephen Cottrell was educated at Belfairs High School, Leigh-on-Sea, and the Polytechnic of Central London. He found faith as a teenager through the work of youth organisations in his local church. After a brief spell working in the film industry, he began training for ministry at St Stephen’s House, Oxford, in 1981 and was ordained deacon at the age of 26. He later studied for an MA with St Mellitus College.
Serving his curacy in Christ Church and St Paul’s, Forest Hill, south London, in the mid-1980s he was priest-in-charge at St Wilfrid’s, in Parklands, a council estate parish in Chichester from 1988 to 1993. He also served as Assistant Director of Pastoral Studies at Chichester Theological College at the same time.
He then moved to West Yorkshire, as Diocesan Missioner and Bishop’s Chaplain for Evangelism in the Diocese of Wakefield and in 1998 he took up the role of Springboard Missioner and Consultant in Evangelism. During his time in the diocese he adopted Huddersfield Town as his team alongside his beloved Spurs.
In 2001, he was called south to become Canon Pastor of Peterborough Cathedral and three years later was consecrated as Bishop of Reading. He took up his current role as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2010.
Author of more than 20 books including children’s books, he enjoys poetry, music and art. His 2013 book on the artist Stanley Spencer, Christ in the Wilderness, prompted a recent podcast reflection with Russell Brand, discussing the crucifixion and resurrection.
He has undertaken several pilgrimages, including twice walking the Camino to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, as well as pilgrim routes in England including to his future See in York.
A founding member of the Church of England’s College of Evangelists, he chairs a group of bishops with an interest in the media and is one of the authors of the Church of England’s Pilgrim course, a major teaching and discipleship resource. He also chairs the Board of Church Army. Based in Sheffield, but working across the British Isles, Church Army is an organisation committed to evangelism and social justice. He is Bishop Protector for the Society of St Francis.
Stephen was announced as the 98th Archbishop of York on 17 December 2019.
Stephen is married to Rebecca who is a potter. They have three sons.
About St Margaret Clitherow
A Roman Catholic, Margaret Clitherow (1556-1586), lived at a time when being a catholic was considered to be an act of treason. Executed in 1586, she was canonised in October 1970. Her shrine is located in a building in York’s medieval Shambles that used to be Margaret’s family home. For more information about St Margaret and to visit the shrine go to stwilfridsyork.org.uk
About St William of York
Believe to have been born in the late 11th century, William Fitzherbert was twice elected as Archbishop of York (1141 and 1153). He lived through turbulent times navigating religious and political intrigue. On his return to York in 1153 as Archbishop for the second time, the weight of jubilant crowds on the Ouse Bridge caused the structure to collapse into the river. William prayed to God to save the people from drowning and not a single life was lost. William died in 1154, widely believed to have been poisoned. The Miracle at Ouse Bridge and subsequent miraculous events attributed to William even after his death, resulted in his canonisation in 1224. His tomb is in the Crypt at York Minster.
About the Braganza Crozier
The wife of King Charles II, Queen Catherine of Braganza (1638-1705), was the daughter of King John IV who in 1640, became the first king of Portugal from the House of Braganza. Catherine presented the crozier to James Smith, Vicar Apostolic of the Northern District on his consecration as Bishop of Calliopolis (the old name for what is now known as Gallipolli in Turkey) in the Chapel of Somerset House on 13 May 1688. The Braganza Crozier is a silver pastoral staff made in four sections (unscrews) with special case. The design is crook leaf and dot with the main crook decorated with leaves and the line of dots (or small bells) on the outside edge terminates with a figure of Blessed Virgin and the Infant Jesus. Decorative detail includes the Coat of Arms of Portugal with a crown (Queen Catherine’s), five small shield and a Bishop’s hat with seven tassels.
York Minster reopens for public worship and sightseeing
York Minster will reopen for public worship on Saturday (4 July) and for sightseeing visits on Saturday 11 July.
The first public service to be held at the cathedral since it closed on 16 March will be Evening Prayer at 5.30pm on Saturday, followed by services of Morning Prayer (10am), Holy Communion (11am) and Evening Prayer (4pm) on Sunday (5 July).
In line with government and Church of England guidance, a number of measures have been put in place to help keep visitors and staff safe.
These include limiting the number of people allowed inside, reduced seating and a one-way system to allow people to physically distance from one another, hand sanitizer points, additional cleaning measures and staff and clergy wearing face masks and visors to welcome visitors. More information on the safety measures that have been put in place here.
Worshippers attending public services will also be asked to leave their name and contact details to assist with the NHS Test and Trace programme, in line with government guidance.
Initially, services will be simpler and shorter. Changes include no congregational singing or sharing of the Peace and the suspension of the Common Cup during Holy Communion will continue. There will also be no plate collection at the end of services, although people are encouraged to make a donation using contactless donation points inside the cathedral.
The Dean of York, the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost said: “We are delighted to open our doors again to welcome people for public worship and to explore this magnificent sacred space.
“Over the last few weeks we have welcomed many for individual prayer, but to gather again for worship – with relevant physical distancing measures in place – will be a huge encouragement for many.”
The regular service pattern at the cathedral from Tuesday 7 July will be Monday to Saturday Morning Prayer (7.30am), Holy Communion (7.50am) and Evening Prayer (5.30pm) and Sundays Morning Prayer (10am), Holy Communion (11am) and Evening Prayer (4pm).
While the cathedral has been closed its clergy have taken worship online, and will continue to produce a pre-recorded Evensong service broadcast at 4pm each Sunday via its website and social media channels for those who are unable to immediately return to the building for worship.
People have been able to visit the cathedral for individual prayer since Tuesday 16 June, and from Saturday 11 July the Minster will extend its opening hours for this and welcome its first sightseeing visitors since March.
General visiting hours will be Monday to Saturday 11am to 4pm, and Sunday 12.20pm to 2.30pm, and visitors coming for sightseeing will need to pre-book a timed arrival slot here, with tickets now available for visits from 11 – 31 July 2020.
Parts of the cathedral will initially remain closed including the Central Tower and Undercroft Museum and there will be no guided tours.
The Minster has been approved for the UK-wide ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard, launched this week by national tourism organisations for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, which demonstrates it is adhering to the respective Government and public health guidance. You can learn about the measures we’ve put in place to help keep everyone safe when they visit here.
Dean’s Park, the popular green space which runs along the north side of the cathedral, is already open daily from 10am and 6pm and the Minster Shops inside the cathedral and at Minster Gates are also open daily in line with general visiting times.
York Minster prepares to reopen for individual prayer
York Minster is preparing to welcome people back for individual prayer from Tuesday 16 June, following the government announcement that places of worship can reopen for this form of worship.
It will be the first time since the Minster closed its doors on 16 March in response to the Coronavirus pandemic that people have been able to visit the sacred space, light a candle, reflect and pray.
The cathedral will initially be open from 4.30pm – 6.30pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 2.30pm – 4.30pm on Sundays, and a number of measures are being put in place to help keep people safe during their visit.
These include limiting the number of people allowed inside at any one time, signage and reduced seating to allow people to socially distance from one another, a new one-way system, hand sanitizer points and additional cleaning measures.
The Dean of York, the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost said: “I am delighted that we are able to take this next small but significant step towards seeing the Minster fully re-opened by initially opening for individual prayer.
“All of us who live, work and pray here, look forward to the doors being fully opened in the days ahead.”
The cathedral is initially reopening with reduced hours to allow a phased return of its staff and to allow its new arrangements to be tested and adjusted before extending its hours.
Only the main Nave area of the cathedral will be open for individual prayer, with a one-way system and signage encouraging social distancing, facilitated by staff equipped with PPE. A member of York Minster’s clergy will be available each day for anyone in need of pastoral support and care.
Due to major work being done to the cathedral’s Grand Organ, the Nave has been temporarily arranged so seating within the cathedral faces the Great West Window, which contains the Heart of Yorkshire, so that its symbol and message of love can provide a focus for people’s prayers and devotions.
The wider Minster will remained closed for public worship, including services, and for sightseeing, in line with current government guidance. Dean’s Park, the green space at the north side of the cathedral, has already re-opened on a daily basis from 10am to 6pm.
While the Minster has been closed it has moved worship online, and this will continue with a new, pre-recorded Sunday Evensong service broadcast each week at 4pm via the cathedral’s Facebook and YouTube channels and on its website.
For further information, visit our What’s On page, Facebook page: facebook.com/YorkMinsterOfficial, or YouTube channe;: youtube.com/YorkMinsterOfficial.
Election of Bishop Stephen Cottrell as the 98th Archbishop of York
Election of Bishop Stephen Cottrell as the 98th Archbishop of York, Thursday 11 June 2020
Bishop Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell was today formally ‘Elected’ by York Minster’s College of Canons to be the 98th Archbishop of York. The election endorses the Queen’s nomination of Bishop Stephen as the new Archbishop, in a ceremony that has been part of the statutory process for appointing senior bishops in the Church of England since 1533.
The Election ceremony normally takes place in York Minster’s Chapter House with all of the Minster’s Canons present in person, but it was held today via video conference to comply with the Coronavirus restrictions.
As required by the 1533 Appointment of Bishops Act, the proclamation below, issued by the Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York, as the President of the Minster’s College of Canons, was published at the end of the Election ceremony to announce the result:
“In the name of the College of Canons We, Jonathan Hugh Frost, being the Dean of the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York and President of the College of Canons of the said Cathedral Church,
“Being required publicly to notify and declare that the See of the Archbishopric of York having been for some time vacant by the resignation of the Most Reverend John Tucker Mugabi Sentamu last Archbishop thereof,
“We the said College of Canons of this Cathedral Church (in pursuance of and proceeding according to the tenor of a Writ of Congé D’Élire and Letter Recommendatory from Her Sacred Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second to Us directed and delivered) have this day Elected the Right Reverend Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell Bishop of Chelmsford to be our Archbishop and Pastor in this Archiepiscopal See of York whom God long preserve.
Read in the Deanery of the Cathedral Church of York aforesaid the eleventh day of June in the Year of Our Lord Two Thousand and Twenty, By us, Dean of York.”
Bishop Stephen’s appointment as Archbishop will be completed in the Confirmation of Election ceremony to be held at 11.00am on Thursday 9 July 2020, in a service that will be broadcast entirely via video conference due to the Coronavirus restrictions. The service will be available on the Church of England website at www.churchofengland.org.
Arrangements for Bishop Stephen’s enthronement service at York Minster will be announced later in the year.
Prayer on the Election of the Archbishop of York
Generous God, we give you thanks:
you have heard our prayer,
guided your people
and raised up Stephen
to serve as the next Archbishop of York.
By your Holy Spirit, grant to him
good counsel, holy insight and
joy in the gospel,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Biographical details – Bishop Stephen Cottrell
Born in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, in 1958, Stephen Cottrell was educated at Belfairs High School, Leigh-on-Sea, and the Polytechnic of Central London. He found faith as a teenager through the work of youth organisations in his local church. After a brief spell working in the film industry, he began training for ministry at St Stephen’s House, Oxford, in 1981 and was ordained deacon at the age of 26. He later studied for an MA with St Mellitus College.
Serving his curacy in Christ Church and St Paul’s, Forest Hill, south London, in the mid-1980s he was priest-in-charge at St Wilfrid’s, in Parklands, a council estate parish in Chichester from 1988 to 1993. He also served as Assistant Director of Pastoral Studies at Chichester Theological College at the same time.
He then moved to West Yorkshire, as Diocesan Missioner and Bishop’s Chaplain for Evangelism in the Diocese of Wakefield and in 1998 he took up the role of Springboard Missioner and Consultant in Evangelism. During his time in the diocese he adopted Huddersfield Town as his team alongside his beloved Spurs.
In 2001, he was called south to become Canon Pastor of Peterborough Cathedral and three years later was consecrated as Bishop of Reading. He took up his current role as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2010.
Author of more than 20 books including children’s books, he enjoys poetry, music and art. His 2013 book on the artist Stanley Spencer, Christ in the Wilderness, prompted a recent podcast reflection with Russell Brand, discussing the crucifixion and resurrection.
He has undertaken several pilgrimages, including twice walking the Camino to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, as well as pilgrim routes in England including to his future See in York.
A founding member of the Church of England’s College of Evangelists, he chairs a group of bishops with an interest in the media and is one of the authors of the Church of England’s Pilgrim course, a major teaching and discipleship resource. He also chairs the Board of Church Army. Based in Sheffield, but working across the British Isles, Church Army is an organisation committed to evangelism and social justice. He is Bishop Protector for the Society of St Francis.
Stephen is married to Rebecca who is a potter. They have three sons.
Archbishop lays down his crozier
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