The Archbishop of York’s Missionary Journey to Wakefield

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, visited Wakefield, part of the Anglican Diocese of Leeds, on Thursday 25 January.

The day began at the Cathedral, where Archbishop Stephen joined the discussions at the monthly breakfast meeting for Wakefield’s business and community leaders, hosted by The Rt Revd Tony Robinson.  

Bishop Tony said. “Everyone was uplifted and encouraged by meeting with Archbishop Stephen. We spent a very varied day in Wakefield, meeting with people from across the district, including business and community leaders, those in our prisons, and with people exploring faith and discipleship.” 

Following the breakfast meeting, Archbishop Stephen and Bishop Tony were welcomed to HMP Wakefield by Ian Blakeman, the Deputy Governor there. They had been invited to preach and preside at a Eucharist service for the Conversion of St Paul.

After lunch at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park with Deputy Director Kevin Rodd, Archbishop Stephen and Bishop Tony visited HMP New Hall Prison and Young Offender Institution and helped in supporting in group-led conversations.

Back at Wakefield Cathedral, the Archbishop finished the day by speaking on the topic of vocation at a Follow Me event, one of four sessions hosted by Bishop Tony for lay people in the Wakefield Area to encourage them in their discipleship. The session started with Choral Evensong at 6.30pm, followed by a simple supper, talks and discussions. This series of sessions ends with a Quiet Day on 9 March with the Rt Revd John Pritchard.

Archbishop Stephen Cottrell said, “Having previously worked as the Diocesan Missioner and Bishop’s Chaplain for Evangelism in what was then the Diocese of Wakefield, this part of the country holds many fond memories for me. It’s been wonderful to be back to this place, to hear and see the hope that the present holds for this area. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with local people from across the social boundaries, each with their own story and experiences.” 

Photos of the day can be found on Archbishop Stephen’s Flickr.