Consecration of the new Bishop of Burnley in world-famous cathedral

Hundreds of people, including leading figures from Lancashire, attended the consecration service for the Bishop of Burnley.

The new bishop attended the ancient ceremony at York Cathedral on Friday, led by the Archbishop of York, the Most Reverend and Honourable Stephen Cottrell.

The Rev. Dr. Joe Kennedy is now the 12th Bishop of Burnley and will work alongside the Diocesan Bishop, the Rev. Philp North, Bishop of Blackburn, and the Rev. Dr. Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster.

The Archbishop was supported by more than 20 bishops from across the Church of England and the sermon was delivered by the Rev. Canon Dr. Michael Leyden, Dean of Emmanuel Theological College.

Also assisting the Archbishop at the ordination in her role as liturgical deacon was Rev. Sarah Gill, Vicar of St. Stephen’s and St. James’ in Blackburn and Advisor to the Bishop on UKME Affairs.

Archbishop Stephen said: “Today it has been my great joy and honour to ordain Joe Kennedy as the next Bishop of Burnley, who will serve the wonderful Diocese of Blackburn as a pastor, teacher and evangelist.

“I knew Joe 20 years ago when I was Bishop of Reading. I am delighted that our paths have crossed again and I pray that Joe’s ministry will be richly blessed, as will the Diocese of Blackburn.”

Joe’s wife Emily and their children David and Mary, other members of their family, as well as friends and former parishioners of the new bishop and other colleagues from his “sending diocese” of Chester attended the ceremony.

The service itself featured a number of history-making flourishes, from the opening procession of clergy to the oath of canonical obedience and declarations, all culminating in the emotional moment for the new Bishop of Burnley when the Archbishop laid hands on him surrounded by his fellow bishops during the ordination prayer.

Two close friends of the new bishop, Gabrielle Higgins and Oliver Critchley, also read from the Old and New Testaments.

Dignitaries travelling to York included Helen Bingley, High Sheriff of Lancashire; Alf Clemson, Deputy Leader of Lancashire County Council; David Hodge KC, Diocesan Chancellor; Charles Hadcock, Deputy Lord Lieutenant; Shah Hussain, Mayor of Burnley, and Cosima Towneley, County Councillor for Burnley.