New Bishop of Manchester enthroned

The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Rev. David Walker

The new Bishop of Manchester, the Right Reverend David Walker has been enthroned as the 12th Bishop of Manchester at a service held on Saturday 30 November.

The service, which was held at Manchester Cathedral, fell on St Andrew's day. A day that also marked 13 years to the day since Reverend Walker was consecrated Bishop of Dudley.

During the service, the new Bishop, with his staff, knocked on the cathedral door three times to seek entry to the service. At the service, hundreds of clergy and parishioners from across the Diocese of Manchester welcomed him as well as offering their support and friendship as he takes on his new role.

The Diocese of Manchester covers many areas in Greater Manchester including Rochdale and has over 33,000 regular worshipers.

Speaking about his installation, Bishop David Walker said: “I am honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of being the twelfth Bishop of Manchester. My wife Sue and I have come to this diocese in response to a callfrom God, and it is humbling for me to return to my home city as Bishop.

“I hope the service has expressed the joy and anticipation that we feel as a Church as we begin the next stage of our journey together. I am greatly looking forward to serving the wider community of Greater Manchester.”

Born in Mossley and educated at Manchester Grammar School, Bishop David is returning to his home city to be leader of the Anglican Church across Greater Manchester.

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said: “Bishop David’s return to his home city of Manchester is fantastic news for the city. David brings with him a wealth of experience in urban ministry, and a commitment to work with the diocese and the whole community for the welfare of all of its citizens, especially for those who are vulnerable or marginalised.

“David’s energy, creativity, humour and down-to-earth Franciscan spirituality will be a blessing to us all in the Province of York”.

The service was the first to take place inside Manchester Cathedral since it closed for extensive building work last April. It was also relayed live on the big screen in Exchange Square and streamed live on the internet.

The Dean of Manchester Cathedral, The Very Revd Rogers Govender said: “It is a great joy to welcome Bishop David Walker as Bishop of Manchester.