Archbishop of York to visit Rochdale

Archbishop Stephen Cottrell

The Archbishop of York will be welcomed to Rochdale next week to visit community services and churches in the area.

This missionary visit is an opportunity for the Archbishop meet with local people and leaders, giving thanks for the work that they are doing in their communities.

Hosted by the Right Revd. Prof. David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, the trip will include stops that showcase the unique ways that churches are evolving to meet the needs of their communities.

One such example is Nelson Street church in the centre of Rochdale, located in a building has a long history as a Temperance Hall, a dance hall, a nightclub and a restaurant.

Archbishop Stephen will spend the first day in Rochdale, visiting Rochdale foodbank, stopping at Nelson Street Church, meeting students at Rochdale Sixth Form College before ending the day at Rochdale AFC.

The missionary visit will also take the Archbishop to Salford, Bury, Manchester and Rossendale.

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell said: “I’m really looking forward to visiting the Diocese of Manchester and for the opportunity to meet, encourage and thank people for the service they give in their churches and communities. My prayer is that God will enable and empower us to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others so they might encounter him themselves and know the unconditional love he has for them.”

Bishop David said: “I am delighted that Archbishop Stephen is coming to Manchester Diocese. His visit will be a great encouragement for our churches, and communities, as we seek to fulfil our calling to grow the church, nurture Christians, and serve the places and people where God has set us.

“I know that he will also take back with him the fruits of his conversations with the wide range of church and society groups with whom he will be meeting.”