Hundreds of Berkshire well-wishers joined Bishop Mary as she delivered her first sermon as Bishop of Reading today.
The welcome service, held at Reading Minster, was attended by civic guests including the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire Andrew Try, High Sheriff of Berkshire Alexander Barfield, clergy and well-wishers. Among the congregation were children from Mortimer St Mary’s school.
During the service, Bishop Mary was presented with symbols of her ministry before making her oath of canonical obedience.
In her sermon Bishop Mary referred to the colourful cope which she wears when taking part in church services. She said the panels of colour were a picture of hope which was inspired by a passage read at the service by the Lord Lieutenant. She added: “There is an audacity of hope… we, the church, must reclaim the language of hope… our calling is to be ambassadors of this hope, to declare to people who I believe are desperate to hear it that love is making all things new.”
Bishop Mary also spoke about the importance of interfaith groups in the area: “Let’s make space to attend to one another’s stories and to be open and to be changed by what we hear. Let’s model for a society that is all to often polarised how we can find common ground and stand upon it despite difference.”
Representatives from the Berkshire community welcomed Bishop Mary including the High Sheriff, Mortimer St Mary's School and Reading Inter-faith Community. Andrew said: “We know you will use this voice to advocate for those who are poor and marginalised in our community… for this we are grateful. These are big responsibilities indeed but please know our whole community is here to support you.”
Prayers were led by young people from All Saints Dedworth.
Find out more about Bishop Mary and see a gallery of photos from the service.