A new Bishop of Penrith for our Diocese

On Friday 15 July the Revd Canon Robert Saner-Haigh was consecrated as Bishop of Penrith in York Minster, along with the Revd Canon Arun Arora as Bishop of Kirkstall. I attended the service along with many other clergy and lay ministers from our diocese, to offer our support and prayers for Bishop Rob. It was a joyful occasion, presided over by Archbishop Stephen Cottrell, and supported by the cathedral choir and a modern worship group.

Bishops have a particular calling to be pastors of the people. This is why at an important point in the service, Bishop Rob was presented with a crozier (a shepherd’s staff), with a handle fashioned from the horn of a Herdwick sheep. It is a symbol of the bishop’s role in leading the church, caring for it, and setting an example to be followed. As many of the farmers and shepherds in this part of the world know, pastoring is not easy or straightforward. The shepherd’s staff is used as much to ward off danger as to steer onto good and fruitful paths.

In the church, we are called to share with the Bishop in the pastoral task. We take on the responsibility for looking out for those around us in the local area, and extending kindness to friends and strangers alike. Sometimes it’s just a kind word or gesture that is needed. At other times more is demanded. But all of us have someone that we can help and encourage along the way.

We wish every blessing upon Bishop Rob as he begins his new role as Bishop of Penrith. And we hope that he may be able to visit us here in the Western Dales at some point soon in the future!