News
Celebrating Rural Life
Over 400 people gathered to celebrate a decade of rural life and ministry, with guests from farming, tourism and conservation, part of the ten year anniversary of the Diocese of Leeds.
May 13, 2024
Over 400 people gathered in the cathedral on Sunday as we celebrated a decade of rural life and ministry, with guests from areas including farming, tourism and conservation.
‘Rivers of Life’ was part of the ten year anniversary of the creation of one of the largest diocese (area of ministry) in the Church of England, the Diocese of Leeds.
The service was hosted by Dean John and Bishop Anna, the Bishop of Ripon. In welcoming those that attended they said: ‘Like the streams and rivers that flow freely and generously in the Dales and elsewhere, God’s generous Spirit is seen to bring life, fellowship and hope in all circumstances.’
In his sermon, Dean John joked that though visitors to Yorkshire may have the impression it’s perfect – people in rural communities and churches knew only to well the challenges that existed. He praised the resilience of so many, calling on people to have confidence in the God who pours out his spirit to sustain life and draw people together in unity.
The service was attended by the Deputy Lord Lieutenants of both North and West Yorkshire, Mr Simon Theakston and Mr C Richard Jackson MBE, representing His Majesty the King.
The Boys’ Choir, lay clerks and choral scholars of the cathedral were delighted to be joined by the Chapel Choir of Hall School, London, seen in here during rehearsals ahead of the service.
