Bishop makes first CI trip

Monday 13 February 2023

Guernsey's new Bishop is making his first official visit to the island including trips to local churches, schools, and charity and community groups supported by the Church of England.

The Right Reverend Stephen Lake, became Bishop of Salisbury in April 2022. Later that year - on 15 November, the Bishop of Salisbury became Bishop for the Channel Islands, after the Order in Council transferring the attachment of the Bailiwick of Guernsey from the Diocese of Winchester to the Diocese of Salisbury was registered in the Royal Court.

The Bishop will be baptising and confirming some members of his congregation while here as well as holding private meetings with clergy and others during his two day trip. 

The Dean of Guernsey, the Very Reverend Tim Barker, said it will be a busy and memorable visit.

"I am delighted that the Bishop of Salisbury will be making his first official visit to Guernsey, and that he will be confirming a dozen people on Monday evening. 

"The Bishop visited Guernsey privately last August, and came with his senior staff team for a residential meeting last October. 

"Although he will not be able to visit Alderney and Sark on this occasion, I very much hope that we will be able to welcome him to those islands before too long." 

At St Pierre du Bois for a Confirmation rehearsal. Looking forward to welcoming @bishopsarum tomorrow on his first official visit to @guernseydeanery @DioSalisbury pic.twitter.com/TmnWZGlCBH

— Tim Barker (@TimBarker10) February 12, 2023

Today, the Bishop’s visit includes meeting people at Holy Trinity church, Guernsey Welfare Service, Guernsey Caring for Ex-offenders and the Princess Elizabeth Hospital before he has lunch with the Deputy Bailiff and senior lay officers of the Deanery of Guernsey.

This evening, there will be a service of Baptism and Confirmation at St Peter's church.

Tomorrow he will be visiting St Martin’s Primary School.

Pictured top (l-r): The Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey, The Dean of Guernsey, The Bishop of Salisbury, The Dean of Jersey, The Lieutenant Governor of Jersey.