The former Bishop of Birkenhead, the Rt Revd Ronald Brown, has died aged 92 after a long period of ill health due to kidney failure.
Bishop Ron was Bishop of Birkenhead from 1974-92.
The funeral will take place at 11:00am in Chester Cathedral on Friday 28 June. Members of the Diocese and Cathedral who have known Bishop Ron and who would like to attend are most welcome. Please arrive and be seated in the Quire by 10:45am. Entry is via the South Transept door. The Cathedral service will be followed by a Committal at Blacon Crematorium when only members of the immediate family will be present.
The former Bishop of Chester, the Rt Revd Michael Baughen, writing in the CDN in August 1992 ahead of Bishop Ron's retirement in the September of that year, paid tribute to him. He wrote: "His sensitivity as a colleague has been very special. He can so often see underneath one's outward countenance and empathise with burdens and responsibilities. He has also on many occasions thought further about an idea that may not have seemed a good one to him at first and come back to say that he thinks that is the right way after all. So many of you reading this CDN will have your own memories, appreciation and special praises for what this very special servant of God has meant to you across the years."
In an interview published in the CDN in September 1992, Bishop Ron remarked on his long ministry as Bishop of Birkenhead. When asked about his thoughts on becoming a bishop, he said: "Astonishment is not too strong a word - then apprehension and then acceptance of God's call. I hope the job would be as satisfying and enjoyable as being a parish priest... I have had great pleasure and satisfaction in being a bishop."
Later in the interview, he remarked on the state of the Church. He said: "The great fact is that people need God: there is a gap in every life which only God can fill. We need to witness to the joy and satisfaction that comes from knowing God in Jesus Christ."
Read the full article from Bishop Michael Baughen, published in August 1992
Read the full interview with Bishop Ron, published in September 1992
