The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, is making a missionary visit to Chester diocese later this month, from 20-23 June.
He aims to share in and encourage the mission of the church, the work that churches, schools, and chaplaincies are doing to show the love of God and to make him known to the 1.5 million people of our diocese who have no connection with church.
The Archbishop will participate in a diverse range of activities:
Rural Forest Church in Bunbury: He will connect with families and children in this rural setting.
Community Breakfast in Macclesfield: Engaging with the local community over breakfast.
Conversations with Waterway Residents: Speaking with people living along our waterways.
School Visits: Interacting with primary and secondary schools in Cheshire and Wirral.
Economic Regeneration in Wirral: Spending time with Paul Satoor, Chief Executive of Wirral Council, to explore economic revitalization in Birkenhead. He will also learn how local churches contribute to transforming the area.
Wirral Met FE College: Engaging with students who are developing life skills that can positively impact their communities.
Additionally, there are two public events:
Breakfast at St Mary’s Ashton upon Mersey: Here, the Archbishop will encourage churches to consider why and how they can form new worshipping communities. The focus is on reaching out more broadly and creatively to the people in their vicinity. Mark Powley, the Archbishop's Missional Enabler for the North, will join him. Mark is at the forefront of Faith in the North, the Archbishop’s vision for planting more churches and nurturing leaders. Book your place here
Evening with the Archbishop at St Mary’s Nantwich: This event is open to all, especially unchurched individuals. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear the Archbishop explain Christian beliefs and address questions. You can book a place for this event.
His visit will end as he preaches at the Cathedral on Sunday morning, 23 June, another chance to share in the mission of the church as it is lived out every Sunday, in every part of the diocese. Book your place here
In the video below, The Archbishop explains how he's looking forward to his visit to the Diocese of Chester.