A Choral Evensong service of thanksgiving and farewell for Bishop Hugh and Lizzie Nelson was held at Truro Cathedral over the weekend.

The service, which featured singing by the choir, saw Bishop Hugh officially lay down the pastoral staff of the Bishop of St Germans on the cathedral’s High Altar having now become the Bishop of Worcester.

Welcomed by the Dean of Truro, Father Simon Robinson, the service was led by Canon Sue Wallace with readings by Ruth Trinick, Bishop Hugh’s PA, and Dorie Nelson, his daughter. Bishop David led prayers. Bishop Hugh preaching the sermon. He and Lizzie were presented with gifts at the end of the service with Hugh receiving a personal staff from the people of Cornwall.

Speaking afterwards, Bishop Hugh said: “Everything I know about being a bishop I have learnt in and from the people, churches and communities of Cornwall. You have shaped my faith, my ministry and who I am, and I will always be grateful. Thank you especially for the wonderful gifts, my new pastoral staff and the astonishingly generous garden voucher. I love gardening, and your generosity will buy me a new greenhouse – I will remember you all whenever I’m in it. Thank you!”

Lizzie Nelson added: “Thank you all from me too for the beautiful flowers and print of Polly Joke. More than that, a huge thank you, especially to clergy spouses and partners. Seeing the love, support and encouragement that you give one another, and that you’ve welcomed me (and now Helen too) into, has been one of the best gifts of being here in Cornwall. Thank you for your friendship these past five years, the fun we’ve had, and the joy of hanging out with people who just ‘get it’.”

 

 

There is still one more opportunity to say goodbye and that is on Christmas Eve in Truro Cathedral.

On December 24, Bishop Hugh will join in at the service of Nine Lessons and Carols in Truro Cathedral reading the opening of John’s gospel. This service will mark Bishop Hugh’s last day in the diocese. Everyone is invited to attend. The service starts at 7pm.

Then on January 17 at 2pm, a new year will ring in a new start, with Bishop Hugh’s installation service at Worcester Cathedral. Bishop Hugh would love to see as many people as possible attending. Clergy wishing to robe should contact cball@cofe-worcester.org.uk for instructions.