This year’s Chrism Eucharist has taken place at Ripon Cathedral with clergy and lay ministers renewing their vows in a service that included the blessing of holy oils.
Bishop Nick presided over the Maundy Thursday ceremony at which he thanked those present for their staunch commitment during the two years of the pandemic.
“Thank you for your ministry. Thank you for your faithfulness and the courage with which you exercise it.
“We are all in this together,” Bishop Nick said.
Acknowledging that many felt as if they were “limping towards the sunrise” after a time of closed churches and social restrictions, Bishop Nick said how this was the first time since the start of the pandemic that everyone was able to meet together in person for the annual Chrism service and that it was a moving experience.
“It’s been a long haul and how do we lead and minister when the world falls apart?
“Well, we are not ordained for the times when it’s just nice and to keep the ball rolling in the context of ordinary life.
“But we know that the spirit of God has anointed us to be bearers of good news and to raise people’s eyes.”