Many thanks to photographer Derek Simpkins for these photos taken during Bishop John Stephens' visit to St. Philip, Dunbar. Bishop Stephens was rector of the westside parish for close to 15 years, concluding his ministry there when he was appointed Rector of St. John's, Shaughnessy in 2016. In the early part of his homily, the bishop reflected on how it felt to be back in the pulpit from which he had preached for so many years. He also reminded the congregation that he had spent parts of his childhood as a Sunday Schooler at St. Philip's and how the Sunday School teacher the late Pat Robertson had been quite taken aback when he was appointed rector. Now that she is no longer with us, Bishop John wondered how she feels about him being the bishop of the diocese.
The Eucharistic Prayer
In the top scroll we see Bishop Stephens with his mum, Thelma Stephens who is visiting from Ireland; processing in during the Opening Hymn, Gathering the Community from the chancel steps and offering the Episcopal Blessing. Below you will find a Facebook livestream archive of the liturgy.
