Happy Ordination Anniversary to Bishop John! - January 23

During the "Bishop's Report" at the January 19, 2022  online via Zoom meeting of Diocesan Council, the Right Reverend John Stephens remarked that the first anniversary of his Consecration as bishop would take place in just a few days on January 23. Following the Consecration Eurcharist celebrated at Christ Church Cathedral, viewed online by thousands around the world he became Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of New Westminster and spent the next six weeks working closely with then-diocesan bishop, the Most Reverend Melissa Skelton up until her retirement on February 28, 2021. Bishop John officially became 'the Diocesan' on March 1.

He reflected on what it has been like to be a bishop during this time of pandemic. A number of bishops have been elected and installed during Covidtide, and Bishop John revealed that they refer to themselves sardonically as"Plague Bishops".  Although he is pleased with what has been accomplished during these many months despite the restrictions on gathering, mission and ministry he admitted that "it is difficult to get a detailed assessment of the overall state of parishes."

Regardless, Bishop John stated numerous times that he is optimistic for the future and continues to be "delighted" with the receptions that he experiences during parish visitations.

Bishop John will be visiting the Parish of St. Agnes, North Vancouver on his first anniversary, January 23 for the celebration of their patronal day. The Commemoration of St. Agnes, January 21.

Many blessings to you Bishop John Stephens on this the first of many anniversaries.

Here is a link to the coverage of the 2021 Consecration Eucharist on the news pages of this website.