It was announced recently at Burnley Faith Centre that Rev. Dr Joe Kennedy will be the next Bishop of Burnley.
The announcement took place in front of guests including civic, community and faith leaders and members of Bishop Philip’s Vision and Strategy Team.
Bishop Philip said: “I am delighted to welcome Rev. Dr Joe Kennedy as our next Bishop of Burnley.
“He has overseen a period of significant congregational growth in his current Parish and loves to see lives changed by the Gospel.
“The advisory panel that met to interview candidates for the post was an extremely diverse one in which all traditions were well represented.
“The unity of mind that this group reached was extraordinary and it was incredibly beautiful to discern together a deep sense that Joe was the one whom God was calling.”
Joe responded: “In so many communities across Lancashire, we can see Christians sharing the Gospel with confidence and enabling human flourishing through social action.
“My hope is to offer you a ministry which is confident in God, rooted in prayer, focused on pastoral care and on mission; and which offers a focus for unity across the Diocese.”
Bishop Jill and Bishop Phillip with newly appointed Bishop Joe.