On Sunday, 15th September, despite the rainy skies, hearts were full as a Service of Thanksgiving was held for the ministry of the Right Reverend Anne Hollinghurst, as she now prepares to take up her post as Principal of the Queens Foundation. The atmosphere inside St.Philips, Birmingham Catherdral was warm and welcoming, with an undeniable air of celebration for Bishop Anne, Bishop of Aston. This ticketed event, a testament to the popularity of the occasion, was also live-streamed for those who could not attend in person but wished to be part of this significant moment.
The Very Reverend Matt Thompson, Dean, offered a heartfelt welcome. Then, all eyes turned towards the back of the church as the procession of ministers, including Bishop Anne, followed closely by Bishop Michael, made their way to the front of the nave. Bishop Anne’s presence was both solemn and joyous, a fitting reflection of her nine years of dedicated service. The choir's rendition of the Gloria lifted the spirits even higher, filling the church with praise.
Bishop Anne then took to the pulpit for her final sermon as Bishop of Aston. Her message, rich in metaphor, spoke of pilgrimage—a journey not only of the body but also of the soul. To illustrate, she brought with her a rucksack, reflecting on the "…Rucksack of Light and Hope." As she preached, she invited the congregation to imagine each pilgrim adding an item to this rucksack as it travelled the path of life. This symbolic act beautifully illustrated her message of shared burdens and collective hope.
In her reflections, Bishop Anne spoke of her next steps as she moves on to the Queen's Foundation. She expressed her deep affection for the Church of England Birmingham, recounting the friendships and "…good companions" she has made during her ministry. The metaphor of the rucksack became a poignant reminder of the love, hope, and light she had shared with so many.
"Be sure my love and prayers still go on for all of you," she said, her voice filled with emotion, leaving a lasting impression on the congregation.
The service continued with a powerful affirmation of faith, followed by prayers of intercession led by a diverse group of voices, each representing a different facet of the community. Among them were Charitas Cho, Deanery Support Officer for Yardley and Solihull; The Right Reverend David Evans, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham; The Reverend Sheri Gidney, Warden of Readers; Luke Allen, representative of the Bishop's Youth Synod; The Reverend Canon Dele Sotonwa, Chair of the Birmingham Racial Justice Board; and Andy Winmill, Director of Mission Support. Together, they lifted up prayers of thanksgiving and hope, uniting the congregation with shared purpose.
As the bread was broken and communion was distributed, the sense of quiet reflection, echoed the deep connection the congregation felt to Bishop Anne.
The service concluded with words of thanks from civic leaders and fellow clergy. The Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands gave heartfelt thanks to Bishop Anne, and in particular choosing to honour her with a salute.
On this special occasion, Dr. Jan Smart presented a beautiful bouquet and gift on behalf of the diocese, to Bishop Anne, as a thoughtful and heartfelt gesture. Warmest wishes were given by Mrs. Dawn Brathwaite, a member of General Synod, spoke on behalf of the laity, offering a simple but powerful blessing -
"As you have blessed many, may you always be blessed."
It was a day of deep gratitude, as Bishop Anne's ministry was celebrated by all who had been touched by her light and hope. The rain outside seemed to mirror the bittersweet farewell, but within the church, the love and joy shared in her honour ensured her legacy would carry on for many years to come.
List of tributes:
The Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Derek Anderson CBE
The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Clir Ken Wood
The High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Mr Douglas Wright MBE DL
Bishop Mike Royal, General Secretary of Churches Together in England, on behalf of sister churches and ecumenical partners
Dr Amrick Singh, Chair of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group
Mrs Dawn Brathwaite, lay member of General Synod - on behalf of the laity The Reverend Canon Dr Mark Pryce, Director of Ministry and Chaplain to the King - on behalf of the clergy and licensed ministers
Dr Jan Smart, Diocesan Secretary on behalf of Diocesan Staff
Photographs to be made available later this week.