A farewell service for the Bishop of Durham will be held today ahead of his retirement.

The public service will be attended by church and civic leaders at Durham Cathedral at 4:30pm on Saturday (January 27), before Right Reverend Paul Butler leaves the role he has occupied for ten years on February 29.

Bishop Paul said he felt greatly privileged to serve the people of Durham Diocese over the years.

He said: “Being called here was an unexpected, and challenging, step. Rosemary and I have loved the variety, beauty and challenges of this diverse Diocese.

“It is my hope and prayer that my ministry has helped God’s church truly be a blessing to our communities for the transformation of all from the Tyne to the Tees and the Dales to the Sea.

 “When we move away, we will miss the people and the places deeply.

“Yet we know the Diocese will be in good hands and that God will uphold and guide for all that lies ahead."

The Farewell Service will be introduced by the Dean of Durham, the Very Reverend Dr Philip Plyming.

Leading the Diocese of Durham until Bishop Paul’s successor is appointed will be the Bishop of Jarrow, the Right Reverend Sarah Clark.

She said they were all grateful for his leadership and commitment to the Diocese.:

She said: “As our Bishop he has enabled us to grow in boldness and imagination in our response to the opportunities and challenges that we encounter as we seek to be faithful disciples of Jesus.

Most read:

Grab our digital subscription for £3 for 3 months and stay connected with local happenings. Click here

“We look to the future thankfully and hopefully from a firm foundation.

“Bishop Paul has been a passionate advocate for the North East, both at a local and national level, championing education, our young people and the poorest in our society, and the rights of refugees and asylum seekers who come to this country seeking a better and safer life. He has been a voice for those who struggle to get heard.

“Our prayers and love will go with Paul and Rosemary as they prepare to enter the next chapter of their lives and once the end of February arrives, we will wish them well. I am sure God has plans and purposes for them both as they enter their retirement together.”