Bishop Sophie’s Visit to the Bridges Group

On 5 November, the Bridges Group had the privilege of welcoming Bishop Sophie Jelley as part of her tour of the Southam Deanery. The visit was designed to give the Bishop a real sense of the life and ministry within our rural parishes. Starting with a filming session at Chesterton Windmill and a conversation about community initiatives in Harbury, Bishop Sophie then joined us for a whistle-stop tour of our churches.

The itinerary included Napton, Priors Hardwick, Priors Marston, Lower Shuckburgh, and Stockton, where the team extended a warm welcome and shared stories of faith and resilience during this long vacancy. A bring-and-share lunch at Stockton Church provided time for fellowship and discussion, as well as an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and hopes for the future of ministry in the Bridges Group.

Despite the tight schedule and local roadworks, the day was marked by generosity, hospitality, and a shared commitment to sustaining vibrant worship and community life. Bishop Sophie expressed her gratitude for the dedication shown across the parishes and assured us of her continued support as we look ahead to the next steps in filling the vacancy.