THE Ven Dr Fiona Gibson was ordained as the new Bishop of Taunton during a service of consecration in Southwark Cathedral on Friday (February 6).

Bishop Fiona officially became a bishop alongside the Ven Jean Burgess, who is now the Bishop of Grimsby, in the Diocese of Lincoln.

The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, presided over the service.

Fiona was presented for ordination and consecration by the Bishop of Bath and Wells the Rt Rev Michael Beasley as receiving bishop, and the Bishop of Hereford the Rt Rev Richard Jackson, the sending bishop.

During the service, David Gibson, Fiona’s husband, read Lamentations 3.52-60.

The second reading was from Galatians 2.19 – 3.6, by the daughter of Jean Burgess.

The sermon was given by the Rev Canon Jo McKee, who is head of leadership and development and director of the Arrow Programme of the Church Pastoral Aid Society.

Addressing the congregation during the ordination, Archbishop Stephen said: “Bishops are called to serve and care the flock of Christ.

“Mindful of the Good Shepherd, who laid down his life for his sheep, they are to love and pray for those committed to their charge, knowing their people and being known by them.”

Later in the service the archbishop and other bishops present laid their hands on each ordinand in turn.

Fiona and Jean were then both presented with a Bible by the Archbishop of York, who then anointed the new bishops, and gave them their pectoral cross and episcopal ring.

The new bishops were welcomed with heartfelt applause by those present.

At the end of the service, both bishops were given their pastoral staff.

Bishop Fiona will be welcomed to the Bath and Wells Diocese during evensong in Wells Cathedral on Sunday (February 8), when all are welcome to attend.