The new Bishop of Sherwood has praised the way the Church has helped communities during the coronavirus crisis.

The Rt Rev Andrew Emerton began his role after a special online licensing by the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Rt Rev Paul Williams.

“The current context we find ourselves in is challenging in so many ways, but it is also full of opportunity,” said the Rt Rev Emerton.

“Covid-19 has meant that the Church has had to learn to engage in new ways and there is a whole lot of brilliant innovation and creativity in evidence as people reimagine what community and community engagement looks like in this season.

“One of the best things the Church has done is reach out in practical ways to our neighbours through food banks and neighbourhood schemes, as well as the new initiatives that have emerged.

“Maintaining the digital connection that the Church has established is going to be an important area over the coming weeks and months as well as how we reach those outside the Church and engage with younger audiences.”

Ordained as a priest in 2006, the Rt Rev Emerton has ministered among and served communities in Glasgow, Guildford and most recently in London.

In Nottinghamshire, he is particularly looking forward to raising up and supporting leaders and serving deprived communities across the Diocese.

The new bishop added: “I’m really excited at having the opportunity to serve right across Nottinghamshire in all its diversity.

“I am passionate about developing leaders who are able to offer healthy and effective leadership for the long haul, making a real difference on the ground to the communities they serve, whether within or outside the church”

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