New Bishop of Exeter leads first Chrism Eucharist at Exeter Cathedral

The newly appointed Bishop of Exeter, The Rt Revd Dr Mike Harrison, presided over his first Maundy Thursday Chrism Eucharist at Exeter Cathedral, a significant annual event that brings together clergy and lay ministers from across Devon.

The Chrism Eucharist is a cornerstone of Holy Week in the Church calendar and marks one of the largest annual gatherings of clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) in the Diocese of Exeter. During the service, the bishop blesses three sacred oils, including the oil of chrism, used for anointing the sick and in baptism, which are then distributed to churches for use throughout the year.

In a moving address during the service, Bishop Mike reflected on the impact of spiritual mentors in his own life, including his childhood parish priest and a vicar he served with in London’s East End. Speaking directly to clergy and lay ministers present, he said:

“You are a window into God’s resilient and gentle compassion towards us… called to show something in yourselves of God’s beauty, God’s wisdom, God’s love. You are set apart to be visible.”

The service also included the renewal of vows by clergy and lay ministers, reaffirming their dedication to ministry in the presence of their bishop and fellow church leaders.

This year's service was particularly symbolic, not only marking Bishop Mike’s first Holy Week as Diocesan Bishop since his installation earlier this year, but also as a moment of unity for the Church in Devon as it prepares for Easter celebrations.

Maundy Thursday, which commemorates Jesus' Last Supper with his disciples and his subsequent arrest, signals the beginning of the Easter Triduum, leading into Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday.

Across the county, churches held Maundy Thursday services and vigils, continuing into the weekend with services that mark the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ - the cornerstone of Christian belief.

For more information on Easter services and diocesan events, visit exeter.anglican.org