In Bishop Dagmar's last monthly letter to the Diocese, she gave thanks for the fellowship, companionship and prayers shown to her since she joined us at the Diocese of Ely back in 2019. She also gave her thanks for the very many kind cards and emails received since announcing her departure in February (2026) to be Bishop of Edinburgh.
In her letter, Bishop Dagmar added:
“I love this quote from Romano Guardini: 'This is the deepest sense of hospitality - to offer one another rest and refreshment on the journey to our eternal home'.
As we remember today St Philip and St James, it’s worth noting that we really don’t know much about those two at all, but we do know the most important thing - they were companions of Jesus, learning to follow him, on that same journey to our eternal home.
The Collect for today [Sunday 3 May at Choral Evensong where Bishop Dagmar preached for the last time in Ely Cathedral] is apposite for me and for you:
Almighty Father,
whom truly to know is eternal life:
teach us to know your Son Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life;
that we may follow the steps of your holy apostles Philip and James,
and walk steadfastly in the way that leads to your glory;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
God bless your travels, friends.
+Dagmar"
The Rt Revd Dr Dagmar Winter, The Bishop of Huntingdon
You can watch a recording of Bishop Dagmar preaching for the last time in Ely Cathedral for Choral Evensong here (click here to view a recording of the service). This was also an opportunity to say good-bye before she moves to Edinburgh.
A video reel of Bishop’s Dagmar’s final service can also be seen on the Diocesan website here (click here).
Dr George Woods, Diocesan Secretary & CEO, Diocese of Ely, says of Bishop Dagmar's departure:
"It has been my genuine privilege and honour to serve alongside Bishop Dagmar during her time as Bishop of Huntingdon and Acting Bishop of Ely. Her kind, empathetic, thoughtful and wise counsel has been a constant source of strength both to me personally as I found my feet in the Diocese, and to the wider community she has served with such grace and dedication. My own transition into diocesan life was made immeasurably easier because of who Dagmar is and the warmth and compassion with which she leads. The Diocese of Ely is in a profoundly better place because of her leadership and her care, and that legacy will endure long after her departure. We release her to Edinburgh with gratitude, with our blessing, and with great confidence that the Scottish Episcopal Church receives an exceptional bishop. Thank you, Bishop Dagmar, it has been an honour."
From us all in the Diocese of Ely, we wish you, Bishop Dagmar, a fond and warm farewell as we give thanks for all you have done for our church communities over these past years. You will be missed.
Some highlights of Bishop Dagmar's time in the Diocese are included in this short video below.