Throughout the 27th January [2026], Bishop Sarah travelled across our Diocese, visiting schools, churches, businesses and community groups, meeting clergy, lay ministers and diocesan staff - listening to local stories and seeing at first-hand the breadth of ministry and mission taking place.
Beginning her day at Pathfinder C of E Primary School, we eagerly awaited the official Downing Street announcement of her nomination for election as the next Bishop of Ely. Staff and pupils at the school were the first to meet the newly announced Bishop designate. Bishop Sarah and Bishop Dagmar took part in a whole-school assembly, alongside members of the 'Worship Gang' and the Rev'd Dr Beth Cope, (Bishop's Advisor for New Housing and Pioneer Minister for Northstowe).
Post-assembly tea and cakes were accompanied by searching questions posed by the children for the two Bishops. Bishop Sarah also met with members of Pathfinder Church, hearing more about their Bid for Northstowe’s First Faith and Community Space.
Next stop was at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Arbury to meet volunteers and the wider community at their Community Living Room. The Community Living Room runs every Tuesday and is described as "a warm and friendly space to meet others, with free refreshments and the chance to collect a free, small food parcel including fresh vegetables".
After a community lunch, chatting with clergy and community members, Bishop Sarah's tour took her to the north of the Diocese to St Mary's, Welney. The Coffee Social team at Welney recently became finalists in the BBC Make a Difference Awards, and were namechecked in a recent speech in Westminster by MP Terry Jermy.
As Bishop Sarah is a keen birdwatcher and nature lover, a flying visit to WWT Welney was a real treat. A quick tour from centre manager Lizzie and a few minutes to take in the beauty of the fens.
Heading back towards Ely, a tour of G's Mushroom Farm in Littleport showcased some of the proud farming history and culture in our Diocese. Founded in 1952, today, G’s is one of Europe’s largest fresh produce businesses.
As the sun started to set on the day, staff at the Diocesan Office, Etheldreda House, welcomed Bishop Sarah to their all-staff meeting; before her visit ended with Evensong at the beautiful Ely Cathedral.