THIS WEEK IN 1985: The seventh Bishop of Portsmouth sails in
Dignitaries from throughout the diocese, which stretches north to Oxford and includes the Channel Islands, gathered in their droves for the occasion.
Civic heads, clergy, MPs, and representatives of the armed forces and the Royal Navy were present to witness the ceremony, steeped in history, at Portsmouth Cathedral.
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Hide AdThe Rt Rev Timothy John Bavin came to Portsmouth from Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was succeeded by Nobel Peace Prize winner Bishop Desmond Tutu.
Bishop Bavin arrived in Portsmouth in the Admiral’s barge which he boarded at Fareham. He then led a magnificent procession through the streets of Old Portsmouth to the enthronement.
Bishop Bavin took the Declaration of Assent and the Oath. Kissing the bible, he said: ‘I will observe the ancient and approved customs of this church, and will do all in my power to further its mission. So help me God.’