New Archdeacon of Salford and Bolton Licensed at Cathedral
The Ven Simon Cook was licensed by Bishop David during the Cathedral's lunchtime Eucharist before going on to present candidates at the afternoon's ordination services in his first official duties as Archdeacon.
It was a busy first day for the Diocese of Manchester’s new Archdeacon of Salford and Bolton. The Ven Simon Cook was licensed by Bishop David during the Cathedral’s lunchtime Eucharist before going on to present candidates at the afternoon’s ordination services in his first official duties as Archdeacon.
Simon succeeds Archdeacon Rachel Mann, who retired last week, and brings a wealth of experience in parish leadership and collaborative ministry. Simon has served in Manchester Diocese since his ordination in 2008, after training in Durham as an ordinand for Carlisle Diocese. His ministry here includes his curacy in the Broughton Team in Salford, ten years in parish ministry in Kirklees Valley and latterly as Area Dean in Bury, and then five years as full-time Area Dean of Bolton.
Speaking after the service, Simon said:
“I am honoured, humbled and excited to begin this new ministry today. I am also hugely grateful for the prayers and good wishes of so many of you over the time leading up to this new season. I am all too aware I have a steep learning curve to come with many surprises ahead, but I am thankful and encouraged by everything I know of the grace and love of the people, churches, chaplaincies and schools of the archdeaconries of Salford and Bolton – and I can’t wait to serve alongside you to see what God has in store for us together!”
A special service of Choral Evensong to welcome Simon to his new role will take place at Manchester Cathedral on Monday, 28th September at 5.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Service to Welcome Archdeacon Simon Cook – Diocese of Manchester