The Archbishop of York reflects on the trials he has faced – including living under Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and surviving cancer – and the strength he found in God in one of his final services as Primate of England.
The special broadcast across BBC Local Radio this Sunday is led by Archbishop John Sentamu’s daughter and features his wife, who are both priests.
Archbishop Sentamu has spent 15 years as Primate of England and Metropolitan in the Church of England. On one memorable occasion he cut up his dog collar live on the Andrew Marr Show in protest of Robert Mugabe’s rule in Zimbabwe.
Speaking ahead of the service, Archbishop Sentamu said: “It has been a great joy and privilege to serve as Archbishop of York these past 15 years. Not only did I get to live in God’s own county, but I have been able to be a voice for the North, championing the cause of those who live here.
“Now it is time to open a new chapter in my life and I welcome the opportunity during these strange times to share some reflections, readings, songs and prayers with listeners of local radio.
“I am assured that Jesus Christ will continue to be my constant companion and guide in whatever is to come and my prayer is that all may come to know him as their personal friend and Saviour. Every blessing!”
Archbishop Sentamu’s daughter, Reverend Grace Sentamu-Baverstock, will lead the service. It will also feature his wife, Reverend Margaret Sentamu.
Opening the service, Revd Sentamu-Baverstock says that it is “a day for looking back with thanksgiving and blessing, but also looking forward with hope”.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s service, BBC England’s head of religion and ethics, Ashley Peatfield, said: “We are pleased to be marking the retirement of a hugely important figure in the Anglican Church.
“Archbishop John Sentamu has been a cornerstone of the church for 15 years and has become a household name to millions.”
All BBC Local Radio stations are broadcasting church services each Sunday during the coronavirus pandemic. Reflections from other religions are being broadcast throughout the week.
The service can be heard on all BBC Local Radio stations from 8am on Sunday. It was produced by BBC Radio York.
