A NEW bishop who will serve parishes across south Essex has been ordained at St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Rt Rev John Wraw, was formally ordained by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, during a ceremony at the famous London church.

In a further ceremony, which will be held at Chelmsford Cathedral on Sunday, Mr Wraw, 53, will be installed and welcomed as the fifth Bishop of Bradwell.

Formerly the Archdeacon of Wiltshire, Mr Wraw will succeed the Rt Rev Dr Laurie Green, who retired in February last year, after eight years in the post.

The area of Bradwell, within the Diocese of Chelmsford, includes 145 parishes across south and east Essex, including Basildon, Southend and parts of Thurrock.

Speaking after the service at St Paul’s, Mr Wraw, who has four children with wife, Gillian, said: “Walking into St Paul’s Cathedral was an intensely humbling and awesome experience.

“I much valued the gentle support of the Archbishop of Canterbury and an inspiring sermon by the Bishop of Chelmsford, the Rt Rev Stephen Cottrell.

“I’ve already met many committed and gifted lay people and clergy across the area.

“This is an exciting time to be coming to the Diocese of Chelmsford.

“Together, we are called to live out the gracious love and generosity of God in the towns and villages and communities across Essex.”

Mr Wraw entered the church 26 years ago. During that time, he has served across the country, holding a variety of titles.

In 1998, he was appointed Area Dean of Rotherham and was also made an Honorary Canon of Sheffield Cathedral in 2001.

Admittance to the ceremony at Chelmsford Cathedral on Sunday is by invitation only.