Clergy, Licensed Lay Ministers, chaplains and lay representatives from across the Diocese of Bristol gathered at Bristol Cathedral on Maundy Thursday, 2 April 2026, for the annual Chrism Eucharist. One of the most significant diocesan services of the year, the Eucharist marks the beginning of the Triduum and centres on the renewal of Christian ministry.
This years’ service took place during an episcopal vacancy, with the Rt Revd Neil Warwick presiding as Acting Bishop of Bristol, while continuing in his role as Bishop of Swindon. Music was led by musicians from Pattern Church, Swindon, alongside the Cathedral Consort, as clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers processed into the Cathedral.
As is traditional on Maundy Thursday, the service included the Renewal of Commitment to Ministry. Lay Ministers reaffirmed their calling to serve by word and example, deacons recommitted themselves to service and proclamation, and priests renewed their ordination vows. Bishop Neil also affirmed his own calling, supported by the prayers of the gathered assembly.
In her sermon, the Dean of Bristol, the Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, reflected on the story of Eli and Samuel, exploring how God’s call comes differently to each person and how God remains present with us, whatever our experience of vocation may be. She reminded those gathered that all ministry is rooted in baptism, which unites the whole people of God, and spoke of the bishop’s role not as a hierarchical figure but as a shepherd among the flock. Dean Mandy finished her sermon with an invitation of prayer for the appointment of the next Bishop of Bristol.
During the Blessing of the Holy Oils, the vials were brought forward and blessed for use across the diocese in the coming year. The oils will be used in baptisms, confirmations, anointings and pastoral ministry in parishes, schools, chaplaincies and hospitals.
The service heard the Cathedral filled with worshipful song, including Cornerstone, Holy Forever and the Gloria from Jonathan Dove’s Missa Brevis. The service concluded with Lift High the Cross, before ministers gathered for lunch and fellowship in the Chapter House.
Read the full Order of Service
We welcome you at our Easter Services, both at the Cathedral and parishes across the Diocese, on Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. Please check your local parish website or A Church Near You to find times for services this weekend.