Trees mark archbishop's Devon connections

Three magnolia trees are set to be planted to celebrate the new Archbishop of Canterbury's connections to Devon.

The Most Reverend Dame Sarah Mullally became the first woman to be chosen for the role in October, having previously served as Bishop of Crediton in the diocese of Exeter in 2015.

The Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Dr Mike Harrison, said Dame Sarah recently planted two magnolia trees at the entrance to Lambeth Palace - the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury - to "symbolise new beginnings, hope and patience in her ministry".

He said three magnolia trees would also be planted across the county ahead of her official installation on Wednesday 25 March.

The Diocese of Exeter said one of the trees will be planted at the Holy Cross church in Crediton, the seat of the Bishop of Crediton.

A second will be planted in the grounds of Hospiscare's ward at Searle House in Exeter, in recognition of her former roles as NHS chief nursing officer and vice-president of Hospiscare.

The third will be planted by the Bishop of Exeter in the garden of the Bishop's Palace, adjacent to Exeter Cathedral.

Bishop Harrison said the trees "symbolise Archbishop Sarah's engagement with healthcare, Crediton and the people of the Diocese of Exeter.

"Just as magnolia trees symbolise perseverance, renewal and joy, we pray that these dimensions may be evident in her ministry in the coming years, and we give thanks for her willingness to take on this daunting but vitally important leadership role."

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