Ely celebrates 900 years

This weekend, the Diocese of Ely launches Ely 900, a year of special events to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the diocese being formed in 1109 from part of the Diocese of Lincoln.

All 350 parishes have been invited to take part in Saturday’s (January 24) launch at the cathedral, with the Archbishop of Canterbury. Ely will become a Fair Trade Diocese this year, as soon as at least 50% of parishes have applied for Fairtrade Status. Fairtrade communion wine has been introduced to the diocese this year.

Other projects include ‘Shrinking our Carbon Footprint’ and the Mission Project to provide scholarships for children in the Indian diocese of Vellore. Events include a choirs festival (May 16) and ‘Rave in the Nave’ youth event (July 10). ‘We are committed to mission in every aspect,’ said the Bishop of Ely, Dr Anthony Russell, ‘and shall be thinking creatively about our responsibility to pass on the Christian faith to future generations.’