Rt Revd Graeme Knowles, acting Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, on his new role

A newly installed Suffolk bishop has spoken of building on the legacy left to him to ensure the Church adapts to today’s ‘ever-changing life’.

Rt Revd Graeme Knowles was recently installed as acting Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich following the retirement of Bishop Martin Seeley, who led the Church of England in Suffolk for 10 years.

The recruitment process is well under way to find a new bishop and, although Bishop Graeme’s appointment as acting bishop is for a year, there is an expectation a new permanent appointment could be in place sooner.

Bishop Graeme, 73, who is married to Susan, said: ‘‘I want to maintain and build upon the legacy left by Bishop Martin who nurtured partnerships in farming, supporting young people, health, education, the military and local politics.

‘‘Bishop Martin ensured that the role of the Church throughout Suffolk strengthened it’s place in local communities and evolved to become more relevant in what is a fast moving world.

‘‘Now I want to carry the Church forward, this is not the time to stand still, and to make it ready in eager expectation of the new Bishop arriving so that when they arrive they find it fit for purpose and adapting to the ever-changing life of today’s people.

‘‘As a community, the Church is made up of any number of people of differing views and ideas, and I hope that here in Suffolk parishioners will be receptive of my efforts to take us forward.’’

Bishop Graeme, consecrated as a bishop in 2003 and who served as a Bishop of Sodor and Man, has also been a Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral and Acting Dean of St Edmundsbury Cathedral among his senior roles.

Bishop Graeme, of Bury St Edmunds, said: ‘‘I was reminded of how important is the role of bishop at my installation where I was deeply moved to see so many people coming to support me.’’

Bishop Tim Stevens, formerly Bishop of Leicester now living in Bury St Edmunds, has agreed to assist Bishop Graeme.

Bishop Tim knows Suffolk well, having been Bishop of Dunwich from 1995 to 1999.

Bishop Graeme, who was installed at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, added: “Our combined knowledge of what remains such a beautiful and traditional county will hopefully stand us in good stead as we tackle the next few months together.”