A Lancashire Curate, Rev Anna Walker, is about to be commissioned as the new Director of Whalley Abbey.  

The Bishop of Blackburn, Rt Rev Philip North, will lead a special Commissioning Service at nearby St Mary’s Parish Church this coming weekend – on Sunday, November 5 at 2pm.  

There will also be prayers in the Abbey ruins after the service; followed by refreshments. All are welcome.  

Anna has been ordained for many years and, following a move from Finland to the UK, most recently served as Curate in the parishes of St Aidan’s Bamber Bridge and St Leonard’s Walton-le-Dale.  

Our ancient Abbey site has been revitalised in more recent times as our Diocesan ‘Centre for Christian Discipleship and Prayer’. It is open to people from our many parishes, but also to anyone from Lancashire and beyond who wants to take time out in a wonderful and peaceful setting.  

Find out more about the Abbey and forthcoming events by clicking here.  

Bishop Philip said today: "I’m really looking forward to the commissioning service this Sunday. It will be an important moment in the life of our Diocese. 

“Anna has a strong and clear vision of how to continue the growth of Whalley Abbey. She and her husband Andrew are passionate about living in the community, providing a place of prayer and hospitality and helping to form new and deep disciples for Jesus Christ.” 

Anna added: “I am very excited about this opportunity to be working at such a wonderful place of prayer, encounter, learning and challenge. I can't wait to settle into the rhythm of prayer at the Abbey and welcome more people to deepen their spirituality and discipleship.” 

Read more here.

Anna will be interviewed on BBC Radio Lancashire during the Sunday morning programme this weekend, November 5, airing between 6am-10am and thereafter on BBC Sounds. 

Captions for above pictures, top to bottom:

• Rev Anna Walker 
• Bishop Philip North 
• Whalley Abbey – the main Abbey house 
• A view of the Whalley Abbey grounds, including the medieval Abbey ruins