A FAREWELL Service for the retiring Bishop of Grimsby will be held today.
The Right Reverend David Rossdale, the Bishop of Grimsby, will be presiding at the service at Grimsby Minster.
Bishop David has been in the role since June 2000, and has held responsibility for appointments, pastoral care and development of clergy in the northern half of the Diocese, and has also been central to the strategic direction of the Diocese as a member of the Bishop of Lincoln's consultative staff and as a member of Diocesan Synod and Diocesan Council.
Bishop David will be particularly remembered for his work as chair of the Diocesan Board of Education, shaping the direction of Church Schools across the Diocese of Lincoln.
Speaking on the announcement of his retirement, Bishop David said: "It has been a wonderful 12 years during which I have learned much and I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside the priests and people in the north of the Diocese.
"There have been many challenges and opportunities along the way and it has been a rewarding and often exciting journey.
"I feel that it is now time to move on and discover how my particular experience and energy might be used to serve God and God's mission in the world in new ways."
The Farewell Service start at 2.30pm at Grimsby Minster. Parking and space will be limited so those attending are advised to allow plenty of time for parking and travelling to the Minster.