As you stand here in front of the Diocese of Exeter, take a moment to imagine what this place was like nearly a thousand years ago-stone walls rising up, townsfolk bustling by, and the occasional ringing of church bells. Exeter’s diocese covers all of Devon, making it one of the grandest in England-big enough that you’d need a very sturdy pair of walking boots to see it all!
Now, at the heart of it all is the magnificent Cathedral Church of St Peter-home base for the Bishop of Exeter. Today, that’s Mike Harrison. He’s got quite the team: a Bishop of Plymouth and (usually) a Bishop of Crediton, though that spot’s empty at the moment. It’s almost like assembling the Avengers, only in fancier robes.
The story of the Diocese actually begins in the town of Crediton back in 909 AD. St. Boniface was born there, and, apparently, if you’re going to pick a spot for your cathedral, birthplace perks go a long way. But in 1050, Bishop Leofric decided Crediton just didn’t have enough pizzazz-or city walls. So he upped sticks to Exeter, bringing a royal order from King Edward the Confessor. Just imagine medieval movers hauling ancient relics and manuscripts through muddy lanes! Leofric became the first Bishop of Exeter, making the city’s role in church life official.
Since then, the Diocese has seen all sorts of changes-shifting boundaries, new bishops, and even a new diocese breaking away in Cornwall. Nowadays, you could nearly get lost in all the archdeaconries, deaneries, and titles-Devon’s got more church leaders than a biscuit tin’s got crumbs.
If you ever spot the Diocese’s coat of arms-a pair of golden keys crossed with a silver sword and topped with a bishop’s hat-that’s a nod to the cathedral’s patron saints, Peter and Paul. So, next time someone quizzes you on Exeter history, you’ll have the (bishops’) keys to success!
Ready to move on? Let’s see where history leads us next!
