The service, which was due to take place in York Minster, was held in two parts, and broadcast entirely via video conference because of the Coronavirus restrictions. The event comprised a legal ceremony with readings, prayers and music, followed by a film marking the start of Bishop Stephen’s ministry as Archbishop of York.

Bishop Stephen says: “I am looking forward to beginning my ministry as the 98th Archbishop of York. This isn’t quite how I imagined it would begin. It is certainly the first time an Archbishop’s election will have been confirmed via video conference. But we’re all having to re-imagine how we live our lives and how we inhabit the world.

“These are difficult times. My hope is that through this service the love of God that is given us in Jesus Christ will shine out, perhaps even to those who while never attending a service in York Minster, might have a look online.

Following in the footsteps of my many predecessors, I look forward to serving our nation and bringing the love and peace of Christ to our world, especially here in the north.”

A video of the service is available on the Church of England website (www.churchofengland.org).