A Lancashire curate will this weekend be unveiled as the new director of Whalley Abbey.  

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

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

The ancient Abbey site has been revitalised in recent times as a Diocesan ‘Centre for Christian Discipleship and Prayer’. It is open to people from our many parishes, but also to anyone from Lancashire and beyond.

Bishop Philip said: "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 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.”