Chelmsford Diocese Receives Lichfield Cathedral Stone as Faith Symbol

Historic Stone Gift Unites Two Dioceses in Faith

In a symbolic gesture of shared faith and historical ties, church leaders from the Diocese of Chelmsford have been entrusted with a stone from a spire of Lichfield Cathedral. This stone will be installed at the altar of St Peter-on-the-Wall in Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex, to celebrate the ancient connections between the dioceses of Lichfield and Chelmsford.

The Bishop of Chelmsford, Guli Francis-Dehqani, along with Dean Jessica Martin, made the journey to Lichfield to receive this stone. The presentation followed their commissioning at the culmination of the 2025 Bradwell Pilgrimage.

This historic connection dates back to the 7th century when St Cedd, having been educated at Lindisfarne, served as a missionary bishop in the Midlands before moving to the East Saxons, the origin of the name Essex. He is credited with founding St Peter’s Chapel around 654 AD, while his brother, St Chad, became the Bishop of Lichfield.

St Peter’s Chapel, a continuous site of worship, already houses stones symbolizing Britain’s Christian legacy from places such as Iona, Lindisfarne, and Lastingham. The Lichfield stone will further enrich this collection, aligning with the theme of this year’s Bradwell pilgrimage, “Living Stones.”

The ceremonial handover was led by the Bishop of Lichfield, Michael Ipgrave, and Canon Chancellor Gregory Platten.

Subsequent plans include consecrating the stone during this year’s pilgrimage, preceding its integration into St Peter’s altar.

Bishop Francis-Dehqani expressed, “We were warmly welcomed at Lichfield Cathedral, and it was wonderful to celebrate the bond between our two dioceses.

“The story we share – of Cedd and Chad – is not merely part of our history, but a living faith that continues to unite and inspire us.

“This stone stands as a powerful symbol of that story: of faith, mission and our shared heritage. I am delighted that it will be placed within the altar at St Peter’s Chapel in Bradwell-on-Sea and I look forward to celebrating its new home at this year’s Bradwell Pilgrimage.”