I’m grateful to the Diocese of Edinburgh for this picture from Bishop John’s consecration – it appears on the cover of ‘The Edge’ magazine.
Interesting that the Lutherans have in some cases let go of the crozier, as it were. Bishop Agnes wasn’t handed one. Presumably they see it primarily as a symbol of authority and are uneasy with that.
So they miss the drama of this moment. This part of the action of the liturgy has lots of symbolism – bible, episcopal ring, pectoral cross, mitre, pastoral staff. There aren’t enough words to go with the symbols – but I have tried as on this occasion to hand over the crozier with the words ‘bring all together in love’