THE Bishop of Plymouth, Rt Rev Nick McKinnel is to meet Jake the “singing” dog during his three-day visit to Crediton and the surrounding area this weekend to talk about the new vision for the Church of England in Devon.

Bishop Nick will meet Jake at St Peter’s Church, Washford Pyne on Sunday where Jake is a regular attender and loves to join in by “singing” along with the hymns.

On Friday, August 5, Bishop Nick begins his visit by going to some businesses on the Lords Meadow Industrial Estate in Crediton and then will lead Evening Prayer at Crediton’s Holy Cross Church.

In the evening he will have a meeting with churchwardens for a time of encouragement, teaching and questions at the Boniface Centre.

On Saturday, August 6, he will visit Crediton Farmers’ Market at 10am and will then, at 11am, open the Country Fair at Downes House in aid of Posbury Church.

At 3pm he will present “The Main Event”, a video and talk sharing the Diocesan vision for Prayer, Growth and Service at the Boniface Centre. All are invited to attend and hear him give a presentation on how those in the Deanery can develop in prayer, growth and service. This event is open to everyone.

At 5pm he will attend a barbecue in the Lower Rectory Garden before attending a Vocations event, for those interested in growing in ministry at The Lamb Inn at Sandford.

On Sunday, August 7, he will lead services of Holy Communion at Knowle at 9am, Washford Pyne at 11.15am and Poltimore at 4pm.

Bishop Nick said: “There is a great deal going on in the parishes and churches around Crediton and I shall enjoy being part of that as well as encouraging us to share in the diocesan priorities to grow in prayer, make new disciples and serve the people of Devon with joy.”

Rural Dean Nigel Guthrie said: “We are really looking forward to Bishop Nick’s visit as he knows Mid Devon well, and will be able to encourage those looking after our churches and share a vision of the Church which makes priorities of praying, making new disciples and serving our community.”

Bishop Robert, the Bishop of Exeter, launched the new vision and its three priorities to pray, grow and serve with joy this spring.

He and the Bishop of Plymouth and the Bishop of Crediton, Dame Sarah Mullally, are spending the year visiting parishes to talk with people about the priorities to grow the Church in Devon, and to serve the community.

Alan Quick