Bishop visit makes history at Norfolk church
 The Bishop of Norwich, Rt Rev Graham James, made history when he preached at Neatishead Baptist Church last weekend, to help mark their 200th anniversary as he became the first Bishop to ever set foot in the church.
Neatishead Baptist Church, near Wroxham, was delighted to welcome the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Reverend Graham James, as guest preacher on 15th May as part of the church's 200th anniversary celebrations.
As far as records can be checked, this is the first time a bishop has set foot in the church. Baptists don't have bishops; their equivalents are called Regional Ministers.
Bishop Graham spoke about how much inter-church relations had moved on the last 200 years. In 1811 the newly formed Baptist church at Neatishead would have never dreamed of inviting an Anglican to preach. And, even if they had, the Bishop of the day would have most likely have refused to visit a non-conformist church. How good that times have changed!
Speaking on St John chapter 10, Bishop Graham brought his hazel-wood crozier to remind the congregation of the features of a shepherd's crook and work. He spoke of Jesus as Shepherd, who guides and guards with a firm but gentle hand.
 During the service the Bishop dedicated three cross-stitch cushions that had been designed by a church member for the anniversary. Several members of he congregation each did a few squares. After the service the Bishop joined the congregation for a buffet lunch. Revd Sue Seeley said, "Altogether a ground-breaking visit for our small rural non-conformist church and a real joy and privilege!"
Pictured above: Bishop Graham with Larry Lamb; the oldest member of the church at 94 and still a lay preacher.
Pictured right: Bishop Graham with cushion designer Joan Wellstead | 