Bishop Penberthy preaches at national festival in Wales

THE sermon at the opening service of the National Eisteddfod, a poetry and music festival in Wales, was delivered by a woman bishop for the first time this weekend. The Bishop of St Davids, the Rt Revd Joanna Penberthy, focused on the importance of being an open and welcoming nation. The festival is taking place on Anglesey in the diocese of Bangor.

Dean of St Edmundsbury resigns to pursue studies

THE Dean of St Edmundsbury, the Very Revd Dr Frances Ward, is to leave her post to study for a second doctorate while her husband, Peter, trains for ordination, it was announced last month. Dean Ward, who is 57, will take her last service at the cathedral on Sunday 15 October. A permanent successor will be appointed next year.

Suffolk Rector given suspended sentence

THE Rector of St Mary’s, Hadleigh, in Suffolk, and Dean of Bocking, the Very Revd Martin Thrower, has been given a suspended sentence, after pleading guilty to two voyeurism charges (News, 23 June). Last week, a judge at Norwich Crown Court sentenced him to four months for each count, suspended for 24 months. Mr Thrower must also complete a 60-day course to address sex-offending behaviour.