Bishop Rose mentions some adverse childhood experiences and if you are affected by this or similar experiences, you can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
Last week, the Diocese of Liverpool was delighted to welcome Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin to speak at the Florrie in Toxteth. The evening brought together an engaged and diverse audience to hear Bishop Rose share the deeply personal story of her journey through faith, resilience, and leadership.
Bishop Rose began by reflecting on her early life in Montego Bay, Jamaica, drawing a vivid image of her upbringing there and then moving onto her experiences of her early life in the United Kingdom. She spoke movingly about her family in Jamaica, particularly her relationship with her mother and sister, and how those relationships shaped her path.
Throughout the evening, Bishop Rose spoke with humility and honesty about the challenges she faced in ministry, especially as a Black woman in the Church of England. She shared how those early struggles did not define her but fuelled her determination, eventually leading to her roles as Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, Priest Vicar at Westminster Abbey, and Chaplain to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her remarkable journey ultimately led to her historic appointment as the Church of England’s first Black female bishop.
A central theme of her lecture and of course her book, was the persistence of discrimination, both overt and subtle, within church life and wider society. Bishop Rose’s reflections offered a powerful call to action for a more inclusive and equitable Church.
She also shared heartfelt stories about meeting her husband Ken, whose unwavering support has remained a cornerstone throughout both of their journeys. Her warmth and humour shone through as she recounted their early years together.
The evening left a lasting impression on all who attended, offering a message of hope, courage, and faith in the face of adversity.
Commenting on the event Rev Canon Dr Ellen Loudon said “Bishop Rose was generous enough to spend the day with women clergy sharing her ministry experience. This time was uplifting, challenging and a boost of confidence! Our evening lecture provided us with more food for thought as Bishop Rose spoke movingly about her early childhood experiences and was candid about the racism she has faced in ministry. In all these challenges I was inspired by the deep faith that has held Bishop Rose close to her calling in Christ. And it was wonderful to hear her sing and watch her dance!“
Jennie Taylor, Racial Justice Officer at the Diocese of Liverpool added “Bishop Rose’s morning lecture with a focus on ministry and leadership for women in lay and ordained roles was a great encouragement for all of us to see the opportunities for supporting each and to be courageous advocates for younger women in all types of ministries inside and outside of the Church. I was moved by her perseverance to hold onto her faith and her joy in the face of challenges and her encouragement to all of us to find what makes our souls sing in whatever context we serve in.“
We extend our sincere thanks to Bishop Rose for her generosity in sharing her story with us, and to everyone who joined us at the Florrie for this uplifting and memorable event.
You can watch Bishop Rose’s lecture in full here.
