Who is the Archbishop of York? Why Stephen Cottrell is stepping in for Justin Welby

Following on from the spectacular displays of Thursday’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Friday will begin with a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Queen announced on Thursday evening that she would not be attending, having experienced “some discomfort” during Thursday’s events.

And earlier this week, the Archibishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, said he would not be able to attend the service at which he was due to preach.

Instead the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell will take his place and deliver the sermon.

Why is the Archbishop of York stepping in to lead the service at short notice?

Welby was diagnosed with mild pneumonia last Thursday. He then developed Covid symptoms and tested positive for the virus on Monday.

He said: “I am deeply saddened to be missing the historic celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. However, I will be praying for the Queen and giving thanks for her extraordinary 70 years of service to us all.

“I will also be praying for our nation at this time of celebration and thanksgiving. May the Queen’s example bring us together in unity and care for one another.”

It was announced that the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell would take his place.

Who is Stephen Cottrell?

Cottrell, 63, is a church of England bishop and has been the Archbishop of York and Primate of England since 9 July, 2020.

He is the second most senior bishop of the church and the most senior in northern England.

He has previously served as the Bishop of Reading and the Bishop of Chelmsford.

Born in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex in 1958, he said he found his faith as a teenager.

He studied for a degree in media studies at the Polytechnic of Central London, gaining his BA in 1979. After a brief spell working in the film industry and at St Christopher’s Hospice in South London, he trained for ordination in Oxford. He then went on to study Christian leadership in London, graduating with an MA in 2019.

He has written more than 20 books, including children’s books and has a passion for poetry, music and art. The publication of his book on the artist Stanley Spencer prompted a podcast discussion with Russell Brand.

Cottrell, who has undertaken several walking pilgrimages, is married to Rebecca, who is a potter. They have three sons.

Who will be at the Service of Thanksgiving today?

More than 400 key workers, charity volunteers and members of the armed forces will join senior royals at St Paul’s Cathedral this morning. Coverage of the service will be broadcast on BBC One and at 11.10am on BBC Radio 4.

Prince Andrew, who was due to be at the service, announced on Thursday he had tested positive for Covid so would not be attending. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be in attendance.

What does Stephen Cottrell think of his last-minute appearance?

Cottrell admitted it had been “the most overthought sermon” he will have ever delivered.

He said he was “really sad” the Queen would not be at the service.

Of his role on the day he told the BBC: “It is slightly terrifying, but a great honour”.