New Year’s Honours List: Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin ‘surprised and humbled’ by MBE

The Church of England’s first black female bishop has been cited as one of the most influential and effective ministers in the public sphere

AWARDED: Revd Dr Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover (Photo: Jim Drew)

THE RT REVD Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover, has been made an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list for 2020. 

The citation states: “Everywhere she has gone, she has broken down barriers and made history. She has campaigned relentlessly for equality for women in the church, which paved the way for others.”

It adds: “She has been one of the most influential and effective ministers in the public sphere through her long service as chaplain to the speaker of the House of Commons. She previously served as a member of the General Synod of the Church of England and also as one of the panel chairs of the synod.”

Speaking in response to this recognition of her ministry, Bishop Rose said: “I am surprised and deeply humbled that I have been recommended to be awarded an MBE. I am committed to giving – and will continue to give – my best in serving all those entrusted to my care, whether I encounter them just once or many times – from the young person on the street to the formal setting of a classroom, politicians making our laws or those I meet here in my new role with the diocese of Canterbury.”

Hudson-Wilkin was consecrated as the Bishop of Dover in November. She is the first black woman to hold the post.

Commenting on her appointment at the time, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: “When in October Rose stepped down as Chaplain to the Speaker, the tributes from all sides showed her pastoral, prophetic and faith sharing gifts.

“Even in times of division she was a point of unity and hope, to those of any or no faith. Through much struggle and suffering in her life she has become one of the most exceptional of Christian leaders showing, in word and deed, confidence in Jesus Christ as life, liberty and love.” 

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6 Comments

  1. | Stella Famutimi

    Congratulations Bishop Rose, you deserve the honor, I once saw you sweeping the church premises when you’re a Rev. in a church at Haggerston in east London. I was astonished , because where I come from Revs don’t do that . You don’t only say the words of God. You lead by example. May the almighty God continue to bless your ministry in Jesus Christ Name. Amen

    Reply

  2. | Elsa Thompson

    Congratulations, Bishop!!! Continue to let God’s light shine through your every act!! Blessed love!!!

    Reply

  3. | Herman Irish

    Bishop Rose,

    May God bless you in your efforts I remembered being introduced to you some years ago; by Rev Esme Beswick MBE a former President in Churches of England who was the first black Priest to administer at St. George’s Chapel Windsor.
    You come across as humble sole and showed special quality in your welcoming and words.

    Reply

  4. | Veron Lee Campbell

    Bishop Rose, to God be the glory for the journey He has taken you on. You have persevered through it all. Blessings!

    Reply

  5. | Ngozi

    Dear ‘sister’ Rev’d Rose, we are Sistah Space could not be more happier. You deserve your promotions and award.

    You have always been there for the many different communities in London. We are honoured to have known you.

    May you continue to positively touch lives as you journey on. Please come back and see us anytime.

    Reply

  6. | Bishop Dr. Esme Beswick M. B. E

    Congratulations Bishop Rose I salute you , you are a woman of stature who is a positive role model to many.

    Reply

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