A Respected Anglican Voice Passes: Remembering Richard Harries
(Photo: Diocese of Southwark)
The Church of England has lost a prominent figure with the death of Richard Harries, former Bishop of Oxford, earlier this week. Known for his liberal views and intellectual contributions, Harries’ legacy continues to resonate within the church and beyond.
Harries, who was born in 1936 and became a priest in 1964, served as the Bishop of Oxford from 1993 until he retired in 2006. Throughout his life, he authored 26 books, leaving an indelible mark on theological scholarship and the broader religious discourse.
Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, expressed the magnitude of Harries’ passing, stating it is a “great loss” to both the Church of England and the nation. On social media platform X, she noted, “His wisdom, compassion and profound commitment to the common good will be missed in the Church, the House of Lords and beyond. As I pray for his family and all who mourn, I give thanks to God for a life so well lived in service to Jesus Christ. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.”
Bishop of Southwark, Christopher Chessun, paid homage to Harries as “a rare example of a humane, intelligent and compassionate Anglicanism, serving the Church of England and the nation with great distinction.” Following his retirement, Harries continued his public service in the House of Lords, where he remained an influential voice.
Chessun further reflected on Harries’ contributions, recalling, “He was a distinguished member of the House of Lords – I was present when he spoke for the last time at the end of March on the Assisted Dying Bill which he did with great authority and without a single note. His writings explored the implications of the Faith with searching conviction that was credible yet humble. I give thanks for his life and witness, and commend him as well as Jo and their family to your prayers at this time of loss.”
The Bishop of Kingston, Martin Gainsborough, also shared his respect for Harries, acknowledging the privilege of having Harries and his wife in a Kingston parish. He remarked on Harries’ distinguished career and noted, “I was conscious how we had in Bishop Richard one of the greats of Church of England bishops with such a distinguished episcopal and academic career. And yet I was struck by the humility with which he wore it. I give thanks for his life, witness and public service and pray for all who mourn his passing.”
Labour MP and former priest Chris Bryant offered a personal reflection on Harries’ impact, stating on X, “I’m very sorry to hear that Richard Harries has died. He was a lovely kind intelligent and spiritual man who served as Bishop of Oxford and a member of the House of Lords. Many will know his books or his radio appearances. But I knew him as the man who ordained me. RIP”.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
