It was both awe-inspiring and humbling to be introduced into the House of Lords, having been summoned by Her Majesty 'to be personally present at our aforesaid Parliament... and to give your counsel upon the affairs aforesaid'. The Introduction itself was a short and simple affair, as the bishops of Birmingham and Carlisle walked me into the Chamber, the writ was read, I responded, and then - with a bow to the Lord Speaker - took up my place on the Bench of Bishops. And while I have a rather demanding day job already in the Diocese of Guildford, I do hope to make a real contribution in the Lords as well, especially in the area of FoRB - Freedom of Religion and Belief - around the world.

The day itself was much enhanced by having my wife, my sister and three of our children in the public gallery, with little grandson Natti sitting in the Bishop's Robing Room and treating the occasion with due solemnity!

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Bishop Andrew