We were delighted to welcome the Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Robert Atwell, to The Maynard on Wednesday 5 December 2018. He spent a lesson with the Sixth Form Religious Studies students, explaining to them his role as bishop, which includes responsibility for over 600 churches throughout Devon. He then responded to questions from the girls, covering a wide range of topics relating both to their A-level syllabus and to their general interest in religion and its role in the world.
Bishop Robert spoke about his own views about hell, evil and suffering. He shared his understanding of the role of the church in secular and multi-faith societies and responded to the girls’ questions about biblical interpretation, evangelism and religious experience. He stressed the importance of mutual respect and understanding, of being prepared to live with the unknown and of helping others to find joy in life.
The girls were very appreciative of his considered, honest and insightful answers to their questions and were particularly encouraged by his confident assertion that there is likely to be a female Archbishop before too long!
