Dr Rowan Williams received two standing ovations from General Synod yesterday in appreciation of his service to the Church and nation as Archbishop of Canterbury.
In a touching farewell speech, the second most senior figure in the Church of England, the Archbishop of York praised Dr Williams’ intellect and his “tremendous courage” over the years.
“In the thick of recession and of conflicts near and far, we have come to rely on you for the voice of reason, faith and deeply rooted Christian hope,” said Archbishop John Sentamu.
“You have not fought shy of conflict, but you have been courageous and outspoken, especially on matters of our humanity and justice.”
Dr Sentamu said that although the role of Archbishop of Canterbury was symbolic it had been “very, very costly to you personally”.
“Of course, like me, by a few you have been criticised for not being true-blood English,” he said.
“I have appreciated the solidarity this has given us as missionary Archbishops in this land of hope and glory.”