THE Archbishop of Canterbury will visit the county for the second time as part of a packed programme of events this weekend.

The Most Rev Justin Welby will return to Sussex to visit the Diocese of Chichester from March 4 to March 6.

Almost a decade on from his last trip, the Archbishop will meet refugees at All Saints Church, Hove, before being quizzed by students at Holy Trinity Church of England Secondary School, Crawley and Christs Hospital School, Horsham.

In 2013, he received a warm welcome, attracting one of the largest crowds seen in the streets of Chichester as people jostled for a chance to meet the leader.

The Bishop of Chichester, Rt Rev'd Dr Martin Warner said: “We are delighted to welcome Archbishop Justin to the Diocese, and for him to experience something of the wonderful diversity of life that is abundant in our parishes, schools and chaplaincies.

"The Archbishop will be particularly focussed on encouraging us in our apostolic faith as together we seek to know, love, and follow Jesus Christ wherever he calls us."

The Archbishop will also meet community and business leaders across the county including in Crawley, Lewes, Brighton and Hove, Hastings, Bexhill and Chichester.

In Hastings people of all faiths and none can attend an evening event to hear the Archbishop talk about his personal journey of faith at The Hastings Centre, exploring times where his faith has been tested, followed by an opportunity for guests to ask questions.

Members of the public are also welcome to attend a Choral Evensong in Chichester Cathedral where the archbishop will give an address and attend an open reception.

Where will the Archbishop visit?

  • St John the Baptist Church, Crawley
  • Holy Trinity Church of England Secondary School, Crawley
  • Christs Hospital School, Horsham
  • The Hastings Centre, Hastings
  • St Peter’s Chruch, Brighton
  • All Saints Church, Hove
  • St Mary’s Church, Church St, Hartfield
  • Cliffe Hall, Lewes