The Archbishop of Wales has led tributes to a retired Welsh bishop who died last week.
The Rt Revd Clifford Wright, Bishop of Monmouth from 1986-91, died on Friday aged 91.
Bishop Clifford spent most of his ministry in the Diocese of Monmouth following his ordination in 1945. He served in Bedwas, Newport, Blaenavon, Pontypool, and Ebbw Vale before being appointed as an archdeacon and then elected as Bishop. However, he also spent 17 years as a chaplain with the Royal Navy from 1951-68.
The Archbishop, Dr Barry Morgan, said:
“Bishop Clifford had a pastoral heart and a good sense of humour. He was also a very able administrator, managing the diocese well and overseeing the purchase of the diocesan office and resources centre.
“He affirmed the work of Sunday Schools while the value of Church day-schools was asserted by the opening of two voluntary aided schools.”
The current Bishop of Monmouth, Richard Pain, said:
“I am very sad to learn of the death of Bishop Clifford. He served the Diocese admirably as an incumbent, Archdeacon and Bishop. Bishop Clifford had a great love for the Diocese and his wise counsel was appreciated across the Province of Wales.
“Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Joyce and the family.”
Bishop Clifford graduated from the University of Wales and trained for ministry at St Stephen’s House, Oxford. He served as a curate in Bedwas, Newport and Liverpool before becoming a chaplain for the Royal Navy. In 1968 he was appointed vicar of Blaenavon, in 1973, Rural Dean of Pontypool and in 1974, Team Rector of Ebbw Vale. He was promoted to Archdeacon in 1977 and elected Bishop in 1986.
The funeral of Bishop Clifford will take place at 11.30 am on Monday 3 March at St John Baptist, Risca Road, Newport.
