Strengthening Our Partnership with Uppsala Diocese
The Llandaff Diocesan link with the Diocese of Uppsala in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden began in 2006 and has continued to flourish in friendship, learning, and shared mission.
On Sunday at Llandaff Cathedral, Bishop Mary, Michael Lawley (Chair of the Llandaff Diocesan Board of Finance), Eva Christina Nilsson (Upsalla Diocesan Director) and Kerstin Eskhult (a Member of the Upsalla Diocesan Assembly) signed a new Partnership Agreement, renewing our commitment to walk together for the next five years.
Over the years, a number of exchange visits have taken place, including visits by diocesan officers and the formation of parish‑to‑parish links. With the introduction of Ministry Areas in Llandaff and Pastorates in Uppsala, our structures now mirror one another more closely, creating fresh opportunities for collaboration.
Exchange visits remain at the heart of the partnership. Visitors cover their travel costs, while hosts provide hospitality during their stay. In Ministry Area exchanges, visitors stay with church members, and hosts provide local transport—an important consideration when exploring new links. These practical arrangements help ensure that the focus remains on relationship‑building, shared learning, and mutual encouragement.
Canon Martyn reflects on the most recent visit:
“During their visit, our five visitors engaged with many people across Llandaff Diocese. On Sunday afternoon at Cathedral Evensong our Partnership Agreement was renewed for another five years.
Over the years we have learned so much from each other through Ministry Area links, including the links between our cathedrals, with visits from church members, ordinands, and diocesan officers.
We are also looking to focus on specific areas such as how we engage with children and confirmation candidates as well as the development of lay ministries. Although there were many places that our friends visited perhaps the most valuable time was spent simply talking to people and learning from each other’s experiences.
I believe that the link is a great blessing, founded on mutual hospitality, friendship, and prayer.”
Many close friendships have been forged through this partnership, and both dioceses continue to receive rich blessings from one another. As Scripture reminds us, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)—a verse that beautifully captures the spirit of this link.
If you would like more information about forming a link with a parish in Uppsala, please contact Canon Martyn Davies, Llandaff Diocesan World Partnerships Officer and East Vale Ministry Area Leader.