The Most Rev John Sherrington has officially taken up his role as the tenth Archbishop of Liverpool, following a special Mass of Installation at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.

He succeeds Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP, who stepped down after 11 years of service.

The ceremony drew thousands from across the archdiocese, including Cardinal Vincent Nichols, bishops from across England and Wales, and representatives of other faiths and civic life.

Reflecting on the occasion, Archbishop John said: “The Mass of Installation was a joyous occasion. It was wonderful to see so many people from across the diocese and beyond gather together in prayer as we continue to preach Christ to the people of our time.”

He added: “I give thanks to Archbishop Malcolm who has served the archdiocese with love and generosity, and I am honoured to succeed him.”

Ordained in 1987 for the Diocese of Nottingham, Archbishop Sherrington has served as auxiliary bishop of Westminster since 2011.

He now looks forward to leading Liverpool’s historic and faith-filled archdiocese, pledging to bring “the hope and joy of Christ to all people”.