The Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne, is indeed retiring. This news was announced in September 2022, revealing that she would be stepping down later that year. As someone who has been following her career and the work she has done, I must admit that this announcement came as a surprise to me.
To commemorate her years of service and bid her farewell, a special service was held at Llandaff Cathedral on 30 November 2022. It was a bittersweet occasion, filled with gratitude for her contributions and sadness over her departure. The service provided an opportunity for people from all walks of life to come together and express their appreciation for Osborne’s leadership and dedication.
After the farewell service, Osborne officially retired on 31 December 2022. This marked the end of an era for the Diocese of Llandaff and the wider community. Throughout her tenure, Osborne has been known for her commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and progressive values. She has been a vocal advocate for equality, often speaking out on issues such as gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.
One aspect of Osborne’s leadership that stood out to me was her emphasis on environmental stewardship. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I greatly appreciated her efforts to promote sustainable practices within the Church and beyond. Under her guidance, the Diocese of Llandaff initiated various environmental initiatives, including the creation of community gardens and the promotion of eco-friendly landscaping techniques.
I had the privilege of attending a talk by Osborne on the importance of incorporating nature into our urban environments. She spoke passionately about the benefits of green spaces and the need to create more accessible gardens and parks for everyone to enjoy. Her words resonated with me, as I have always believed in the power of nature to heal and inspire.
Reflecting on Osborne’s retirement, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for her contributions to both the Church and the wider community. Her leadership has left a lasting impact, and her commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability serves as an inspiration to us all.
As we bid farewell to June Osborne, I am reminded of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of those who have dedicated their lives to making a positive difference in the world. While her retirement marks the end of an era, I have no doubt that her legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations.
