Reverend Lorraine Shorten Appointed Chaplain to Bath’s New Mayor

The sound of church bells, the colour of ceremonial robes and the sight of a civic procession winding through Bath's historic streets made for a memorable day on Saturday 6th June 2026. For Revd Lorraine Shorten, Minister of Weston Free Church (Moravian) and Coronation Avenue congregations, it also marked the beginning of an important new role as Chaplain to the newly elected Mayor of Bath, Councillor Ruth Malloy.

The occasion was the Election of Mayor Ceremony, held in the magnificent setting of Bath Abbey, where centuries of civic tradition met modern public service. The day began at Bath’s Guildhall, where the Charter Trustees – the 28 councillors elected to represent the city’s wards on Bath & North East Somerset Council – gathered for robing before taking part in one of Bath’s most treasured annual traditions.

Soon afterwards, the long civic procession wound its way through the city, cheered on by crowds of onlookers. The Avon Fire & Rescue Ceremonial Drill Squad formed an impressive Guard of Honour, while the Abbey bells rang out across the city. The 93 (City of Bath) Squadron RAF Air Cadet Marching Band escorted civic dignitaries to the Abbey, and music from the City of Bath Brass Band added to the celebratory atmosphere.

Bath Abbey, famous for its fan-vaulted ceiling and rich heritage, provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony. Before the seated officials, Lorraine was invited to the Abbey lectern to lead prayers and offer words of reflection beneath the Abbey's impressive stone arches.

The ceremony saw Ruth Malloy become the 799th Mayor of Bath, a role that can trace its origins back almost 800 years to 1230. As Bath is a city, its civic leader holds the distinguished title of ‘The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Bath’. The Mayor serves as Chair of the Charter Trustees and acts as an ambassador for the city, representing Bath at civic, charitable and community events throughout the year.

For Ruth, becoming Mayor is the latest chapter in a long record of public service. A Liberal Democrat councillor for Weston Ward since 2019 and Deputy Mayor during 2024-25, she is widely respected for her commitment to community life. Her mayoral theme, ‘Community, Culture and Curiosity’, reflects her passion for local history, World Heritage issues, libraries, museums and lifelong learning. She is also well known at Weston Free Church (Moravian), where she regularly volunteers at the popular Love Weston Café.

Lorraine will support Ruth in her new duties throughout the year. The unpaid role of Mayor’s Chaplain extends far beyond ceremonial duties. Lorraine will provide spiritual guidance, say Grace at civic dinners and attend important occasions such as Remembrance Sunday. She will also serve as a bridge between the Mayor and Bath’s diverse faith communities, helping to promote understanding, inclusion and mutual respect.

Reflecting on her appointment, Lorraine said: ‘The theme of ‘Community, Culture and Curiosity’ resonates strongly with me. Community reminds us that we belong to one another, culture helps us cherish the gifts and stories that shape us, and curiosity opens our hearts and minds to new possibilities. I am honoured to support the Mayor as we seek to embody these values in the life of our city.’

As the newly elected Mayor and her Chaplain returned in procession to the Guildhall for a reception, the symbolism was unmistakable. One represented the civic leadership of a city with a proud history stretching back nearly eight centuries; the other a ministry rooted in service, compassion and faith. Together, Ruth Malloy and Revd Lorraine Shorten begin a year dedicated to strengthening community life and celebrating all that makes Bath such a remarkable city.

Br Chris Shorten

Weston Free Church (Moravian)