Geoffrey arrived in Norwich in 1980 and was a regular attender at the Cathedral. He first started helping by clearing the Sanctuary and, after several weeks, was asked to serve.
He became a regular attender and served whenever he could, especially after he retired, when he served almost every day he was there.
Bishop Peter said: “Geoffrey was always willing and conscientious whatever role he was asked to carry out. After over 30 years serving, he finally retired at his final Mass on St Stephen’s Day 2023.
“Geoffrey is also an excellent artist and one of his sketches of the cathedral adorns Cathedral House. When not serving in the Sanctuary, Geoffrey could often be found serving in the cathedral bookshop or volunteering in the Narthex café.”
Pictured above is Geoffrey Sword with his Diocesan Medal and certificate and, below, being presented with them by Bishop Peter Collins and Cathedral Dean Fr Alan Hodgson.