Posted on: 10th September 2026

Summer is cricket season, and Bishop Chris Edmondson, Yorkshire County Cricket Club’s chaplain, is a firm believer in bringing sports and Christianity together.

Bishop Chris is the club’s second chaplain, having started in 2019.

As part of Sports Chaplaincy UK, Bishop Chris spends his time supporting both the players, coaching staff, office and ground staff in different ways.

“I would describe it as being pastorally proactive and spiritually reactive,” said Bishop Chris.

“I’m a presence at the club and act as a listening ear around pastoral matters, which helps to build relationships.

“That helps me engage on more spiritual matters that people may want to talk about in the ups and downs of what’s going on.

“It’s a privilege to get to be part of people’s lives in this way.”

It has been a challenging few years for the club, particularly with the impact of the COVID pandemic on sports.

However, Bishop Chris has built up good relationships with the players and staff, as well as the club’s Supporters Association and the Yorkshire Members.     

At the club’s ground in Headingley there is a multifaith prayer room where, during County Championship matches which can be up to four days long, Bishop Chris has created  opportunities to meet with members of the public, supporting and praying with them.

The role also includes a more public-facing aspect, with Bishop Chris representing the club and speaking at the funerals of both umpire Dickie Bird and former player and coach Doug Padgett.

“I’m incredibly passionate about cricket, so I’m thrilled my role combines the sport I love with offering something back,” said Bishop Chris.

“I’m a firm believer in the power of sports chaplaincy.

“The Church has a real opportunity to engage with people who are involved in all kinds of sport and should be taking advantage of this at all levels, local, regional and national.

“It’s a real missional opportunity for us!”