Bishop Ruth was welcomed back to the diocese at a service at Wells Cathedral's Candlemas service on Sunday, 2 February. In her sermon she thanked all those who prayed for her during her absence and reflected on her time in Coventry Diocese.
She said, "It has been a significant year or so for me, one which has taught me much about the value of relationships, the cost of ministry and the goodness of God. I hope that I continue to learn more of what that all means in the days to come."
Bishop Ruth was back at her office in the Bishop's Palace on Monday, 3 February , where she filmed a message to share with all those across the diocese.
She said, "It's lovely to be back here in Wells.
"It's been quite a year, and I've learnt a lot. I've had lots of challenges, but I've also made new friends and had lots to think about and reflect on. I am hoping that as I step back into ministry here, as Bishop of Taunton, that we'll be able to share together something of the things that have happened to you and the changes that you have seen, as well as what I can offer you from my new experiences."