The City of Bath’s new Mayor has chosen a humanist celebrant to be his ‘Mayor’s Chaplain’ for his term. In appointing Bath resident Isabel Russo, former Head of Ceremonies at Humanists UK, Councillor Professor Bharat Pankhania has made Bath one of the largest cities ever to have a humanist serve this important ceremonial role.
The role of Mayor of Bath has existed since 1189, with Bharat to be the 798th Mayor. As the mayor, Bharat wishes to support and engage with all religions and all beliefs, hence his choice of a humanist chaplain.
His inauguration, formally known as the Election Ceremony, took place at Bath Abbey on Saturday. Isabel gave a humanist address welcoming those of all religions and all beliefs.
Bharat has been a Liberal Democrat Councillor for Combe Down ward since 2019. He is a visiting Professor at Marjon University and a Senior Clinical Lecturer at University of Exeter Medical School. Isabel was Head of Ceremonies at Humanists UK from 2013-20, has been a Humanist Ceremonies celebrant since 2009, and is a respected advocate for death literacy.
Councillor Prof Bharat Pankhania, Mayor Designate of the City of Bath, commented:
‘My Election Ceremony began with a significant first for Bath – a humanist celebrant. I believe in embracing people of all faiths and all beliefs. I therefore appointed a humanist to open my inauguration ceremony; I hope to reflect this inclusive spirit throughout the year.’
Isabel Russo, the Mayor Designate’s humanist chaplain, commented:
‘I welcome this opportunity to work with Bharat as his humanist chaplain, and it was an honour to take part in his Election of Mayor Ceremony on Saturday. Much of my professional life has been dedicated to helping people mark life’s most meaningful moments – with honesty, care, and depth. To now be doing that in service of the city I grew up in, alongside a Mayor who is committed to compassion and inclusion, feels both natural and extraordinary.
I look forward to supporting Bharat in building a more connected and kinder Bath, where diversity is not just respected, but truly embraced.’
Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson commented:
‘Congratulations to Bharat on his Election and to Isabel on her appointment. Bharat’s decision to appoint Isabel is groundbreaking, writing a new chapter in a post that has existed for over 800 years.’
Notes
For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 0203 675 0959.
Media are free to use this image of Isbael Russo.
Humanists UK avoids using the word ‘chaplain’ as research shows that the public perception of this term is overwhelmingly that it refers exclusively to Christians. Humanists UK prefers the phrase ‘mayor’s celebrant’. However we use the phrase ‘chaplain’ in this article because it is what the City uses in this case.
Read more about Humanist Ceremonies.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 130,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.