People gathered to bid farewell to the Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd John Stewart Davies, on Friday 21st November. On a stormy night, people travelled from across the Diocese of St Asaph and beyond to mark his retirement with a service of Evensong and with a presentation.   Mr James Turner, Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance, paid tribute to “a considerate leader, a wonderful listener, a thoughtful and determined decision-maker. He has shown wisdom, understanding and compassion,” Mr Turner said. “He is a teacher and a man of prayer.”   The Archdeacon of Montgomery, the Venerable John Thelwell, said, “Bishop John has encouraged the diocese to move forward in exciting and courageous ways,” and paid tribute to the Bishop’s wife, Mrs Joan Davies, “a tremendous support and soul mate.”   In his response, Bishop John said, “I want to express my deep appreciation to you all for the generosity of welcome I have received throughout the diocese and for the companionship and support you have shown.”   Bishop John is to retire from his position as the 75th Bishop of St Asaph at Christmas and this was one of his last public engagements.