Latest News - Diocese of Manchester

A Service of Unity for Methodists and Anglicans

First published on: 6th November 2024

On Friday, the Church of England and the Methodist Church celebrated the 21st anniversary of the Anglican-Methodist Covenant, which was signed in 2003 in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II, aimed to strengthen ties and promote unity between the two Churches. The Covenant recognises how much the two churches - which separated in the 1790s, after the death of John Wesley - have in common and commits them to removing further obstacles towards unity.

Safeguarding Sunday: Let's Talk About It

First published on: 6th November 2024

This November 17, we're inviting all churches in the diocese to come together and mark Safeguarding Sunday. It’s a special opportunity for us as a community to pause, reflect, and have a conversation about creating safer spaces for everyone in our churches.

Bishop Matthew visits Lahore Diocese

First published on: 28th October 2024

Bishop Matthew recently led a delegation from Manchester Diocese on a trip to our partner link diocese of Lahore.

Reflections for Black History Month

First published on: 28th October 2024

Throughout October members of the Transforming Prayer Community have been sharing reflections for Black History Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and reflecting upon the immeasurable contributions of Black people to British culture, history and society.

Diocesan Synod Gathers for the First Meeting of the New Triennium

First published on: 24th October 2024

Last Saturday's Diocesan Synod marked the first meeting of the new triennium, welcoming new members alongside those who have served for many years.

Thank You Canon Phillip Blinkhorn: Reflections on His Time as Chair of the DBF

First published on: 24th October 2024

Last week marked the conclusion of Canon Phillip Blinkhorn's tenure as Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance. Phillip has dedicated nearly five decades to serving the diocese, first joining Diocesan Synod in 1976 before becoming Chair of the DBF in 2012. At Synod, Bishop David presented Phillip with a gift as a token of the diocese’s appreciation.

Clergy and Readers Gather for Study Days

First published on: 17th October 2024

On Sunday and Monday, over 300 members of clergy and readers gathered at Holy Family Failsworth and Manchester Cathedral On Sunday and Monday, over 300 members of clergy and readers gathered at Holy Family Failsworth and Manchester Cathedral for a day to study the Gospel of St Luke.

Bolton Deanery holds first Lay Leadership Conference

First published on: 16th October 2024

On Saturday, lay leaders from Bolton Deanery gathered for the very first Deanery Lay Leadership Conference. Readers, ALMs, Churchwardens, Children and Youth Leaders, Treasurers and PCC members came together for a morning of worship, fellowship and leadership training.

Annual Schools Conference meets at Manchester Monastery

First published on: 16th October 2024

Our annual schools conference, held in Manchester Monastery on Friday, was a great success with over 180 school and church leaders attending. The day was entitled ‘Distinctly Christian in a Changing World.’

Authorised Lay Minsters Celebrated at Manchester Cathedral

First published on: 30th September 2024

Last weekend, over 90 Authorised Lay Ministers were authorised and commissioned at Manchester Cathedral. This included 40 new ALMs who have just finished their training and 50 ALMs who were being re-authorised for ministry in their parish. Between them they represented ten areas of ministry and many there we also marking ten years of service!