Latest News - Diocese of Manchester

Finding Stillness in the City: A Day of Silence, Service, and Scripture

First published on: 27th March 2025

This week, clergy and lay readers from around the diocese took some time to meet together and take part in a ministerial development day titled, ‘The City is My Monastery: Contemplative Prayer and Action', led by the Revd Richard Carter. The day was structured around three aspects of faith – silence, service and scripture – which form part of the Rule of Life that Richard has established at St Martin-in-Fields, London.

Peers Support Bishop David's Private Members' Bill

First published on: 14th March 2025

The Bill aims to close the financial gap between those under 25 who have lived in care and those over 25.

Bishop David's Letter on the Future of Safeguarding Arrangements

First published on: 19th February 2025

Following last week’s meeting of General Synod, where the future of safeguarding arrangements in the Church of England was debated, Bishop David has written a letter to clergy and lay leaders to share his thoughts on the decision-making process.

The Revd Canon Dr Nicholas Bundock elected as Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway

First published on: 20th January 2025

The Revd Canon Dr Nicholas Bundock, Team Rector of St James and Emmanuel, Didsbury, has been elected as the new Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway. He will be consecrated and take up his new post later this year.

Bishop David's Epiphany Letter

First published on: 6th January 2025

Bishop David shares his message for the Feast of Epiphany, reflecting on the challenges the Church faced in 2024 and reinforcing his commitment to safeguarding. He sets out his hopes for the years ahead that centre around our four themes of Growing Younger, Developing Missional Leaders, Church Planting and Revitalisation and Parish Renewal.

Bishop David's Christmas Message 2024

First published on: 19th December 2024

This Christmas, Bishop David invites us to pause and reflect on the simple yet profound message of the angels to the shepherds in Bethlehem: "I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people." In a world often overshadowed by darkness and uncertainty, the message of Christ’s birth offers a timeless reminder of hope and light. Just as the shepherds were invited to come and witness the miracle in the most ordinary of places, Bishop David encourages us to draw near to the joy of the season, whether at home with loved ones, through community celebrations, or in the quiet reflection of Christmas services.

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.

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.’

New Director of Mission and Ministry will be The Revd Phil Cansdale

First published on: 27th September 2024

The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Prof David Walker is delighted to announce the appointment of The Revd Phil Cansdale as Manchester Diocese’s new Director of Mission and Ministry.

Family Fundraising in Failsworth

First published on: 26th September 2024

On Sunday, children and families from St John's Church in Failsworth set out on an eight mile walk in the pouring rain to raise money for the Friends of St John' Church Appeal. Despite the conditions, the walkers kept their spirits high as they raised over £2,200 toward a fund to make the church a multipurpose, accessible and social building.