We are pleased to announce two appointments to the role of Area Dean within our diocese. The Revd Anne Gilbert, currently serving as Vicar of Rochdale and Acting Area Dean, has been formally appointed as Area Dean of Rochdale, and The Venerable Richard Worsfold, currently Archdeacon of Leicester, has been appointed as full-time Area Dean of Salford and Leigh.
It was with great sorrow that we heard the news of the death of Pope Francis this morning. The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Revd Dr David Walker has expressed his condolences and paid tribute to him.
On Saturday, 15th March, Diocesan Synod met at St John's House to discuss racial justice, parish share, the Parish Giving Scheme and Growing Missional Leaders.
The Bill aims to close the financial gap between those under 25 who have lived in care and those over 25.
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.
During a debate in the House of Lords yesterday, Bishop David spoke on the importance of reflecting on the past to ensure that atrocities such as the Holocaust never happen again.
Bishop David speaks in support of care leavers, calls for funding for the Inter Faith Network, asks for assurances about ensuring aid reaches al-Ahli Hospital, and encourages the nurturing of civil society links in the 100 year partnership with Ukraine.
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 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.
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.
