The Diocese of Bristol is in a period of transition as we look ahead to the appointment of a new Bishop of Bristol. The recent pause in the appointments process was not expected. It has, however, created a moment for reflection both within the Church of England and here in the Diocese. We now look ahead with hope as work continues towards our shared mission.
During this Vacancy in See, the Diocese continues to be led by Bishop Neil, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon, who provides ongoing leadership and care for our churches and communities.
An integral moment in the life of our Diocese
The appointment of a diocesan bishop is an important moment in the life of the Church, and part of a longer journey.
In Bristol, that journey is already shaped by what we have heard over recent years from clergy, lay leaders, and our wider communities. These insights continue to guide how we understand our context and priorities.
We are holding together two realities:
- a national process that will continue in due course
- the ongoing life and ministry of the Diocese of Bristol today under Bishop Neil’s leadership
Hear from Bishop Neil
Bishop Neil continues to offer reflections and encouragement as we journey through this period together.
The most recent reflection appears first in the playlist.
Listening as part of how we discern
Listening is part of how we seek God’s guidance. It takes place through parish life, local conversations, and the relationships we share across the Diocese. At the start of the Vacancy in See, we undertook a wide-ranging consultation, and we continue to build on what has already been shared, including reflections on:
- the challenges facing our churches and communities
- the opportunities for mission and growth
- the kind of leadership needed for the years ahead
We are not starting from the beginning. Our previous work has helped to shape a clear picture of who we are and what matters most. The consultation invited individuals living, working, and worshipping in the Diocese of Bristol to participate in an online consultation survey. As well as several focus groups held with young people, and other lesser heard voices. The consultation reached over 1200 people, including over 420 young people from across the Diocese who took part in our Echo Focus listening programme.
This is set out in the Statement of Needs, a key document in the discernment process, which continues to guide our understanding of the Diocese and the priorities for future leadership:
Download the Statement of Needs
This document outlines:
- our diocesan priorities and planning
- how we support parishes and local communities
- the outworking of the ‘Transforming Church. Together’ strategy
- the qualities we will seek in the next Bishop of Bristol when the process resumes
Our prayer for the Vacancy in See
God of calling, you call shepherds to lead your people - Rachel who was the ancestor of your people, and David who was their king - Guide by your Holy Spirit all who are entrusted with discerning who you are calling to be our Bishop.
Give us a shepherd after your own heart, who will serve with humility and vision, to guide and lead us in your ways.
May this time of waiting be filled with grace, anticipation, and a renewed sense of your mission in the world. as we seek to follow Jesus, serve others and transform the communities of this diocese.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd.
Amen.
Update on the appointment of the Bishop of Bristol
Following the recent announcement regarding the withdrawal of the recent nominee, the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) has agreed a revised timetable for the appointment process:
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Shortlisting | September 2026 |
| Interviews | November 2026 |
Please continue to hold the Diocese of Bristol, and the members of the CNC, in your prayers during this time of discernment.
Looking ahead and continuing our mission
Our mission to follow Jesus, serve others and transform communities, remains at the centre of diocesan life. Across the Diocese, work continues in parishes to serve our communities, share our faith, work with schools and partners and respond to local to need with care.
As this work progresses, we will be ready to play our part when the appointment process resumes. In the meantime, the Diocese continues to move forward with clarity and purpose. We remain committed to:
- walking together through this period
- supporting one another in ministry and mission
- seeking God’s guidance in all that lies ahead
We look ahead with confidence, trusting that God is at work among us and will lead us into the next chapter.