Little Somerford Parish celebrates Baptisms in local river
First published 7th November 2025Little Somerford Parish celebrates Baptisms in local river
News
Diocese appoints new Chaplain with the Deaf Community
First published 3rd November 2025The Acting Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, is delighted to announce the appointment of the Revd Esther Rose as 0.5 Chaplain with the Deaf Community in the Diocese of Bristol.
‘Kindness and Connection echoing beyond Church walls’ at Swindon Lunch Club
First published 31st October 2025The second week of October marked the one-year anniversary of Christ Church Swindon’s Lunch Club, a weekly gathering which provides a space for community and friendship, particularly for the lonely and vulnerable.
Queen Camilla visits The Poppy Project in Corsham
First published 30th October 2025On 28 October, Queen Camilla visited The Poppy Project in Corsham, attaching the final knitted poppy to a cascade of thousands draping down the tower of St Bartholomew's Church.
St Mary’s Church Henbury unveils memorial plaque in memory of enslaved lives
First published 29th October 2025On Sunday, 26th October, St Mary’s Henbury held a special service to mark the unveiling and blessing of a commemorative plaque struck in memory of John Isaac and the many thousands of others who were enslaved by the Daniel family in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Bristol Churches host sustainability focused community events
First published 27th October 2025In Summer and Autumn, two Churches in the Diocese hosted creative, climate-focused community events.To help others do the same, Kit Connell, Diocesan Environment & Sustainability Manager, has created a simple action plan designed to guide other Churches in planning their own events.
Licensed Lay Minister Hoodies sparking ministry opportunities
First published 24th October 2025Although one of the strengths of lay ministry is that ministers are part of their Church congregation, and therefore not always identifiable as a trained minister, sometimes it is helpful for LLMs to be recognisable. LLM hoodies and polo shirts fill this gap for informal occasions where it is helpful for LLMs to be seen as a minister who is trained and trusted to represent the Church.
The Revd Sue Gent licensed as Parish Priest in the benefice of Yate
First published 20th October 2025On Sunday 5 October 2025, the Reverend Sue Gent was licensed as Parish Priest in the benefice of Yate. Sue was licensed by the Venerable Christopher Bryan, Archdeacon of Malmesbury, at St Mary’s Church, Yate, during a service of Holy Communion.
Diocese celebrates Lay Ministry as five new Lay Ministers licensed in Cathedral
First published 13th October 2025On Saturday, 11 October, at Bristol Cathedral, the Diocese celebrated the admission and licensing of five volunteers, all from different backgrounds, licensing them as Lay Ministers as they step into various roles of leadership and service in their local parishes.
Diocese of Bristol stands with Jewish communities on National Day of Solidarity
First published 9th October 2025Today, Thursday 9 October, the Diocese of Bristol joins the coalition of organisations, including the Together Coalition, the Church of England, the Scouts, Hope not Hate, the Women’s Institute and the British Muslim Trust, who are joining together in a national day of unity and solidarity following last week’s attack at the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester.
Three Crowns Newsletter: Harvest Edition
First published 8th October 2025The Three Crowns Newsletter is a triannual parish news-sheet from the Diocese of Bristol, designed to celebrate the life, faith, and everyday witness of our churches and communities. In the Harvest edition we hear about the Athelstan Pilgrim way, St Margaret’s Church Stratton's first beer festival and hear the latest news on the process of selecting the next Bishop of Bristol.
Diocese commissions first Anna Chaplains on UN Day of Older People
First published 7th October 2025Wednesday, 1 October, marked the United Nations' International Day of Older People. Fittingly, this was also the day when the Diocese’s first group of ‘Anna Chaplains’ - who focus on supporting older people - were commissioned and celebrated in Bristol Cathedral.
Wiltshire Farmer: ‘Everything that sustains us is a gift from God’
First published 7th October 2025This Harvest season, we sat down with James, a Farmer from Wiltshire, to hear about how he experiences God through his work and to learn more about the Harvest Festival.
Diocese of Bristol welcomes appointment of first female Archbishop of Canterbury
First published 3rd October 2025Bishop of Swindon and Acting Bishop of Bristol, The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, and Dean of Bristol Cathedral, The Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, have warmly welcomed the announcement of the new Archbishop of Canterbury, following the resignation of the Most Revd Justin Welby, announced in November last year.
Bishop of Manchester statement following attack on Heaton Park Synagogue
First published 2nd October 2025The Right Reverend Dr David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, has issued this statement in response to the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue this morning.
Parish Officers collaborate and connect at Church Teams Day
First published 1st October 2025On Saturday 28 September, Parish Officers from across the Diocese gathered at Pattern Church, Swindon, for a day of community, workshops, worship and an opportunity to speak and connect with members of the diocesan support staff.
Bishop Neil’s statement on hostility towards asylum seekers and minority groups
First published 30th September 2025Bishop Neil has released a statement on the rise in hostility towards asylum seekers and racially minoritised groups.
September Licensing's: Curates begin new ministry seasons
First published 29th September 2025In September, the Diocese of Bristol celebrated the licensing of two Curates as they step into new roles of leadership and service.
New Ministry Experience Scheme cohort begin year of exploring vocations
First published 26th September 2025The 2025–2026 cohort have begun their journey on the Ministry Experience Scheme, a formative opportunity to discern whether God may be calling them to ministry within the Church of England.
Bristol Cathedral rededicates restored organ
First published 25th September 2025Following the completion of a 19-month restoration, the organ of Bristol Cathedral has been rededicated and blessed as an instrument of worship.
Statement of Needs launched ahead of Bishop appointment process
First published 19th September 2025The Diocese of Bristol Statement of Needs has been launched today. The prayerfully discerned document outlines the vision, priorities, and aspirations for the next Bishop of Bristol.
Representatives for Crown Nominations Commission announced
First published 19th September 2025We are pleased to announce the appointment of six representatives to the Crown Nomination Committee (CNC), who will play a vital role in the selection of the next Bishop of Bristol.
Bishop Neil speaks to Christ Church Downend on Education Sunday
First published 18th September 2025On Sunday, 14 September, Bishop Neil visited Christ Church Downend, where he spoke about what it means for there to be abundant life in our schools. We also interviewed Revd Dan Watts, Vicar of Christ Church, to learn about the Church’s engagement with education in its parish.
Cinnamon Social Action Audit - launching on 15th September!
First published 10th September 2025We’re excited to launch a Diocesan-wide Parish Social Action Audit in partnership with the Cinnamon Network. This is your opportunity to highlight the incredible ways your parish supports your local community - from food banks and warm spaces to lunch clubs and befriending schemes. The audit runs from 15th September to 31st October, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Safe Spaces Through Young Eyes: New report from Youth Echo
First published 8th September 2025The Diocese is proud to announce the release of the Youth Echo: Safe Spaces report – a thought-provoking collection of insights from 108 young people aged 9–18, gathered through listening groups across the region.
Online Faculty System replacement postponed to early 2026
First published 5th September 2025We have been informed by the National Church that the new Building Management Portal that will replace the Online Faculty System is being postponed until early 2026.
A Beautiful Coda: Bishop Viv’s Calling
First published 2nd September 2025On 1st September 2025, the Rt Revd Vivienne Faull retired as Bishop of Bristol following her announcement in February this year. Her ministry has been celebrated by individuals from across the country.
North Wiltshire Pilgrimage Route set for Launch of New Section
First published 1st September 2025On Saturday, 6 September, the final section of the family-friendly Athelstan Pilgrim Way will be launched.
Archbishop of York's statement on Gaza
First published 23rd July 2025The Archbishop of York has issued a statement on the situation in Gaza.
June Licensings: Curates embrace new seasons of ministry
First published 18th July 2025Throughout June, the Diocese celebrated the licensing of several curates stepping into new roles of leadership and service
Bishop Viv talks in the House of Lords on the Strategic Defence Review
First published 18th July 2025On 18 July 2025, Bishop Viv talks in the House of Lords on the Strategic Defence Review
Bishop Viv honoured in final General Synod as Archbishop of York pays tribute
First published 16th July 2025The General Synod met from 11-15 July 2025. Bishop Viv receieved a farewell of gratitude from the Archbishop of York, as she approaches her retirement in September.
Echo Focus: Search for the new Bishop of Bristol embraces inclusive listening
First published 11th July 2025Young people and learning disabled individuals across the Diocese of Bristol are helping shape the selection of the next Bishop through creative, inclusive listening sessions called Echo Focus
The Revd Anthea Anthony RIP
First published 3rd July 2025It is with deep sadness that the Diocese of Bristol announces the death of the Revd Anthea Annaleze Anthony on 18 June, following a long illness..
Petertide Priest Ordination Candidates 2025
First published 24th June 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce the ordination of ten new Priests on Saturday 5th July 2025
Petertide Deacon Ordination Candidates 2025
First published 24th June 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce the ordination of eight new Deacons on Sunday 6th July 2025
Christian Aid Week 2025: Amazing Efforts Across the Diocese of Bristol
First published 20th June 2025Churches across the Diocese raised thousands through creative events, showing incredible generosity and community spirit in support of global neighbours.
Response from the Diocese of Bristol to National Church Investment Announcement
First published 13th June 2025The Diocese of Bristol warmly welcomes the Church Commissioners’ announcement of a significant £1.6bn investment over the next three years.
Help shape the future of the Diocese of Bristol – consultation survey open now!
First published 5th June 2025Your voice matters - have your say in the future of the Diocese of Bristol by taking part in our consultation for selecting the next Bishop of Bristol. The Bishop of Bristol, Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, will retire on 1st September 2025. As we prepare for this significant transition, we are inviting everyone across the Diocese of Bristol to take part in a wide-reaching consultation to help shape the future leadership of our church.
Archbishop of York's statement on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza - June 2025
First published 5th June 2025The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has released a statement on the further bombing of the Anglican-run Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza
House of Bishops statement on Gaza - May 2025
First published 23rd May 2025The House of Bishops, which has been meeting in York this week, has issued a statement on the situation in Gaza.
Eric Aidoo to be commissioned as Honorary Ecumenical Canon at Bristol Cathedral
First published 22nd May 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that the Revd Eric Aidoo, Pastor of City Road Baptist Church, Bristol, will be commissioned as an Honorary Ecumenical Canon during a service at Bristol Cathedral on Sunday 8 June 2025.
Congratulations to the winners of 2025 Bristol DAC Awards
First published 20th May 2025This year, six parishes have been recognised with DAC Awards for church projects of exceptional quality and impact.
Bristol Churches awarded grants in National Conservation Scheme
First published 19th May 2025Four churches in the Diocese of Bristol have been awarded prestigious grants as part of the Church of England’s 2024 conservation scheme.
Senior faith leaders urge Prime Minister to rethink migration rhetoric
First published 16th May 2025Bishop Viv with fourteen Church of England bishops has joined Jewish, Muslim, and other Christian leaders in urging the Prime Minister to reconsider migration rhetoric.
Bristol voices shine in national Vocations Sunday film
First published 12th May 2025Revd Mel and Iain, from our diocese, have been featured in a national Church of England film for Vocations Sunday, sharing their powerful stories of discovering God’s calling.
Statement on the election of Pope Leo XIV
First published 9th May 2025Following the election of Pope Leo XIV on Thursday 8 May, Bishops of Bristol and Swindon offer a warm welcome and heartfelt prayers for his ministry ahead.
Churches to mark 80th Anniversary of VE Day
First published 6th May 2025Churches across England will participate in a series of commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on Thursday, 8th May 2025.
Three Crowns News: A Fresh Way to Share Your Stories
First published 30th April 2025We're delighted to launch Three Crowns News, a brand new quarterly parish news-sheet from the Diocese of Bristol, designed to celebrate the life, faith, and everyday witness of our churches and communities.
Mission in a Strange New World
First published 28th April 2025Where are we? Where are we heading? Understanding and Responding to a Post-Christendom/Christian Culture
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick confirmed as Acting Bishop of Bristol
First published 25th April 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce the appointment of the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Suffragan Bishop of Swindon, as Acting Diocesan Bishop of this diocese with effect from 2 September 2025.
Statement on the death of Pope Francis
First published 21st April 2025Following the news of Pope Francis' death on this Easter Morning, aged 88, Bishops of Bristol and Swindon paid tribute to him with the following statement.
Gaza: House of Bishops statement on attack on Al Ahli Hospital
First published 16th April 2025Church of England's House of Bishops issues statement speaking of sharing "grief, sorrow and outrage" with Palestinian brothers and sisters over Palm Sunday attack on Anglican-run hospital.
Holy Week Devotional: Two Processions
First published 15th April 2025This Holy Week Devotional, based on the Palm Sunday sermon by Bishop Neil, invites us to reflect on the contrasting paths of power and peace and to follow Christ through the key moments leading to his death and resurrection.
Open letter from women of faith on Assisted Dying
First published 7th April 2025Bishop Viv joins women leaders across faiths to voice safeguarding concerns over the current legislation for Assisted Dying.
Modern Slavery Act ‘must keep pace with changes’, Bishop Viv tells Lords
First published 3rd April 2025On Friday, 28 March, Bishop Viv spoke in the House of Lords during the debate on the report from the Modern Slavery Act 2015 Committee - The Modern Slavery Act 2015: becoming world-leading again.
Bishop Viv's Diocesan Synod Presidential Address, 22 March 2025
First published 24th March 2025Bishop Viv reflected on Lent, the proposal to introduce a festival of God the Creator and commemorated the 21 Coptic Martyrs.
Bishop Viv speaks in the House of Lords on the Campus Antisemitism in Britain
First published 14th March 2025On Wednesday, 12 March, Bishop Viv raised an oral question in the House of Lords during the debate on the Campus Antisemitism in Britain 2022–2024 report, focusing on collaborative work of multifaith chaplaincies with university authorities.
Bishop Viv speaks in the House of Lords on the UK Poverty 2025 report
First published 11th March 2025On Monday, 10 March, Bishop Viv raised an oral question in the House of Lords during the debate on the UK Poverty 2025 report, focusing particularly on in-work poverty.
Sir Robert Buckland KBE appointed Third Church Estates Commissioner
First published 6th March 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted by the appointment of Sir Robert Buckland KBE as the next Third Church Estates Commissioner.
Bishop Bosco to be commissioned as Ecumenical Canon at Bristol Cathedral
First published 5th March 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that the Rt Revd Bosco MacDonald, Bishop of Clifton, will be commissioned as an Honorary Ecumenical Canon during a service at Bristol Cathedral on 9 March 2025.
Learning Assistant and Police Officer licensed in Frenchay and Stapleton
First published 25th February 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to share that the Revd Ruth Harding and the Revd Anton Campbell were licensed as Associate Priest in the benefice of Frenchay and Stapleton and as Interim Priest at Frenchay respectively.
Three New Area Deans Commissioned in the Diocese of Bristol
First published 19th February 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to share that the Revd Kat Campion-Spall, the Revd Marc Terry and the Revd Sarah Hancox were commissioned as Area Deans for Bristol City, Chippenham and Bristol South respectively.
Belonging and Togetherness: Grand Iftar at Bristol Cathedral
First published 18th February 2025Bristol Cathedral, Muslims4Bristol and Bridges for Communities are delighted to be working together to bring a Grand Iftar to Bristol City Centre for the third year in a row.
Bishop’s Message on General Synod Safeguarding Changes
First published 13th February 2025A message from the Bishop of Bristol regarding the Future of Safeguarding in the Church of England.
Take part in the consultation for the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
First published 7th February 2025The Church of England’s nomination process for the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury is now open until 28 March 2025.
Bishop of Bristol announces her retirement
First published 6th February 2025The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, by kind permission of the King, will retire as Bishop of Bristol on 1 September 2025. The Archbishop of York granted Bishop Viv permission to remain in office after her 70th birthday in May, to ordain new Deacons and Priests in the summer.
New Honorary Canons installed at Bristol Cathedral
First published 28th January 2025The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that Claire Garrett, Charles Wyld, Revd David Moore, Revd Dr Simon Taylor, Revd Richard McKay, Revd Dr Marcus Torchon and Rt Revd Raymond Veira will be installed as new Honorary Cathedral Canons during a service at Bristol Cathedral on 2 February 2025.
Marking Holocaust Memorial Day - 2025
First published 24th January 2025On 27 January 2025, Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) will mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, as we remember the six million Jewish people murdered in the Holocaust.
Comment on the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme announcement
First published 22nd January 2025The Bishop of Bristol, Viv Faull, and the Bishop of Ramsbury, Andrew Rumsey, who are the Church of England's joint lead bishops on church buildings, have issued the following comment in response to the written statement today from Sir Chris Bryant, Heritage Minister, on the Listed Places of Worship grants scheme:
Improved connection with Diocesan Support through new telephone and CRM systems
First published 20th January 2025Parishes can now enjoy a smoother and more efficient calling experience, as a result of the recent transition to a Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) telephone system at Hillside House.
Revd Sally Robertson re-appointed as Area Dean for Swindon
First published 9th January 2025The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon is pleased to announce that the Revd Sally Robertson was re-appointed as the Area Dean for Swindon within the Archdeaconry of Malmesbury.
Our Rhythm of Life programme has launched - join today
First published 7th January 2025Join our Rhythm of Life today
Archbishop of York's Epiphany letter to clergy and lay ministers
First published 6th January 2025Archbishop Stephen has written to all clergy and lay ministers in the Church of England today, on the Feast of Epiphany.
Rhythm of Life launching soon
First published 3rd January 2025Update on Rhythm of Life
A Christmas message from the Bishops of Bristol and Swindon
First published 24th December 2024As we celebrate Christmas, the Right Reverend Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol and the Right Reverend Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon, reflect on the year that has passed and their hopes for this Christmas season.
Bishop Viv's statement regarding BBC Radio 4 File on Four - David Tudor
First published 17th December 2024A statement from the Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, regarding the BBC Radio 4 File on Four - David Tudor documentary
Current issue on our website
First published 9th December 2024Current issue on our website with accordions/drop-down menus
Statement regarding the fire at St Michael's Primary School
First published 9th December 2024The Diocese of Bristol is aware that on Sunday 8 December at approximately 9.30pm, a fire broke out at St Michael’s Primary School in Stoke Gifford. We are deeply grateful to Avon Fire and Rescue Service for their prompt response in extinguishing the fire and ensuring that no one was injured.
Bishop Viv speaks in the House of Lords on Communities during Periods of Change
First published 9th December 2024Bishop Viv addressed the House of Lords on Friday 6 December as part of the debate on Social Cohesion and Community during Periods of Change.
10th Anniversary - Joint Declaration of Religious Leaders against Modern Slavery
First published 2nd December 2024Ten years ago, Catholic, Anglican, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish and Orthodox religious leaders gathered to sign the Joint Declaration of Religious Leaders Against Modern Slavery, a public statement of their commitment to work together in spiritual and practical action to eradicate modern slavery and restore dignity and freedom to its victims.
Bishop Viv's Diocesan Synod Presidential Address, 23 November 2024
First published 2nd December 2024Bishop Viv spoke about the importance of safe churches to ministry and reflected on the Anglican Communion Safe Church Commission conference and the Makin Report.
Marking Safeguarding Sunday 2024
First published 15th November 2024On 17 November, churches across the Diocese of Bristol will mark Safeguarding Sunday, a day to reflect on safeguarding’s importance, remember survivors of abuse, and recommit to creating safe and welcoming communities.
Bishop Viv's statement on the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury
First published 13th November 2024A statement from the Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, on the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury
Statement from the Archbishop of Canterbury
First published 12th November 2024Read the statement from the Archbishop of Canterbury regarding his resignation
Bishop Viv shares her response to the Makin Report
First published 8th November 2024The independent review by Keith Makin into how the Church of England handled allegations of serious abuse by the late John Smyth has been published. The Diocese of Bristol acknowledges the profound distress these findings may have, especially for survivors of abuse.
Vicarage gains New Heat Pump
First published 7th November 2024A vicarage in a deprived area of Bristol has been transformed by the installation of solar panels, insulation and an air source heat pump.
A Circular Food Initiative Making a Big Impact
First published 5th November 2024BS3 Jammin’ at St Paul’s Church, Southville, Bristol, is a community event transforming surplus food into preserves and dishes to reduce waste and boost food security.
Mental Health and Belonging in our Churches - 2024 Conference
First published 30th October 2024All are welcome to our Mental Health and Belonging in our Churches Conference happening on Saturday 16th of November at Holy Trinity Church in Bradley Stoke, Bristol!
Anti-Slavery Day 2024
First published 18th October 2024On Anti-Slavery Day 2024, the Bristol Diocese stands in solidarity with the 50 million men, women, and children trapped in modern slavery.
Anna Chaplaincy launches
First published 11th October 2024We are launching Anna Chaplaincy - helping you equip your church for the effective ministry and spiritual well-being of older people
Our Trail of Remembrance launches
First published 9th October 2024Trail of Remembrance: Uncovering Bristol’s Connection to Transatlantic Chattel Slavery
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New memorial honouring John Isaac to be unveiled at Bristol Cathedral
First published 8th October 2024Bristol Cathedral will unveil a new memorial honouring John Isaac, a man born into slavery, marking a significant step towards acknowledging and addressing the legacy of slavery and institutional racism within the Church.
Revd Canon Rebecca Stevens announced as Adviser for Ordinands and Vocations
First published 30th September 2024The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol and the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon are delighted to announce that the Revd Canon Rebecca Stevens has been appointed as the next Adviser for Ordinands and Vocations, fulfilling the role of the Diocesan Director of Ordinands
New Archdeacon of Bristol Collation and Installation
First published 6th September 2024Bristol Cathedral hosted a wonderful celebration at Choral Evensong on Sunday 1st September 2024 at which the Venerable Becky Waring was collated as the Archdeacon of Malmesbury by Bishop Viv and installed as an Honorary Canon of the Cathedral by the Dean, the Very Revd Mandy Ford.
Join us for Creating Pathways into Faith
First published 2nd September 2024Join us for the last event in our Growing Faith. Together series - Creating Pathways into Faith on 14 September 2024
Join us for our Church Teams Day - 28 September 2024
First published 16th August 2024Join us for our Church Teams Day - 28 September 2024
Revd James Cannan announced as the new Vicar of St James Mangotsfield
First published 12th August 2024The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that Revd James Cannan has been appointed as the next Vicar of St James Mangotsfield.
Interfaith statement regarding the extremist actions in Bristol
First published 8th August 2024Representatives of diverse faith and belief communities, as well as secular organisations from across Bristol came together at Bristol Cathedral on 8 August to deliver a statement recent extremist activities that took place in Bristol and across the country.
St Mary Redcliffe statement regarding the recent extremist actions
First published 6th August 2024The Diocese of Bristol is shocked and saddened by the violence and harassment that took place in Bristol and the rest of the UK over the last few days. We strongly condemn the actions of extremist groups on 3rd August at Castle Park and outside the Mercure Hotel, near St Mary Redcliffe.
