On Saturday, 10 October, at Bristol Cathedral, the Diocese of Bristol celebrated the admission and licensing of eight volunteers, all from different backgrounds, licensing them as Lay Ministers as they step into various roles of leadership and service in their local parishes.
Scott Gough spent the first 36 years of his life as a sceptic. A journey sparked by Clips from 'The Chosen', a drama about the life of Jesus, appearing on his TikTok feed led to his coming to faith and earlier this year he was baptised in his local church. This is his reflection on his journey after baptism.
This year, to help us connect with Harvest and how it points to Christ, we spoke with three people whose work is tied to the land to hear their reflections on this season.
The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that the Revd Ross Pilliner has been licensed as Priest in Charge of the Gauzebrook Benefice.
On Thursday, 24 September, Manchester-based urban mission resource hub Proximity collaborated with the Diocesan Priority Communities Network to host an evening of worship, community, curry, and encouragement for those serving in urban or deprived contexts.
On Sunday, 27 September, four individuals were installed as Honorary Canons at Bristol Cathedral during Choral Evensong. They join both lay and ordained people as members of the College of Canons, which is a body appointed by the Bishop to play a part in the governance of the Cathedral and to act as ‘ambassadors’ in forging links with the wider Diocese and its churches.
To help protect their special character, from 1 November 2026 new Churchyard Regulations will apply across the Diocese. A template for the regulations has been produced nationally, and it is hoped that this approach will provide more uniformity and clarity across the Church of England.
On Tuesday, 22 September, churches in Chippenham came together for a special service to celebrate the launch of the new Chippenham Mission area. The service included the blessing of the river Avon and ended with the signing of the Mission Area Covenant, produced by both clergy and lay church members.
Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is new UK legislation intended to improve public safety and preparedness in the event of a terrorist incident.
The Hazelnut Network is a global community of Eco-Communities, launched in May 2024 out of Hazelnut Community Farm, a church that meets in a community garden in Bristol. Communities that are part of the Network have access to resources and plans for land-based gatherings, alongside regular online training events.
On Saturday, 4 September, the Diocesan Volunteering team, alongside experienced Parish Finance officers Chris Bradley and Jackie Jones, hosted a conference to support and equip Treasurers, Bookkeepers, and those with financial responsibility in their parishes.
Each October, Church Action on Poverty holds Church Action on Poverty Sunday. This year, the day falls on Sunday, 28 October and the theme is Food, Faith and Fellowship.
Scott Gough's story of finding faith after clips of the TV series 'The Chosen' kept appearing in his TikTok feed.
Each year, from 1 September to 4 October, the Church of England marks Creationtide, or the 'Season of Creation'. During the period, churches are encouraged to celebrate the work of Christ in creating all things, alongside paying special attention to our shared responsibility for the Earth and everything that lives in it.
Christ Church in Old Town, Swindon, is inviting the public to step back in time and discover the stories of Swindon through flowers at Working Lives in Bloom – A Flower Festival and Heritage Open Day on Saturday 19 September.
Churches are being invited to use prayers for times of extreme weather set out in a newly expanded Church of England service book, following the UK's hottest summer on record.
BS3 Jammin’ is an annual weekend event for the BS3 community to donate their surplus locally grown foods to be cooked, pressed or preserved, to reduce food waste and raise money for the BS3 Community Food Bank.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that Revd Caroline Buckland has been licensed as Chaplain to Katherine House & Griffiths House, a care home part of the Cote Charity in Westbury-on-Trym.
It is with sadness that the Diocese of Bristol shares the news of the death of Bishop Barry Rogerson, Bishop of Bristol 1985-2002, on Thursday 20 August 2026, aged 90.
Christ Church Downend has transformed its parish hall heating system by replacing ageing gas boilers with eco-friendly air-to-air heat pumps. Supported by grant funding, the project advances the church’s Net Zero commitment while maintaining cost-neutral operation. The new system provides efficient heating, cooling, lower energy costs, and improved environmental sustainability
The Church of England is introducing the Building Management Portal, a new national digital system for managing applications relating to works on churches, their contents, and churchyards, with a planned release date of 6 October 2026.
Each year, Housing Justice holds Homelessness Sunday on the Sunday before World Homeless Day. This year, Homelessness Sunday falls on 4th October, and the theme is ‘Community Cohesion’.
On Sunday, 6 September, Christ Church Swindon will host the Church of England's national online service. The pre-recorded service will be broadcast on the CofE's social media channels as well as on YouTube and will include the special liturgy and prayers produced for the brand-new feast day.
On Tuesday, 11 August, Bishop Neil visited the Swindon Night Shelter and Haven Day Centre, a support hub providing a sanctuary for individuals facing homelessness or vulnerability in Swindon.
From Wednesday 4 to Friday 6 November, Leadership College London and the London institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC) will be hosting a 'Distinctive Leadership Course' at Christ Church, Clifton.
On Saturday, 7 August, the Bristol branch of the Mothers’ Union celebrated the charity's 150th Birthday during a special service at Bristol Cathedral. The service, attended by around 100 people, including many past and current members of the Bristol group, was a celebration of the charity's mission and achievements.
Between 2-12 September, St Gregory the Great Church in Horfield will be hosting the ‘Turin Shroud Exhibition’, a life-size replica of what some believe to be the burial shroud used to wrap the body of Jesus after the Crucifixion.
For the past three summers, the Diocese has hosted a series of 'Art in Church' evenings, exploring how to enjoy the art we have in churches, understand it better, and connect it to God and our faith. This year's gatherings explored three creations, each with its own character and story to tell. Around 100 people attended the evenings to explore the role of art in faith.
Churches across England are invited to apply for the Digital Growth Programme 2026, a national initiative designed to equip churches with the digital, strategic and communications skills needed to make the most of opportunities during Advent and Christmas, and beyond.
Recently, several churches were recognised for their outstanding achievements in transforming church grounds for nature and wildlife.
On Saturday, 8 August, the Bristol branch of the Mothers Union will celebrate the charity's 150th Birthday during a special service at Bristol Cathedral.
The group is celebrating 35 years of ministry and presence in Bristol this year and recently held an outdoor 'Eucharist in the yard' service.
In January 2027, the Diocese of Bristol is launching a new formation and training course for those exploring a call to the ministry of spiritual direction. The course is ecumenical and will welcome both lay and ordained Christians.
From 6–14 June, churches across Swindon joined together to host a Green Festival featuring special services, bell ringing, litter picks, a dog show, film nights and many other activities, all centred on the theme of being rooted in faith and growing a greener future.
Between 10-14 June, Bishops, Clergy, and Laity from across the country, including representatives from the Diocese of Bristol, came together for the final General Synod of this quinquennium. This article provides a summary of proceedings
New clergy and lay members are being elected to General Synod this year – and you are invited to stand as a candidate.
On Sunday, 26 July, former Archbishop of Canterbury, the Rt Revd Rowan Williams, will preach and preside at St Anne’s Church in Eastville, Bristol as they celebrate 100 years since the church was consecrated.
During the recent Diocesan Pilgrimage (20th – 27th May 2026), the planting of seeds became a powerful and memorable symbol of hope.
A series of 12 portraits celebrating the life and witness of disabled people who minister and work in the Church of England, featuring Cannon Alice Kemp, Dean of Women's Ministry in the Diocese of Bristol, will be launched at the General Synod this weekend.
A number of changes to UK data protection law have recently been introduced. Make sure you are compliant by following these steps.
On Friday 13 June, around 50 people involved in and passionate about Children, Young People and Families (CYPF) ministry gathered from across the Diocese for Heart & Hope – a day dedicated to worship, encouragement, reflection and dreaming together.
Across two services over the weekend of 4/5 July, eight new Priests and eight new Deacons were ordained in Bristol Cathedral by the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon.
St Mary’s Church, Lydiard Tregoze, will formally launch its organ restoration appeal next month with a special recital celebrating the rich musical heritage of its much‑loved 1902 William Sweetland organ.
At two services in June, churchwardens from across the Diocese celebrated and affirmed their ministry as they formally took up their offices for another year at this years Archdeacons Visitations.
On Tuesday, 26 June, Bishop Neil and the Diocesan education team gathered at Bristol Cathedral to celebrate the induction and commissioning of five new headteachers who will serve in Church of England schools across the Diocese.
On Wednesday, 17 June, Bishop Neil met with the new Lord Mayor of Bristol, Yassin Mohamud. The meeting took place at the Tawfiq Mosque and was also attended by some members of the Mosque’s congregation.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to announce eight Deacons who will be licensed or ordained on Sunday 5th July 2026.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to announce the ordination of eight new Priests on Saturday 4th July 2026.
The Diocese of Bristol’s Racial Justice Team publishes set of resources to support churches and communities ahead of Windrush Day on 22 June
We note and support the Church of England’s national apology issued today regarding its role in historical adoption practices, particularly in relation to mother and baby homes in the post-war period.
Saltmine Theatre Company brings Bible stories to life in joyful school performances.
On Wednesday, 3 June, at Malmesbury Abbey, the Diocese celebrated 19 individuals who have completed training in urban mission. 15 participants were also commissioned as Urban Missioners and are stepping into various roles of leadership and service in their local areas.
1-7 June marks Volunteers' Week 2026. This year, the Diocese has taken the opportunity to celebrate the people who keep our churches and communities thriving by sharing the stories of a range of individuals. You can read about some of them here and find links to videos of the rest at the bottom of the article.
The Fromside Benefice is passionate about ensuring people of all ages feel welcome and able to engage with church. They have made significant efforts to promote inclusion for those with Dementia and hosted a day-long event focused on Dementia awareness and support.
The Diocese of Bristol has today released a statement, providing an update regarding the appointment of the next Bishop of Bristol. Click to read the full statement.
As part of this new partnership, the Diocese and SWYM are currently celebrating the first cohort of clergy to begin the training programme ‘Launchpad’, a youth work course developed by national charity Youthscape.
On Saturday, 13 June, Bristol Cathedral is offering singers of all abilities an opportunity to join in with singing choral evensong and experience the beauty and tradition of Anglican choral worship.
Guidance has been published today, 20 May, on applying to a new Government grant fund for listed places of worship. The fund provides support for capital works, including fabric repairs and essential improvements such as electrical upgrades, heating, toilet provision, and step-free access.
On Tuesday 9 June, the Reverend Dr Brutus Green, who joined St Mary Redcliffe earlier this year, will undertake a remarkable charity climb to the top of the church’s iconic spire in support of an ambitious new sustainability project
A new national safeguarding resource from the Church of England has been launched, aimed at deepening understanding of safeguarding as a shared, personal responsibility.
The Mission to Seafarers supports men and women working at sea around the world, offering practical, emotional and spiritual care. The charity has served seafarers visiting ports along the Bristol Channel since 1836 and has several links with the Diocese, including a dedicated chapel in Bristol Cathedral.
On Tuesday, 12 May, Churches from across the Diocese were celebrated at the 2026 Church Transformation Awards. Held at St James Church, Mangotsfield, the awards recognised outstanding projects from the past year that have transformed church buildings to better support worship, mission and community life, celebrating the hard work and commitment of volunteers and staff.
On Tuesday, 14 May at 2pm, Bristol Cathedral will host their fifth annual Service of Remembrance for those who have died affected by homelessness.
The Church of England has released new guidance for parishes outlining opportunities to reduce costs through VAT reliefs.
After more than half a century of silence, the bells of St James Church in Sevenhampton are ringing once more, thanks to determination, careful investigation and many hours of volunteer work.
Churchwardens from across the Diocese were recently invited by the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon, to attend a gathering, thanking them for all they do for their Churches
Churches across the Diocese are making the most of a new opportunity to engage their communities with one of the most urgent issues of our time.
Over the last weekend of April, 34 students, 8 facilitators and a course Chaplain from the Dioceses of Bristol, Exeter and Truro gathered for the first residential weekend and launch of the Church Mission Society (CMS) Contextual Pioneer Mission course.
On 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act came into force. The changes to renting will impact people across the Diocese.
On Thursday, 30 April, the Parish of Swindon New Town hosted the latest evening in its ‘Grace on the Ground Level’ series, exploring the stories behind what has become known as the ‘Quiet Revival’.
A three-year Innovation Funding project has supported growth, discipleship and stronger mission in Swindon New Town parish, according to a newly published independent evaluation.
In February, the Diocese announced that the first stage of a public consultation exploring the future of All Saints Church on Corn Street, believed to be the burial place of Edward Colston, had been completed. We are now able to share full details of the next phase, including how you can take part.
On Thursday, 23 April, over 100 ministry leaders from low-income areas gathered at B&A Church for the 2026 CCX ‘Multiply Estates Mission’ conference.
Christ Church, Old Town Swindon, has celebrated the launch of a new digital display, made possible through a generous donation from local organisation the Guardians Group.
In July 2024, the Woodbridge community tragically lost a young farmer to suicide. A year later, the Woodbridge Parishes created a safe, informal space where local men could talk, eat together and access professional mental-health guidance.
The 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 Easter edition we hear about Holy Cross Sherston's new bell ringing ropes, the Maundy Thursday Chrism Eucharist at the Cathedral and St Peter's, Filton's service celebrating influential women.
For the past three years, St John the Baptist Church, Colerne, and Wild Colerne have worked together to run a summer sewing project that brings creativity, community and care for Creation together in a unique way.
People from across the Diocese gathered at the Cathedral and parishes over Easter to celebrate Christ’s resurrection, sharing in worship marked by rich symbolism, music, and joyful ceremony.
Clergy, Licensed Lay Ministers, chaplains and lay representatives from across the Diocese of Bristol gathered at Bristol Cathedral on Maundy Thursday, 2 April 2026, for the annual Chrism Eucharist.
On the 25 March 2026, Dame Sarah Mullally was installed as Archbishop of Canterbury at Canterbury Cathedral
National recognition for Cafe in the Church at Holy Trinity Westbury, with visit to House of Lords
From 1 April 2026, up to £50,000 is available for large projects to enhance accessibility and inclusion within parishes from the Parish Accessibility Fund.
The following address was delivered by the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon, to the Diocesan Synod that took place on Saturday 21 March 2026
The 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, will be installed at Canterbury Cathedral on 25 March 2026, the Feast of the Annunciation. Find out more about how to watch the service.
Parishes across the Diocese of Bristol are being encouraged to join Acts 435, a national Christian charity that enables churches to post small, practical needs online so that donors can give directly to individuals experiencing hardship.
On Thursday 12 March, Clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) gathered at St Michael’s, Stoke Gifford, for a Bishops’ Study Day, taking an opportunity to pause, reflect and reconnect during the season of Lent.
On Tuesday, 10 March, charity leaders, volunteers, church members and the Mayor gathered at Swindon Academy to celebrate the recent launch of the our Social Action Audit. The purpose of the event was both to celebrate the vital work already happening and to consider how the Audit can be used as a launchpad to foster new partnerships and projects.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that The Revd Canon Peter Huxtable has been licensed as Team Rector of the Yate Benefice.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that the Revd Matt Southcombe has been licensed as Vicar in the benefice of Christ Church with Emmanuel Clifton.
When life gradually returned to normality after the Covid pandemic, some things struggled to get off the ground again. For Christ Church Downend, this was the case for some of their connections with their local schools. The loss of relationships, combined with a desire to work more closely with other nearby schools, led the parish to employ a ‘Growing Faith Chaplain’.
In recognition of International Women's Day, hear stories from women who are 'giving to gain' across the Diocese
On Thursday 26 February, charity leaders, volunteers, clergy and church members gathered at St Paul’s, Southville, to celebrate the launch and findings of the Diocese of Bristol’s Social Action Audit.
The Diocese of Bristol has published its 2025 Social Action Report, highlighting the scale and impact of church-led initiatives across the region.
Bristol Cathedral has announced that Joseph Ijoyemi has been selected to create a major new permanent artwork responding to the Colston window at the back of the building.
The grant application deadline is fast approaching for both the Gloucester and Wiltshire Historic Churches Trusts. Find out more about your eligability.
Between 9–13 February, Bishops, Clergy, and Laity from across the country, including representatives from the Diocese of Bristol, came together for the first General Synod of 2026. This article provides a summary of proceedings
Recently, thanks in part to help from the Diocesan Generosity team, St Andrew’s Church and the Bristol North West Social Justice Hub successfully secured £245,000 of grant funding. This will allow them to expand their building and missional presence. Read the article to hear more about the story and how the Generosity team can support you with your fundraising project.
The February 2026 General Synod passed a motion about using sustainable flowers in church. Find out more.
The developers building our site have put together a short survey to find out how you use our current website, what information and tools you need and how our new site can best serve you. We'd love to have your input!
Through a partnership between the Diocese of Bristol and Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy, 'Climate, Cake and Keeping Warm Cafés' are being were hosted by churches across the Diocese and are supported by the Diocesan Environment and Sustainability team.
