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.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that the Revd Brutus Green has been licensed as Vicar of St Mary Redcliffe with Temple Bristol and St John the Baptist Bedminster.
The first stage of a consultation to determine the future of All Saints Church on Corn Street, believed to be the burial place of Edward Colston, has been completed.
The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to announce that The Venerable Adrian Youings has been licensed as Interim Minister in the Swindon Deanery.
In October 2024, the benefice of Cotham Parish Church and St Paul’s, Clifton, launched ‘Earthy Foundations’, a weekly gathering for families with babies and small children. The group focuses on faith formation, while also seeking to invest in the spiritual engagement of the whole family.
On 22 January 2026, the government confirmed the end of the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. The scheme will be replaced by a £92 million four-year-fund called the Places of Worship Renewal Fund.
Today, 28 January, a special service was held at St Pauls Cathedral in which Dame Sarah Mullally officially became Archbishop of Canterbury. The Confirmation of Election is one of the final steps in the process of a new Archbishop beginning their role.
As we remember the Holocaust today, Bishop Neil has shared his reflection.
In 2022, St Bartholemew’s, Wick, engaged in the Arocha UK Eco-Church initiative and achieved a Bronze Award for their practical action in caring for God’s earth. The award helped them to think further about their efforts to care for creation and, in 2024, Net Zero initiatives from the Diocese and a chance meeting with the Common Connections team in South Gloucestershire Council gave them a renewed energy to take positive action.
Over the past year, churches across the Diocese of Bristol have been making an incredible difference in their communities. Through the dedication of 1,634 volunteers, we’ve reached and supported 40,773 people - providing practical help, friendship, and hope where it’s needed most.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that the Revd Will Fairbairn has been commissioned as Co-Area Dean for the Bristol City Deanery.
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 Epiphany edition we hear about Holy Trinity Horfield hosting a school faith-based dance day, St Bartholomew’s environmental action and a growing space for young families at Cotham and St Paul’s.
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Back in early December, Jan Pike, a dedicated volunteer at Easton Christian Family Centre (ECFC), received an invitation to the Prime Ministers Christmas reception at 10 Downing Street to thank her for all she does for her local community. Here is what she had to say.
To celebrate Epiphany, Ordinands from across the Diocese and new Bishops Advisors for National Panels gathered for a service at the Cathedral. We spoke with Becca Stephens, Diocesan Adviser for Ordinands and Vocations, to ask her about ordination and what to do if you feel that God may be calling you to this ministry.
As we celebrate the wonder of Christmas Day, Dean Mandy and Bishop Neil offer their warm greetings
Breaking new ground for the Diocese of Bristol, “Earthed in Mission” is bringing together practitioners from across the UK to share stories and strategies for rural ministry on Saturday January 31 2026 from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at Doynton Village Hall.
The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that The Revd Andrew Gilmour has been licensed as Rector of the Greenways Benefice.
Bishop Neil has made a statement following the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach.
In November, the Diocesan Board of Education hosted a conference where school leaders, Academy Trust teams, governors and clergy partners could share in community and hear about how to best support their schools.
During Advent, churches across the Diocese, including the Cathedral, are holding alternative Christmas services for those experiencing grief, loss or loneliness.
The grants help Anglican parish churches across the UK celebrate their patronal festival — the feast day of their patron saint — with a service of choral evensong and a community reception.
The Diocesan Safeguarding and Racial Justice teams recently hosted a training event centred around understanding safeguarding through a racial lens.
Bishop Neil, along with the Diocesan Mission and Ministry team, recently hosted an Advent Quiet Day, offering Licensed Lay Ministers and clergy space for rest and reflection amongst community.
Earlier this month, to support the national 'Interfaith Week' initiative, the Diocesan Education Team partnered with the South Gloucestershire Advisory Council on Religious Education, alongside Longwell Green and St Chad’s Primary Schools, to host a special day focused on the theme: ‘How should we treat others?’.
The Diocese of Bristol is delighted to share that Revd Ness Brunner-Ellis has been licensed as Vicar in the Benefice of Warmley, Syston and Bitton.
Over the past few years, St James Mangotsfield, which offers a quieter, inclusive and, at times, more contemplative approach to faith, has experienced a notable rise in the attendance of young adults.
Read Bishop Neil's Diocesan Synod Presidential Address from 15 November 2025.
Lee Barnes, Diocesan Adviser for Curacy and Fresh Expressions, has been part of a group launching a new community for pioneers and changemakers in God’s unfolding movement to renew all things
On Monday 10 November, Bristol Citizens, in partnership with Citizens UK, the Diocese of Bristol, City of Sanctuary and Bristol Students Union, hosted ‘Weaving Trust’, an event centred around conversation and connection.
On Tuesday, 11 November, chaplains from across the Diocese came together in the Cathedral for an evening of encouragement, community and celebration, hosted by Bishop Neil.
Between October and December, 17 lay people from across the Diocese will be commissioned to serve their benefices as Worship Leaders. Those being commissioned have spent time together over the past few months exploring the theology and practice of worship and will play an important role in supporting ministry in their parishes.
Little Somerford Parish celebrates Baptisms in local river
The 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.
The 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.
On 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.
On 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.
In 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.
Although 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.
On 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.
On 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.
Today, 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.
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 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.
Wednesday, 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.
This 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.
Bishop 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.
The 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.
On 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 has released a statement on the rise in hostility towards asylum seekers and racially minoritised groups.
In September, the Diocese of Bristol celebrated the licensing of two Curates as they step into new roles of leadership and service.
The 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.
Following the completion of a 19-month restoration, the organ of Bristol Cathedral has been rededicated and blessed as an instrument of worship.
