News - Diocese of Bristol

St Bartholomew’s reducing carbon footprint and encouraging biodiversity

First published 23rd January 2026

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.

Social Action Audit Report Celebration

First published 22nd January 2026

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.

Will Fairbairn commissioned as Co-Area Dean for Bristol City Deanery

First published 21st January 2026

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.

Three Crowns Newsletter: Epiphany Edition

First published 20th January 2026

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.

Font issues with diocesan website

First published 16th January 2026

Current issues with website font

ECFC volunteer Jan Pike invited to Downing Street Christmas reception

First published 9th January 2026

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.

Ordinands Epiphany gathering – How do I know if I am called to Ordination?

First published 8th January 2026

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.

A Christmas Day Greeting of Hope and Joy

First published 23rd December 2025

As we celebrate the wonder of Christmas Day, Dean Mandy and Bishop Neil offer their warm greetings

Join us for Earthed in Mission - A Gathering Rooted in Rural Mission

First published 22nd December 2025

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.

Andrew Gilmour Licensed as Rector of Greenways Benefice

First published 15th December 2025

The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to share that The Revd Andrew Gilmour has been licensed as Rector of the Greenways Benefice.

Bishop Neil's statement following the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach

First published 15th December 2025

Bishop Neil has made a statement following the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach.

Diocesan Board of Education hosts conference centred on ‘Flourishing Together’

First published 12th December 2025

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.

Blue Christmas services to provide space for reflection and remembrance

First published 10th December 2025

During Advent, churches across the Diocese, including the Cathedral, are holding alternative Christmas services for those experiencing grief, loss or loneliness.

Applications for 2026 Choral Evensong Trust Patronal Festival grants now open

First published 8th December 2025

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.

Training equips Parish Officers to address racial bias in safeguarding practice

First published 5th December 2025

The Diocesan Safeguarding and Racial Justice teams recently hosted a training event centred around understanding safeguarding through a racial lens.

An invitation to pause: Advent Quiet Day brings rest and renewal

First published 4th December 2025

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.

Diocese hosts interfaith day for primary schools

First published 2nd December 2025

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?’.

Revd Ness Brunner-Ellis licensed as Vicar in Warmley, Syston & Bitton Benefice

First published 1st December 2025

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.

Young people exploring inclusive, traditional Christianity at St James Church

First published 21st November 2025

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.

Bishop Neil's Diocesan Synod Presidential Address, 15 November 2025

First published 18th November 2025

Read Bishop Neil's Diocesan Synod Presidential Address from 15 November 2025.

New community launched for pioneers and changemakers

First published 18th 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

‘Weaving Trust’ event builds community and collaboration

First published 14th November 2025

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.

Chaplains gather for evening of encouragement and community at Cathedral

First published 13th November 2025

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.

Diocese to commission 17 Benefice Worship Leaders

First published 10th November 2025

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

First published 7th November 2025

Little Somerford Parish celebrates Baptisms in local river

Diocese appoints new Chaplain with the Deaf Community

First published 3rd November 2025

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.

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‘Kindness and Connection echoing beyond Church walls’ at Swindon Lunch Club

First published 31st October 2025

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.

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Queen Camilla visits The Poppy Project in Corsham

First published 30th October 2025

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.

St Mary’s Church Henbury unveils memorial plaque in memory of enslaved lives

First published 29th October 2025

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.

Bristol Churches host sustainability focused community events

First published 27th October 2025

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.

Licensed Lay Minister Hoodies sparking ministry opportunities

First published 24th October 2025

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.

The Revd Sue Gent licensed as Parish Priest in the benefice of Yate

First published 20th October 2025

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.

Diocese celebrates Lay Ministry as five new Lay Ministers licensed in Cathedral

First published 13th October 2025

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.

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Diocese of Bristol stands with Jewish communities on National Day of Solidarity

First published 9th October 2025

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.

Three Crowns Newsletter: Harvest Edition

First published 8th October 2025

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.

Diocese commissions first Anna Chaplains on UN Day of Older People

First published 7th October 2025

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.

Wiltshire Farmer: ‘Everything that sustains us is a gift from God’

First published 7th October 2025

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.

Diocese of Bristol welcomes appointment of first female Archbishop of Canterbury

First published 3rd October 2025

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.

Bishop of Manchester statement following attack on Heaton Park Synagogue

First published 2nd October 2025

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.

Parish Officers collaborate and connect at Church Teams Day

First published 1st October 2025

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’s statement on hostility towards asylum seekers and minority groups

First published 30th September 2025

Bishop 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 2025

In 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 2025

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.

Bristol Cathedral rededicates restored organ

First published 25th September 2025

Following 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 2025

The 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.

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Representatives for Crown Nominations Commission announced

First published 19th September 2025

We 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 2025

On 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 2025

We’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 2025

The 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 2025

We 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 2025

On 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 2025

On 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 2025

The Archbishop of York has issued a statement on the situation in Gaza.

June Licensings: Curates embrace new seasons of ministry

First published 18th July 2025

Throughout 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 2025

On 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 2025

The 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.

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Echo Focus: Search for the new Bishop of Bristol embraces inclusive listening

First published 11th July 2025

Young 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 2025

It 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

Churches 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 2025

The 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 2025

Your 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

This 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 2025

Four 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 2025

Bishop 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 2025

Revd 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 2025

Following 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 2025

Churches 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 2025

We'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 2025

Where 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 2025

The 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 2025

Following 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 2025

Church 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 2025

This 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.

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Open letter from women of faith on Assisted Dying

First published 7th April 2025

Bishop 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 2025

On 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 2025

Bishop 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 2025

On 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 2025

On 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

The 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.

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Belonging and Togetherness: Grand Iftar at Bristol Cathedral

First published 18th February 2025

Bristol 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 2025

A 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 2025

The Church of England’s nomination process for the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury is now open until 28 March 2025.

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Bishop of Bristol announces her retirement

First published 6th February 2025

The 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 2025

The 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 2025

On 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 2025

The 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: