Giving Thanks for the Ministry of Archdeacon Rachel Mann

This week, the Diocese of Manchester bids farewell to Archdeacon Rachel Mann as she retires from full-time ministry.

Over more than two decades of ordained ministry in our diocese, Rachel has made an extraordinary contribution to the life of the Church, our diocese, and wider society. A gifted priest, theologian, poet, author, broadcaster and teacher, she has combined intellectual rigour with deep pastoral compassion, touching countless lives through her ministry and creative work.

Rachel has served in the Diocese of Manchester since her ordination in 2005, including as curate at St Matthew’s, Stretford, incumbent at St Nicholas, Burnage, service as Area Dean of Bury and Rossendale, and most recently as Archdeacon of Salford and Bolton. Alongside these roles, she has been a member of General Synod, Chair of the House of Clergy in Manchester Diocese, an Honorary Canon of Manchester Cathedral, a trustee and teacher, helping to shape the life and witness of the Church at local and national level.

Rachel’s ministry has been marked by wisdom, creativity, compassion and a deep love for God and God’s people. Through her leadership, pastoral care, preaching, writing and public witness, she has enriched the life of our diocese and the wider Church. 

Beyond her parish and diocesan ministry, Rachel has achieved recognition as a writer and broadcaster. The author of over 15 books spanning theology, poetry, liturgy and fiction. In 2024, her acclaimed poetry collection Eleanor Among the Saints was shortlisted for the prestigious T. S. Eliot Prize, one of the most significant awards in contemporary poetry. The collection explores themes of faith, identity and human flourishing through the story of Eleanor Rykener, a medieval transgender woman.

Archdeacon Rachel’s broadcasting work has brought thoughtful Christian reflection to audiences across the country through BBC radio and television. 

Reflecting on Rachel’s ministry, Bishop David Walker said:

“In twenty years as a priest, Rachel has squeezed in more achievements than most of us manage in a lifetime. As a writer and broadcaster, she has gained national and international recognition for her huge talents. Her time as chair of the House of Clergy reflects the high esteem in which she is held by her clergy colleagues. As Area Dean and then Archdeacon she has shown how to combine strategic vision, pastoral sensitivity and attention to detail.

“I am so sad that ill health has forced her to retire from full time stipendiary ministry at such an early age. However, I know that she will still be exercising her many and unique gifts to the glory of God and the betterment of us all.”

The Rt Revd Dr Matthew Porter, Bishop of Bolton adds,

“Archdeacon Rachel: we’ve worked closely together over the last three years and I’m thankful for so many things, not the least your fine mind, your witty humour and your missional heart. I’m pleased you’re staying in the diocese and am praying that your early retirement will be surprisingly fruitful and joyful for you. With every blessing.”

While Rachel’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter of full-time ministry, her influence will continue to be felt through her writing, teaching, broadcasting and ongoing witness. We give thanks for her faithful service, her wisdom, creativity and friendship, and we pray that this next season will bring rest, renewed health and every blessing.

Close colleagues Archdeacon Karen Best and Archdeacon Karen Smeeton have added their notes of farewell,

“Goodbye, dear colleague and friend.  Have a wonderful ‘busy’ retirement!  Love Karen B xx.” Archdeacon Karen Smeeton added, “Have a fabulous retirement Rachel, we’ll miss you.”

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As Rachel prepares to retire, colleagues, parishes and friends had the chance to share tributes reflecting on the many ways she has inspired, supported and encouraged them over the years.