New Clergy Lead to Join The Antioch Network

We are pleased to introduce The Antioch Network’s new Clergy Lead, Revd Greg Sharples, pictured here with his wife Sophie. Greg is due to take up this new post later in 2026.

The Antioch Network is a partnership of small missional churches within the Diocese of Manchester, working together to plant, revitalise, and grow local congregations. Churches are established in areas where the diocese is struggling to connect with the local community, often in some of our region’s most deprived neighbourhoods. These plants are based on church models where the numbers remain small, the church is highly attuned to issues of poverty, and where relationships are strong. 

Accepting the role, Greg writes the following:

“I’m delighted to be joining The Antioch Network as Clergy Lead with the Diocese of Manchester.

“It’s a real joy and privilege to be stepping into a movement that is already doing such faithful, courageous, and fruitful work in some of the most diverse and deprived communities across Greater Manchester. The vision of Antioch – to make disciples of Jesus Christ by multiplying churches – is one that resonates deeply with me, and I’m excited to play my part in supporting what God is already doing.

“My heart is to serve the leaders and teams across the network, to encourage and strengthen the churches, and to stand alongside communities as they seek to see lives transformed by the love of Jesus. I long to see lost people found, disciples made, and local churches becoming places of hope, healing, and new beginnings.

“I come into this role with around 20 years’ experience in different forms of church leadership, the last 12 of which I’ve had the privilege of serving as Vicar in Widnes. During that time, I’ve seen again and again the faithfulness of God in both seasons of challenge and seasons of growth, and I’m deeply grateful for all that those years have taught me about mission, discipleship, leadership, and the power of the local church.

“Sophie and I have been married for nearly 19 years. She is a trained Occupational Therapist but, over the last few years, has overseen the kids and youth work and played her part in the overall leadership of the church. We have three children: Seb (13), who loves music; Bea (10), whose passion is drama; and Josiah (8), who is pretty keen on football and Pokémon. Together we share a sense of call to The Antioch Network and are excited to be part of one of the churches, serving on the ground.

“I’m very much looking forward to getting to know the churches, leaders, and communities of the Antioch Network – to listening and learning, and to building on the strong foundations that are already in place.

“One verse that has defined my life is Hebrews 12:1–3:

“…since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

“Please do pray for me and my family as we prepare for this next chapter. I’m excited to see all that God will do in and through Antioch in the years ahead – and I’m really looking forward to running the race with you.”

Read more about The Antioch Network