Latest News - Diocese of Manchester

Bishop David's Christmas Message 2024

First published on: 19th December 2024

This Christmas, Bishop David invites us to pause and reflect on the simple yet profound message of the angels to the shepherds in Bethlehem: "I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people." In a world often overshadowed by darkness and uncertainty, the message of Christ’s birth offers a timeless reminder of hope and light. Just as the shepherds were invited to come and witness the miracle in the most ordinary of places, Bishop David encourages us to draw near to the joy of the season, whether at home with loved ones, through community celebrations, or in the quiet reflection of Christmas services.

Bishop David shares his concerns about the Assisted Dying Bill

First published on: 21st November 2024

In this article, which was published in the Manchester Evening News, Bishop David shares his concerns about the Assisted Dying Bill.

Diocesan Synod Gathers for the First Meeting of the New Triennium

First published on: 24th October 2024

Last Saturday's Diocesan Synod marked the first meeting of the new triennium, welcoming new members alongside those who have served for many years.

Thank You Canon Phillip Blinkhorn: Reflections on His Time as Chair of the DBF

First published on: 24th October 2024

Last week marked the conclusion of Canon Phillip Blinkhorn's tenure as Chair of the Diocesan Board of Finance. Phillip has dedicated nearly five decades to serving the diocese, first joining Diocesan Synod in 1976 before becoming Chair of the DBF in 2012. At Synod, Bishop David presented Phillip with a gift as a token of the diocese’s appreciation.

Annual Schools Conference meets at Manchester Monastery

First published on: 16th October 2024

Our annual schools conference, held in Manchester Monastery on Friday, was a great success with over 180 school and church leaders attending. The day was entitled ‘Distinctly Christian in a Changing World.’

New Director of Mission and Ministry will be The Revd Phil Cansdale

First published on: 27th September 2024

The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Prof David Walker is delighted to announce the appointment of The Revd Phil Cansdale as Manchester Diocese’s new Director of Mission and Ministry.

New Director of Vocations will be the Revd Canon Rachel Watts

First published on: 29th August 2024

The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Prof David Walker is delighted to announce the appointment of The Revd Canon Rachel Watts as Director of Vocations following in the successful footsteps of The Revd Canon Nick Smeeton.

New Archdeacon of Rochdale will be the Revd Canon Karen Smeeton

First published on: 28th July 2024

The Bishop of Manchester, The Rt Revd Prof David Walker is delighted to announce the appointment of the Revd Canon Karen Smeeton as the new Archdeacon of Rochdale. Karen takes on the role following the retirement of the Ven David Sharples earlier this year.

Authorised Lay Ministers gather for Summer Conference

First published on: 18th July 2024

Over 100 Authorised Lay Ministers (ALM) and special guests gathered last Saturday for the annual ALM Summer Conference.

Preparing for ordinations this weekend!

First published on: 27th June 2024

Preparations are now well underway for this weekend's ordination services. This Petertide, 32 people are being ordained in the diocese - 18 as deacons and 14 as priests.