Bishop David spoke in the House of Lords yesterday in the debate on The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill also known as 'Martyn’s Law' in tribute to Martyn Hett who was killed alongside 21 others in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. He commended the work of those who have drafted the Bill and expressed his gratitude for the amendments that help to balance the needs of smaller venues.
Bishop David shares his message for the Feast of Epiphany, reflecting on the challenges the Church faced in 2024 and reinforcing his commitment to safeguarding. He sets out his hopes for the years ahead that centre around our four themes of Growing Younger, Developing Missional Leaders, Church Planting and Revitalisation and Parish Renewal.
Last Saturday's Diocesan Synod marked the first meeting of the new triennium, welcoming new members alongside those who have served for many years.
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.
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.
Last night, Manchester Cathedral hosted a very special Evensong during which the Venerable Karen Smeeton was installed as Archdeacon of Rochdale, five new Honorary Canons and one new Lay Canon were installed, and the Revd Canon Anne Edwards was welcomed as Bishop David's Senior Chaplain.
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.
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.
St John’ House Bury, the central diocesan office, has been awarded an Eco Church Bronze Award for steps taken to help achieve net zero carbon.
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.
