Ordinations 2025

Candidates looking to explore a life of ordained ministry undertake a period of discernment followed by ordination training. Upon successful completion of their course, they will be ordained a deacon by the Bishop, and will begin a curacy in a parish. Curacy is an opportunity to serve alongside an experienced vicar as they prepare for their own ministry and usually lasts about three years. 

As a deacon you are able to do weddings and baptisms, but you must be ordained priest before you can preside over Holy Communion. Most candidates are ordained a priest after a year of curacy.

Our Diocesan Ordination Services took place on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July at Peterborough Cathedral. You can watch the services on our Youtube Channel, using these links. 

Ordination of Priests - Saturday 5 July

Ordination of Deacons - Sunday 6 July 

Watch our slideshow of images from the services below:

Ordinations 2025 

 


Meet our Ordinands

Meet our ordinands who were ordained deacon on 6 July. Please pray for them as they begin their curacies in the Diocese.

George Brett 

George became a Christian in his teens going on to study Theology, Music and Worship at university. The call to ordination originally came twelve years ago while working as a music director at a church in London, and prior to ordination training at Trinity College, Bristol, he was working in the technology industry. George is passionate about Christian engagement in the arts in worship and mission, the power of the blessed sacrament, and the Christian call to environmentalism and liberation of the oppressed and marginalised.  

George is married to Katie, (also an ordinand) and together they have two boys. He enjoys poetry, art, music, motorcycles, board games and cooking. 

George will serve his curacy in the parish of St Andrew’s, Kettering. 

Jess Cotton 

Jess's varied faith journey has seen her serve as a children and families worker and as a licenced Reader and she enjoys setting up pioneering projects to share the good news and be a loving witness.  

Having worked as an accountant for 20 years in the NHS, church and charity sectors, she retrained as a social worker. More recently Jess has worked in community projects combining her interests and experiences to meet local needs with social action and loving service. She trained for ordination at Rippon College, Cuddesdon. 

Jess is a proud mum of two children with a son who is 18, getting ready for university, and a daughter about to start her A-levels. Jess loves being out and about in nature, walking, running, taking in the views and enjoying the countryside or sea air. 

Jess will serve her curacy in the parishes of Wellingborough All Hallows & All Saints. 

 

Carol Deamer 

Born in Luton, Bedfordshire Carol moved to Wellingborough in 1988 with her young family, and from the moment she walked into St Barnabas Church, she knew it was the place God intended her to be.  

Carol worked as a Teaching Assistant in an infant school for more than twenty years, until retirement four years ago and also ran Bible-based after school clubs and prayer spaces at lunchtimes. She was licensed as a Reader in 2011, but, in the years following she felt an increasing call to ordination, She finally decided to follow that calling and has been studying at St Mellitus College in Nottingham for the last year, on the Caleb course. 

Carol has three grown up children, two of whom are now married, and one granddaughter. In her spare time she enjoys walking in local country parks, reading, embroidery, and playing with her granddaughter. 

Carol will serve her curacy in the benefice of Wellingborough St Andrew & St Barnabas. 

 

Helen Halson 

Helen became a Christian in her twenties and at an Explore Day in 2017 she was shocked to discover a call to ordained ministry. Helen’s discernment pathway was complicated and in 2020 she trained as a lay minister alongside her career in NHS Primary Care. This gave Helen her first taste of theological study and she found it a fantastic grounding for future study. 

Her ordinand training pathway was a two-year, full time, context-based diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission with St Mellitus College at their Nottingham Centre and Helen felt this worked well as she could spend lots of time gaining practical experience in parish ministry alongside her studies. 

Helen lives with her husband James and their dog, Lady. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and spending time with family. 

Helen will serve her curacy in the benefice of Abington. 

 

Hilary Halstead

Hilary retired as a GP in 2015 after working in the same practice for 28 years and being senior partner for 7. She was licensed as a reader in 2013 and has enjoyed 12 fruitful years in Reader Ministry including running a Tiny Tots group and coordinating an outreach 4pm service called Peter’s Praise. However, Hilary always felt that her ministry was incomplete and has felt called to ordination over the years, but life circumstances have got in the way. After finding out about the Caleb Stream at St Mellitus College via her son, she feels that it has been the perfect fit and given her a sense of completeness that feels very right.  

Hilary is married to Peter and they have three adult children, one granddaughter and another on the way. She loves to spend her spare time walking her dog Lara, exploring the countryside, knitting and making lace. 

Hilary will serve her curacy in the benefice of Weston Favell. 

 

Angie Kennedy 

Prior to starting her ordination training, Angie worked for the local, Northamptonshire based charity, C2C Social Action in a leadership capacity and before that founded the charity Baby Basics, Northampton as part of her Lay Ministry training. She then went on to study for three years at St Mellitus College. 

Angie has a passion for bringing the Good News to those on the fringes and is looking forward to spending time in the local library and coffee shops, getting to meet those who live in the parish, when she starts her curacy. 

During her spare time Angie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, eating and drinking coffee. She also enjoys building Lego and doing sudoku puzzles. 

Angie will serve her curacy in the Kingsthorpe Benefice with Malcom Arnold Academy. 

 

Alison Long 

Alison has lived in Rutland for the last 27 years and has been a member of Oakham All Saints for much of that time, holding the role of Sunday School leader and Church Warden as well as training as a Spiritual Director before starting the discernment process in 2021. She has been training for Ordination at St Hild in Sheffield and has thoroughly enjoyed her time there, finding the residential weekends at The Community of the Resurrection in Mirfield a real blessing. 

Married with three children and a dog, Alison enjoys walking in the countryside, spending time with friends and family, cooking and going to the gym.  

Alison will serve her curacy with the Oakham Team Ministry and with Launde Abbey.

 

Madeleine Morris 

Madeleine’s roots are in Rutland where her dad’s faithful ministry as a parish priest provide her first and enduring inspiration. She studied Theology in Durham before moving to London to train as a nurse with a career spanning hospital, community and prison settings. Upon moving back to Rutland, she served as a Lay Pastoral Minister and more recently as an Ordinand within the Oakham Team Ministry.  

Madeleine trained at St Hild College and credits becoming a wife and a mother for preparing her for ministry in ‘ways I couldn’t have imagined with all its joys and challenges’. 

Married to Richard with two school-age children and two cats, Madeleine enjoys baking and reading and is looking forward to meeting and getting to know new people when she begins her curacy. 

Madeleine will serve her curacy in the Welland Valley Benefice. 

Nat Stiles 

Nat worked in farming before swapping her wellies for theolgoy books. ‘Having dyslexia made school a bit of a struggle, but I found my escape and my connection with God out in His creation, where no one expected me to read or sit still!’ 

Her ministry journey began in 2019 when she became a children and youth mission enabler as part of the Gen2 apprentice scheme. She completed her theology degree at Ridley Hall, Cambridge as part of the apprenticeship before transitioning from her children and youth role to fully focus on her ordination training. 

Nat is married to Pete and together with their two daughters they live on their family farm along with many pets ranging from two pet cows to a hamster, and many in between! 

Nat will serve her curacy in the benefice of Geddington with Weekley.

 


Meet our deacons

Meet our deacons who were ordained priest on 5 July. Please pray for them as they continue with their curacies. 

Nigel Clent

Nigel spent most of his working life as a taxi driver, which he used more recently as a way to communicate his faith to others. This continues to be his passion, bringing God into the ordinary, in a language that can be understood to anyone that will listen. Married to Jayne for thirty-four years, Nigel came to faith with her through the Alpha course. They have two daughters, and time with God and family is of the most importance to them, along with spending time with friends, preferably involving food and long walks with the dog.

Nigel is serving his curacy in the benefice of Towcester w Caldecote & Easton Neston & Greens Norton & Bradden.

 

 

Rachel Cooley

Rachel was born in Northampton and worked in the mental health sector before studying at St Mellitus College.  She has a great love of the outdoors and walking pilgrimages in particular. Alongside this she also volunteers at the University of Northampton as a Chaplaincy Associate. Being passionate about pioneering and parish ministry, Rachel is keen to proclain the Good News in a variety of different contexts and feels a strong pull towards administering the blessed Sacraments and preaching the Word. She enjoys Rugby and supports the Northampton Saints. 

Rachel is serving her curacy in the Spencer Benefice.

 

Saji Dominic 

Saji was brought up in a traditional Catholic family.  At fifteen, he realised his calling and joined the seminary and became a member of a religious community called the Rosminians. After completing his philosophical and theological studies, he was ordained priest in 2010 and served for two and a half years in India before being invited to Cardiff to work in Rosminian parishes. During this period, he reflected on his vocation, realising a call to family life and took a leave of absence from priestly life where he worked as a prison officer. During this time he shared his intention to serve the Lord within his married life with his wife Manjila, and began to explore the Church of England, worshipping at St. Botolph’s Church in Longthorpe.  

Saji is grateful for all the blessings he has received from God including his wonderful family. He is looking forward to continuing his ministry and serving God and His people in this new chapter of his life.

Saji is serving his curacy in the parish of St Botolph, Longthorpe.

 

Newton Gatambia Kibiringi

It was while Newton was a youth minister in Werrington Parish Church that he sensed the calling to ordained ministry which led to his training at Trinity College, Bristol.  Alongside ministry, he enjoys being a family man, interacting with people while out and about and loves to both play and watch football.  

Newton has found serving the Lord as a Deacon in Weldon, Corby a joy and has deeply valued the opportunity to lead people in worship and preaching as well as being part of baptisms, weddings, and funerals which he describes as a ‘great honour’. 

Newton is serving his curacy in the benefice of Weldon & Deene. 

 

Robert Seaman

Robert worked for the United Reformed Church at their head offices near Kings Cross in London for 22 years prior to answering his call to ordination and undertaking his training at at Trinity College, Bristol, as a dispersed learner. During his weeks at home he spent 3 days working alongside Revd Dawn Airey at Gleneagles Anglican Church. He loves sports,  reading, writing poetry and keeping busy. He has a good, if dry, sense of humour and loves journeying with people. 

During his curacy in Werrington, Peterborough Rob has enjoyed engaging with and encouraging people of all ages and barely a day passes where he is not mindful of the privilege of his calling. 

Robert is serving his curacy in the parish of Werrington. 

 

Huw Yardley

Huw left a 27-year career as a House of Commons Clerk to follow his calling to ordination. A lifelong Anglican, Huw is strongly committed to the role of the parish church in bringing loving service and the good news of Jesus to the whole people of a place. His greatest joy is sharing the Eucharist as part of a faithful community who love God and he enjoys the full breadth of church traditions, feeling the Spirit at work as much in the beauty of choral evensong as in lively contemporary worship. He enjoys watching rugby, reading and cooking, is married to Fiona, a university lecturer and they have 3 grown up children. 

Huw is serving his curacy in the benefice of Broughton w Cransley & Mawsley.

 

 

 

Stories from Light Project Peterborough
Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2025. As part of our focus on their work we hear Roy’s story.
Stories from Light Project Peterborough
Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2025. As part of our focus on their work we hear Tibor's story.
Stories from Light Project Peterborough
Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2025. As part of our focus on their work we hear Alan's story.
Stories from Light Project Peterborough
Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2025. As part of our focus on their work we hear Elias & Meriam's story.
Stories from Light Project Peterborough
Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2025. As part of our focus on their work we hear John’s story.
Tree of Hope aims to help those going through difficult times
Locals are invited to add their messages of hope to an art installation at St Peter & St Paul Church in Abington.
Gen2 Grant Scheme has enabled children and youth projects to thrive
Wonderful work has been taking place across the Diocese in both schools and churches thanks to funding from the Gen2 Grant Scheme.
Meet your Safeguarding Team
The Safeguarding Team has seen some changes and expansion over recent months.
Excited crowds welcome royal visit to All Saint’s, Northampton
Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO visited All Saints' Church on 9 June, as part of a wider visit to the town.
Celebrations take place throughout the 10 days of Thy Kingdom Come
The 10 days of Thy Kingdom Come were a hive of activity across the Diocese as events took place to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the global wave of prayer.
What difference can the Church make in rural settings?
As part of her Deanery visits Bishop Debbie spent a day in the south of the Diocese with Agricultural Chaplain to the Brackley Deanery, The Revd Celia Parkes. During the day Bishop Debbie toured two family farms and heard from Celia about the joys and challenges of modern day farming and how the church needs to respond.
Restoration programme enables church to become the centre of the community
To celebrate 800 years since their first recorded incumbent, St Peter & St Paul’s Church in Rothersthorpe has embarked on an ambitious refurbishment programme.
Prayer is at the heart of Holy Week at St Giles, Desborough
Taking inspiration from the Diocesan Year of Prayer, St Giles made prayer their focus in a variety of ways during Holy Week.
Peace is the focus at St John the Baptist, Piddington during VE Day celebrations
A display of doves created by school children offered a chance to reflect on the importance of peace during VE Day celebrations.
Diocesan Office in Peterborough receives Bronze Eco Church Award
The Diocesan Office in Peterborough has received a Bronze Eco Church Award marking an important step on their Eco Church journey
Ministry Experience Scheme Interns enjoy mid-year retreat
The three day retreat was an opportunity to reflect on how God is shaping their ministry and calling.
House of Bishops statement on Gaza
The House of Bishops which has been meeting this week has issued a statement on the situation in Gaza. Bishop Debbie has added her name to this statement and continues to pray for this situation.
‘It's all about family’ : Creating sustainable church growth
The Revd Michael Moore from St Mary’s Church in Peterborough has seen his congregation more than double over the time he has been in post with 31% are under 20, including 15% under age 10. But Michael says it’s not about doing anything special, ‘its all bog standard Church of England stuff’ he says.
Brixworth deanery celebrates lay volunteers
Brixworth Deanery Synod met on 7 May to recognise and celebrate the work of lay volunteers in deanery churches. They were delighted to welcome almost 100 lay volunteers and provided a light buffet to enable people to socialise and network.
Remembering Richard Pestell
It is with sadness that we announce that Richard Pestell, former Diocesan Secretary, died on May 8.  A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday 5th June at 2pm at St Peter's Church, Weston Favell.
New lighting system leads to huge energy savings
A new lighting system installed recently at All Saints, Oakham has much improved the lighting levels for the congregation but has also led to significant savings in energy usage.
National conference inspires those whose roles focus on care for God’s creation
In March Adam Clarke, Net Zero Carbon Programme Manager, and Pete Brotherton, Diocesan Environment Officer, attended the national church’s annual Connect Conference, which aimed to equip and inspire those whose roles focus on care for God’s creation.
Bishop Debbie gives maiden speech in the House of Lords
On Friday 9 May Bishop Debbie gave her maiden speech in the House of Lords in a debate focusing on the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan.
Bishop Debbie leads service to honour airmen lost over Thorney
On Saturday 29 March Bishop Debbie led a service at Thorney Abbey to honour the 39 people killed during separate air incidents over Thorney.
Why give?
As we look forward to Generosity Week in September this year, Pete Squires Parish Giving Officer considers the theological and spiritual basis for giving.
Primary School supporting pupils to be ‘ambitious, confident citizens'
Staff and pupils at St Luke’s CE Primary School, part of the Peterborough Diocese Education Trust (PDET), are celebrating this month after a new Ofsted report praised the school for supporting pupils to be ‘ambitious, confident citizens’, following a recent school inspection.
Peace, Harmony, and Goodwill in Raunds!
On Sunday 13 April, St Peter's Church, Raunds held the Civic Service for the Mayor of Raunds, Councillor Paul Byrne.
All Saints Church hosts public art installation reflecting on climate change
All Saints Church, Earls Barton in the Wellingborough Deanery recently hosted ‘Halo’, a public art installation by Swiss Danish artist Tobias Zehntner in partnership with Fermynwoods Contemporary Art, an educational art charity based in Northamptonshire.
Maundy Thursday Chrism Mass at Peterborough Cathedral
Maundy Thursday offers a wonderful time of fellowship and reflection as all our Clergy join together in their Chrism Mass in Peterborough Cathedral.
Prayer boxes offer families the resources to express their faith at home
In this Diocesan Year of Prayer various benefices across the Diocese are beginning to utilize the prayer box resource.
Bell Fund ensures the church bells at St Mary’s can ring for future generations
After not being used since the 1970s, the bells at St Mary’s Church, Ashwell have been restored thanks to funding from the Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers’ Bell Fund.
Children share a dramatization of the Easter story in a special service
On a beautifully sunny, but slightly blustery, Wednesday, Bishop Debbie and Peter Cantley, Director of Education, along with the Revd Dawn Stokes from Holy Cross Church in Daventry, were special guests at the Easter Service led by children from Monksmoor Park CE Primary School.
Bishop John announces his retirement.
The Bishop of Brixworth, the Right Reverend John Holbrook has announced he will retire later this year. After 14 years of dedicated service to the Diocese, Bishop John will lay down his crozier on 30 September 2025.
The county of Rutland is celebrated at cathedral service
Rutland’s strong identity and strong sense of community were celebrated at a service in Peterborough Cathedral on Sunday 2 March.
Daventry Young Ringers represent the PDG at regional youth event
Bell ringers from the Daventry Young Ringers represented the Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers at a regional young ringers event.
Prayer stations help children consider Christian values in Shakespearean plays
Since 2023 the schools' team at St Peter’s Church, Weston Favell have been working with Weston Favell CE Primary School to consider the representation of Christian values in Shakespearean plays.
Latest News from the Spring Diocesan Synod
The March Synod took place on Saturday 22 March at Bishop Stopford School in Kettering.
Remembering Frank Smith
It is with great sadness that we record the death of Frank Smith who passed away on Sunday 9 March.
The bells and bell tower are restored at St Peter & St Paul, Harrington
The bells and bell tower at St Peter & St Paul, Harrington have been through significant restoration to enable their continued use for future generations.
A message for International Women's Day from the Dean of Women's Ministry
A message from our Dean of Women's Ministry, Revd Canon Paula York, to celebrate International Women's Day.
‘Experience Christmas’ - a creative and family focused look at the nativity
‘Experience Christmas’ at All Saints, Earls Barton, offered the local community a new way to reflect on the well-known Christmas story.
Friends and supporters of Peterborough Cathedral gather for exclusive event
Members of the Cathedral Keys programme enjoyed a captivating talk by historian Jackson van Uden as part of the Katharine of Aragon Festival 2025.
Up2U Youth Club provides a place to be for over 100 children
The Up2U Youth Club located at St Mark’s Church, Wellingborough provides activities and a place to be for over 100 children. Now in its ninth year, it is still going from strength to strength.
Film afternoons engage encouraging numbers of children and families
Family film afternoons at Holy Spirit Church, Bretton continue to be popular with the congregation and local community, and funding from the Gen2 Grant Scheme has ensured they can carry on into the foreseeable future.
Our Journey to Net Zero Carbon - Housing
Work is being done across the Diocese, to enable us to reach carbon net zero targets and this includes looking at changes that can be made to housing to improve efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
The Quick Wins Grant for carbon reducing work
The Quick Wins Grant is available to help churches across the country with small scale decarbonisation projects.
John Barker receives the Canterbury Cross for services to the Church of England
John Barker has been awarded the Canterbury Cross for his outstanding contribution in leading and promoting the care of church buildings as centres of mission and worship.
Booklets of gravestone inscriptions available for 225 parishes in the county
For over thirty-five years, volunteers from the Northamptonshire Family History Society have been transcribing churchyard gravestone inscriptions and publishing the results.
Safeguarding Audit 2025
The Safeguarding audit of the Diocese by the INEQE Safeguarding Group has started. This is part of a national programme to conduct an independent and comprehensive audit of all Church of England dioceses and cathedrals.
Consultation on the nomination of the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
The process for the appointment of the next Archbishop of Canterbury is underway and, a key part of this, is the extensive consultation exercise that will take place in February and March. Wherever you are based, your views matter.
Bishop Debbie visits the Wellingborough Deanery
In November Bishop Debbie spent the day finding out more about the Wellingborough Deanery.
St Andrew’s CE Primary School receive Church School Excellence Award
St Andrew’s CE Primary School receives Church School Excellence Award in recognition of how well their theologically rooted Christian vision drives their work and the high standards they have achieved.
The Revd Dr John Smith awarded MBE in New Year’s Honours List
The Revd Dr John Smith has been awarded an MBE in the 2025 New Year’s Honours List for services to Palliative Care both in the Cransley Hospice and in the community of North Northamptonshire.
Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers round off centenary year
Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers bring their year of centenary celebrations to a close with a carol service at Towcester.
Geddington Church Restoration
Geddington Church – where a historic restoration restored more than just the fabric of the building.
Lord, Teach us to Pray - Year of Prayer 2025
This year we are focusing on prayer to support the enrichment of the spiritual wellbeing of our parishes and communities.
Farewell to Canon Dr Peter White
Farewell to Canon Dr Peter White as he starts a new role at Ripon College, Cuddesdon
Cathedral in Crisis
Peterborough Cathedral launch their Cathedral in Crisis campaign.
A Christmas message from Bishop Debbie
Wishing you a happy and blessed Christmas.
Welcome to Revd Lex Bradley-Stow
The Revd Lex Bradley-Stow has been appointed Growing Faith Chaplain at Peterborough Cathedral, St John the Baptist Church, and Chaplain of The King’s (The Cathedral) School.
Over 120 visitors attend event to help start their eco- journey
Over 120 visitors attended ‘Care For Creation’, an event designed to encourage churches to start their eco-journey.
Diocesan Statement regarding St Saviours, Northampton
The Diocese has issued the following statement regarding St Saviours, Northampton.
Revd Canon Dr Andrew Coleby retires from his role of Minister Training Officer
Revd Canon Dr Andrew Coleby has retired from his role of Ministry Training Officer. A position he has held since 2017.
Bishop Debbie Visits Thomas Deacon Academy with Peterborough Citizens
Bishop Debbie visited Thomas Deacon Academy alongside Peterborough Citizens to shed light on the urgent housing and homelessness crisis affecting the city’s most vulnerable residents.
A moment of inspiration sparks a special Advent & Christmas adventure
A moment of inspiration has led to an Advent and Christmas celebration full of community, intergenerational worship, and opportunities to encounter God.
Bishop Debbie visits the Brixworth Deanery
On 6 November Bishop Debbie spent time visiting parishes and schools across the Brixworth Deanery.
New Bishop’s Charity announced for 2025
Light Project Peterborough has been announced as the Bishop’s Charity for 2025.
Community Garden achieves silver Churchyard Conservation Award
William Street Community Garden based at All Saints Church, Kettering has been awarded silver in the Northamptonshire Churchyard Conservation Award Scheme 2024.
Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel appoint new chairperson
Dr Russell Wate QPM has been appointed Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel.
St Peter & St Paul Church, Uppingham gain silver Eco Church Award
In less than a year St Peter and St Paul’s Church have gone from Eco Church Bronze to achieving their Eco Church Silver Award.
Resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury - Bishop's Statement
Bishop Debbie has issued the following statement in response to the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury
50 volunteers gather for ‘Ground Force’ event at William Law CE Primary School
School staff, parents and the church community join forces to begin building the school’s Forest Church.
Bishop John appointed as patron of the Marshal Papworth Fund
The Marshal Papworth Fund, a charitable fund which aims to educate agricultural and horticultural students from developing countries at UK colleges and universities has appointed Bishop John Holbrook as patron.
Preparing our young people for the transition from primary to secondary school
Val Griffiths, Headteacher at St Andrew’s Church of England VA Primary School shares the preparation and work they do with their pupils to ensure the transition to secondary schools is a smooth and happy one.
Bishop Debbie commissions new worshipping communities in schools
Four schools within the Diocese that are part of the Flourish network have been commissioned by Bishop Debbie to develop new worshipping communities as part of the Church of England’s vision of becoming younger and more diverse.
Innovative youth project in Uppingham goes from strength to strength
Nat Stiles shares the story of ‘Youth Space’, a successful youth project that shows how Church and community working together can create wonderful outcomes for everyone.
Latest News from Diocesan Synod
The October Synod took place on Saturday 12 October at Malcolm Arnold School in Northampton.
First Eco Church Gold Award for Peterborough Diocese
All Saints Church, Kettering are the first church in the Diocese of Peterborough to achieve this incredible milestone.
Celebrating 30 years of the Priestly Ministry of Women
On Sunday 22 September we celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the Priestly Ministry of Women in our diocese with a special service in Peterborough Cathedral. 
A wonderful start to the academic year as four schools receive Excellence Awards
Following their last Ofsted report and recent SIAMS report, four schools have each been awarded Church School Excellence Awards. The awards were given in recognition of how well their theologically rooted Christian vision drives their work and the standards they have achieved.
Mothers Union Triennial Festival
On Saturday 14 September, the Cathedral hosted the Mothers Union Diocesan Festival, with representatives of all the branches from across the Diocese coming together to worship, commission their new president and chaplain, and to admit new members.
Thriving Church Arts Centre reopens after £300k major renovation
St Andrews Church in Kettering is set to reopen its doors as both a vibrant town centre church and an arts venue after a huge redevelopment project.
New interns start on their ministry experience journey
The 2024/25 cohort of interns have started their MES year with a launch residential at the Chellington Centre.
Let’s Go For A Walk gathering inspires outdoor worship
On Saturday 7 September, nearly 100 people congregated at Launde Abbey for an Outdoor Church gathering entitled ‘Let’s Go For A Walk’.
Revd Alastair Wood completes Ride & Stride challenge
Revd Alastair Wood set himself the challenge to visit all 25 churches in the Daventry Deanery to raise money for Northamptonshire Historic Churches Trust.
Children sell hand-designed caps to raise money for Brain Tumour Awareness
A group of children at Pattishall CE Primary School have been selling hand-designed caps to raise money for a charity very close to their hearts.
Support vulnerable mums and newborn babies with the essentials they need
Why not help mothers and newborns in need by connecting your toddler group, local school or wider church community with Baby Basics.
Interesting discoveries made at butterfly-themed weekend in Earls Barton
Over a weekend in July, members of the Earls Barton community got together to celebrate beautiful butterflies.
Gen2 grant enables St Botolph's to grow its children and youth provision
Earlier this year St Botolph's Church, Barton Seagrave made a successful application for a Gen2 grant allowing them to make improvements to their children and youth work provision by purchasing new equipment.
Emily Elliott appointed as DAC Secretary
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Emily Elliott as DAC Secretary.
Archaeological excavations take place at St Peter’s, Marefair, Northampton
Recent archaeological excavations at St Peter’s Marefair, Northampton unearth some unusual finds.
Gen 2 grant helps new playgroup to thrive
A Gen 2 grant has helped to equip and revitalise the playgroup garden at St Jude’s, Peterborough.
Outdoor Sunday service rounds off events held during The Great Big Green Week
The outdoor service held at St Giles, Desborough brought to a close a weekend of fun filled events aimed at raising awareness of environmental issues.
Animatronic sea creatures offer an exciting journey through marine history
Peterborough Cathedral’s immersive exhibition, ‘Monsters of the Sea’ delves into the captivating world of sea creatures past and present that have inspired wonder and curiosity for generations.
Bubble Church pilot sees encouraging results
Bubble Church services at St Giles are seeing encouraging numbers of families attending church each month.
Centenary celebrations continue with a day out at Stanwick Lakes
The Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers continue their celebrations with an event for all to enjoy.
Catalyst participants enjoy a residential weekend in Derbyshire
Those taking part in the Catalyst course have recently enjoyed a residential weekend as part of the 2024 programme.
‘Serving is very much at the heart of sports chaplaincy’
Revd Jez Safford has been chaplain with Northampton Saints Rugby Club for the past 9 years and feels that serving, rather than leadership, is at the heart of his work.
Ministry Experience Scheme Interns celebrate the end of their first year
Three Diocesan interns taking part in the Ministry Experience Scheme are celebrating their first year serving in local parishes.
Our Mission Team is here to serve you and your parish
Meet the Diocesan Mission Team and the support and resources they can provide.
Welcoming David Morton
We are delighted to welcome David Morton to our Vocation and Formation Team as Lay Ministries Officer.
Peterborough Diocese to launch four new worshipping communities
Peterborough Diocese is pleased to launch four new worshipping communities as part of the Church of England’s vision of becoming younger and more diverse.
Memorial crosses are interred at Kettering General Hospital
On 26 June a service was held at KGH to inter 300 memorial crosses laid during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Welcoming Bishop John Stroyan
We are delighted to welcome Bishop John Stroyan to the Diocese of Peterborough as a new Honorary Assistant Bishop.
Local curate is going for golfing glory
Local curate, Revd Joe Griffith is aiming for golfing glory by attempting to qualify for The Open Championships this week (24 – 30 June).
Annual service welcomes retired clergy and gives thanks for their important work
On 18 June we were delighted to welcome all our retired clergy, clergy widows and widowers to their annual service in Peterborough Cathedral.
Ordinations 2024
Meet our ordinands and deacons who have been ordained this year along with photos from the services.
Wow, Ow and Now form the basis of an environmentally focused Spirituality Day
A successful Spirituality Day held at Oundle CE Primary School provided a great way to link the environment, collective worship and courageous advocacy with lasting results.
New job roles to enable us to meet environmental targets
In collaboration with the Diocese of Leicester we have successfully secured funding to employ a Programme Manager and a Fundraising Officer, to provide essential support to the Diocese and parishes as we embark on our journey to Net Zero Carbon.
Remembering Derek Williams
Our former Diocesan Communications Officer, Derek died peacefully at his home on 3 June 2024.
Bishop Debbie blesses new school garden and library in Pytchley
Bishop Debbie was welcomed to Pytchley CE Primary School to bless their new spiritual garden and library
Pray Your Part - Get involved in the General Election
During the General Election campaign period, the Church of England is inviting everyone to join them in praying for the nation and playing your part as citizens and voters.
Korean clergy welcomed to the Diocese
At the beginning of May we welcomed Irenaeus, a Korean ordinand, who is spending 6 weeks in the Diocese, alongside three priests who were on a shorter trip to the UK.
Primary school pupil organises fundraiser for local food bank
A year 6 pupil at Chacombe CEVA Primary Academy has raised funds for a local church foodbank blazing a trail for courageous advocacy in our schools
54 candidates mark the next stage in their faith journey
On Sunday 28 April 54 pupils at Uppingham School were confirmed by Bishop Debbie in the school’s Victorian chapel, marking the next stage in their faith journey.
Welcome to Andrew Read
We are delighted to welcome Andrew Read to the Education Team. Andrew joins us as part-time Associate Director of Education.
Welcome to Victoria Kellett
We are delighted to welcome Victoria Kellett to our Safeguarding Team in the role of Diocesan Safeguarding Officer.
221 Divorce Help - Call for Hub Churches
221 is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation, run by volunteers and committed to helping people who are finding it hard to cope with all the emotional and practical difficulties they face after the break-up of a relationship.
Bishop Debbie preaches at live broadcast Pentecost Service
A service to celebrate Pentecost was broadcast live on the BBC and iPlayer on Sunday 19 May from All Saints Church in Northampton. The service led by Father Oliver Coss, included a sermon preached by Bishop Debbie.
Could you gain more volunteers this June with The Big Help Out?
The Big Help Out is an opportunity for everyone to experience volunteering and get involved in helping make a difference in the place they live.  Following the huge success of last years initiative, this year's Big Help Out will take place on the weekend of 7-9 June.
Record numbers enter six bell striking contest in centenary year
Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers see record numbers enter the six bell striking contest in the Guild's centenary year.
Christian dance bands create wonderful opportunity to engage with young people
Concerts held in the Diocese by Christian electronic dance bands LZ7 and Saintz create a wonderful opportunity to engage with young people with or without a faith tradition.
Support Churchwarden Paul as he runs for the loo!
Churchwarden Paul Stokes is running the Matlock half marathon on 18 May aiming to raise £1000 towards a toilet and servery for his church in Carlby.
Bishop Debbie helps unveil new statue of Queen Elizabeth II
On Sunday 21 April Bishop Debbie, along with Lord-Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness and Alicia Kearns MP unveiled a new statue of Queen Elizabeth II, the first to be commissioned since her death.
Rysbrack Memorial in Hardingstone restored to former glory
The community of St Edmunds Church Hardingstone celebrated the completion of the restoration of the fabulous Rysbrack memorial last week after months of fundraising and hard work.
Tiffield Primary School receives Church School Excellence Award
Tiffield Church of England Primary School has become the first recipient of the Peterborough Diocese Church School Excellence Award, following its SIAMS inspection during this academic year.
Mothers' Union continues to support families across the Diocese
Mothers' Union has been part of the life of Peterborough Diocese for over 100 years and its members are active in numerous and various ways.
Finding new ways to celebrate Easter with young people
Young people across the Diocese have been exploring Easter in new ways and discovering what it means to them.
Latest News from Diocesan Synod
The March Synod took place on Saturday 23 March at Bishop Stopford School in Kettering.
Clergy join together for annual Chrism Mass
Maundy Thursday offers a wonderful time of fellowship and reflection as all our Clergy join together in their Chrism Mass in Peterborough Cathedral.
Floods close St Mary's but the congregation ensures that worship can continue
Flooding at the beginning of the year has meant St Mary's, Essendine, has been closed for worship but the congregation have worked together to ensure that services can continue, no matter what.
Bishop Debbie blesses drivers heading for Ukraine
On Sunday 17 March Bishop Debbie prayed for and blessed two drivers who will be taking the next ambulance full of aid from the Tove Benefice to Ukraine
Korean Bishops attend Bishop Debbie’s Installation and Service of Welcome
The Archbishop of Korea, who is also the Bishop of Seoul, and the Bishop of Daejon travelled to Peterborough to attend Bishop Debbie’s Installation and Service of Welcome.
Wild@AllSaints awarded gold in Conservation Churchyard Awards
Wild@AllSaints are a group of volunteers in Earls Barton with an aim to make their churchyard more wildlife friendly and enjoy some gardening along the way.
Bishop Debbie’s Service of Welcome
On Sunday 3 March we welcomed Bishop Debbie as she was installed as the 39th Bishop of Peterborough in a joyful and inspiring service at Peterborough Cathedral.
Thy Kingdom Come Pilgrimage, 9 - 19 May 2024
Thy Kingdom Come is a global wave of prayer that invites all to deepen their own relationship with Jesus, to pray for others to come to faith, and for the empowerment of the Spirit that we would be effective in our witness.
Link diocese raises funds for school playground
A school in the Diocese of Seoul, one of the South Korean dioceses linked with the Diocese of Peterborough, is raising money for a much needed playground.
Remembering Charles Taylor
It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the death of Charles Taylor, the former Dean of Peterborough from 2007 to 2016. 
Christian bands LZ7 and Saintz to perform at four secondary schools in Diocese
Christian electronic dance bands LZ7 and Saintz to perform their ‘Illuminate’ tour at four secondary schools in the Diocese.
Bishop Debbie to be installed at a service of welcome in Peterborough Cathedral
Join us online to see The Right Reverend Debbie Sellin installed as the 39th Bishop of Peterborough at a service of welcome in Peterborough Cathedral on 3 March.
Three churches achieve silver Eco Church Awards
St Peter’s, Weston Favell, All Saints, Kettering and St Peter & St Paul Church, Great Casterton have been awarded silver by Eco Church.
Churches can now apply for grants from their parish and town councils
Clarification of legislation confirms that churches can now apply for grants from their parish and town councils.
Proposal put forward to rethink retirement housing
A proposal has been put forward by the Church of England to enable more choice for clergy when making plans for their retirement housing.
2025 Calendar Competition
Are you a budding photographer? Do you have a photo that sums up worship in your parish or an image that captures community spirit?
A Christmas message from Bishop John
Wishing you all a very happy and blessed Christmas.
Christmas prayer space shares the story of Christmas with 800 local children
From 27 November to 2 December a Christmas prayer space was held in St Mary’s Church, Burton Latimer.
Bishop Debbie is Confirmed as the 39th Bishop of Peterborough
Bishop Debbie was confirmed as the 39th Bishop of Peterborough in a special service at Lambeth Palace on Wednesday 13 December.
Prayers of Love and Faith
The House of Bishops have commended the use of the Prayers of Love and Faith in regular worship or private prayer from Sunday 17 December. They have also published pastoral guidance which sets out how they can be used.
Explore Day gives the opportunity to reflect on what your own calling might be
The annual Explore Day is an informal occasion for those who feel God may be calling them to serve in the church.
Successful Parish Giving Scheme to expand throughout the Church of England
Ownership of the Parish Giving Scheme is transferring to the National Church and from 1 January 2024, the regular giving service will be freely available to all parishes throughout the Church of England.
The Power of a Poem
At our Clergy Study Day in November, we were treated to a recital of a poem written especially for the occasion by Breannah Holton, the Kings School Poet Laureate.
Angel Festival raises £15,000 for St Mary’s 600 Appeal
A host of angels took residence inside St Mary’s Church, Higham Ferrers between 17 – 19 November, alongside stalls and refreshments for visitors. All proceeds went towards the St Mary’s 600 Appeal which is raising money for the restoration of the Bede House.
Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers to celebrate centenary in 2024
January 2024 sees the PDG celebrate its 100th anniversary and they have a series of events planned across the year to ensure the anniversary is celebrated in style.
Revd Mike Corcoran is licensed as Lead Chaplain at Kettering General Hospital
Bishop John licensed the Revd Mike Corcoran as Lead Chaplain at Kettering General Hospital on 10 November.
New Bishop’s Charity announced for 2024
Manna House has been designated as the Bishop’s Charity for 2024. This incredibly worthwhile charity provides access to counselling irrespective of faith, background or ability to pay.
Bishop Debbie is elected by the Canons of Peterborough Cathedral
On Thursday 16 November the Canons of Peterborough Cathedral elected Debbie Sellin as the next Bishop of Peterborough.
How Regular Maintenance Can Help Achieve Net Zero Carbon
The biggest threat to the church building fabric is water ingress. Find out more about how you can help your church reach Net Zero with regular maintenance and what support there is available to help.
Kettering Priest appointed as CEO of Children’s Hospice
Jane Burns, Assistant Priest in St Peter and St Paul’s Benefice in Kettering has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer of Rainbows Hospice in Loughborough.
Annual Service of Thanksgiving for Church Schools
On Thursday 5 October children from across the diocese attended the annual Diocesan Schools service in Peterborough Cathedral.
Bishop John attends consecration of Bishop Titus
Bishop John attended the consecration of the Right Reverend Titus Howook Kim in Korea on Saturday 23 September. 
Celebration of Lay Ministry
On Saturday 30 September we celebrated Lay Ministry at Peterborough Cathedral with a day dedicated to all our Lay Ministers.
New Bishop of Peterborough Announced
The next Bishop of Peterborough will be the Right Reverend Debbie Sellin Downing Street has announced today.
Peterborough Cathedral celebrates National Harvest Festival
The National Harvest Service comes to Peterborough Cathedral on 1 October
Peterborough Diocese receives Cyber Essentials Accreditation
After months of hard work, Peterborough Diocese has been awarded Cyber Essential Accreditation demonstrating its commitment to protect the data in its care and guard the organisation against cyber attack.
Ray Hemingray awarded Canterbury Cross for Services to Church of England
The Reverend Ray Hemingray, former Registrar for Peterborough Diocese, has been awarded the Canterbury Cross by the Archbishop for outstanding services to ecclesiastical law and the Church of England.
Korean Link Diocese enjoy return trip to Peterborough
Following our recent Diocesan Link Committee visit to Seoul, we were delighted to welcome back to the Diocese the Very Revd James Park, Dean of Seoul Cathedral, alongside Revd Moses Joo, Revd Aeduk Kim, Revd Gregory Yang, Mrs Veronica Kwon and Mrs Michaela Park.
Cathedral launches Unofficial Galaxies Exhibition
Peterborough Cathedral is hosting one of the largest Star Wars fan private collections in the world this summer.
Church returns crucifix to France after more than 100 years in Tinwell
The Church of All Saints in Tinwell has embarked on an unlikely partnership with a church in Doingt, France following the discovery that the Crucfix that was used by All Saints had been brought back from Doingt during World War I by a former incumbent.
Annual service for retired clergy highlights the importance of their work
On 4th July we were delighted to welcome all our retired clergy, clergy widows and widowers to their annual service in Peterborough Cathedral.
Welcome to Amie Freeman
We are delighted to welcome Amie Freeman to our Safeguarding Team in the role of Safeguarding Learning Development and Case Officer.
Brackley celebrates 800 years
St Peter's Church, Brackley celebrated 800 years of ministry on 11 June and started a year long series of fundraising events.
Trip to Korea highlights the importance of the worldwide church
At the end of May, four parish priests along with Bishop John travelled to our link diocese in Korea to meet with the Anglican Church in Seoul and forge new partnerships and connections.
Conservation area in churchyard brings community to faith
The William Street Community Garden in Kettering originally started during the covid lockdowns when residents in the street stuck at home, rediscovered their community and made friends with their neighbours
Two new silver awards for Eco Churches
After months of hard work by churches in Langham and Peterborough, St Peter and St Paul’s Church and St Mary’s have both been awarded their Silver Eco Church Awards.
Ordinations 2023
Meet our new deacons and priests who were ordained on Sunday 25 June at Peterborough Cathedral
Peterborough parish church brings flower power to the City centre
Flowers have returned to the city centre thanks to a project jointly led by St John the Baptist Church and Peterborough Positive and involving local schools and Peterborough Prison.
Coronation ringers make memories
To mark the Coronation of King Charles III on 6 May there was ringing in 170 towers across the Diocese, with over 900 people participating
Vacancy in See Prayer Resources
As we approach the Crown Nominations Commission meetings we ask for all to pray as they discern our new Bishop.
Kettering Happiness Club shows the joy of intergenerational mission
The Happiness Club at St Andrews CE Primary in Kettering has recently been visited by Lucy Moore, Head of the Growing Faith Foundation at the Church of England
Recycle your old candles and give them a new life
Have you ever wondered what to do with the casing and last section of wax remaining when a candle as burnt out?
Coronation Services and Events
Services and events will be held across the Diocese to commemorate and celebrate the Coronation. 
Bishop's Bible Day Inspires
On Saturday 18 March 200 people came together to enjoy a day of reflection, fellowship and focus on the bible at Bishop John’s Bible Day.
Can your church get involved in the Big Help Out?
To mark the Coronation, Monday 8th May is being dedicated to volunteering. The Big Help Out aims to get more people involved in helping out in their communities.
Diocesan Library Book Amnesty
The Diocesan Library is holding a book amnesty to help find several hundred books which are missing from its shelves.
The Tove Benefice Continues to Support the People of Ukraine
With the help of local resident Paul Parsons, a further £30,000+ has been raised to purchase more medical and humanitarian aid.
Benefact Trust launches new Building Grants Programme
The Benefact Trust has launched a Building Improvement Grants Programme as part of their new-look grants framework.
The Coronation of King Charles III
The Coronation of King Charles will take place on May 6. There are a range of resources available for churches, individuals, families and schools to mark the Coronation weekend.
Churchyard Conservation Award Scheme Launched for 2023
The Wildlife Trust has launched its Churchyard Conservation Award Scheme for 2023 and is inviting you to get involved.
Gen 2 Project Annual Report Published
The Annual Report of the Gen 2 Project has been published revealing more engagement with young people and growing cultural change towards youth ministry in the Diocese.  
New Wardens of Lay Ministry Licensed
Four new Wardens of Lay Ministry have been licensed by Bishop John with two dedicated to working within each Archdeaconry
Bishop's Chaplain to walk whole length of Diocese
Steve Benoy, Bishop's Chaplain and Cathedral Canon Missioner, is undertaking a prayer centered walk through all our deaneries in the period between Ascension and Pentecost as part of the global Thy Kingdom Come Prayer movement.
Living in Love and Faith
Living in Love and Faith is a process initiated by the Church of England in 2017 to consider questions of sexuality, relationship and marriage. The College of Bishops has gathered together on three occasions to agree on outcomes from this process to bring to General Synod in February.   
221 Divorce Help - Call for Hub Churches
221 is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation, run by volunteers and committed to helping people who are finding it hard to cope with all the emotional and practical difficulties they face after the break-up of a relationship.
Farewell to Bishop Donald
On Sunday 8 January we bid farewell to Bishop Donald in a service of Choral Evensong after 13 years as Diocesan Bishop.
Remembering Helen Newman
It is with great sadness that Bishop John announces the death of The Revd Canon Helen Newman, Chaplain to Launde Abbey 2017-2021.
Remembering Sheila Addison
It is with great sadness that we record the death of Sheila Addison.
Vacancy in See
The process for discerning and appointing the new Bishop of Peterborough.  
Christmas Message from Bishop Donald
A reflection from Bishop Donald as we look forward to Christmas.
Youth Ministry Training delivers engagement, encouragement and skills
St. John's Church, Ryhall celebrates new roof
At a special service on Saturday 19 November, St John's Church in Ryhall celebrated the replacement of their old worn out lead roof with a new roof made of terne coated stainless steel.
Ridlington Church is awarded Eco Church Bronze Award
Bishop John was delighted to award Ridlington Church with its Eco Church Bronze Award.
Tove Benefice Supports Ukraine
Since the very beginning of the war in Ukraine, Tove Benefice has been doing all it can to support those affected.
Rejoice in Hope - Recordings and Resources
Access recordings, photos and resources from the 2022 Ministers' Conference which took place from 7-10 November at Yarnfield Park.
The Rt Revd John Holbrook announced as Acting Bishop
The Rt Revd John Holbrook, Bishop of Brixworth will be Acting Bishop for the Diocese of Peterborough when Bishop Donald retires in January.
Call for churches to work together this winter
The Presidents of Churches Together in Shire & Soke have written to all church leaders to urge them to work together to be as effective as possible.
Bishop John visits Rutland Water Benefice
Bishop John undertook a Mission Weekend to the Rutland Water benefice during which he planted a tree as part of the Queen's Green Canopy Project.
Celebration of Lay Ministry 2022
Saturday 15 October saw the much welcomed return of the annual Celebration of Lay Ministry Day following two years of it being curtailed due to covid restrictions.
Holy Land Pilgrimage with Bishop Donald
Following two postponements due to covid restrictions, Bishop Donald was delighted this September to finally be able to lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
New team members join the diocesan offices
We welcome Lisa Allan, Emily Elliott, Dave Battison and Haydon Spenceley to the diocesan team.
Diocesan schools come together in annual service
On Thursday 29th September over 900 students from 32 schools attended the annual Diocesan Schools service in Peterborough Cathedral.
Heating churches sustainably this winter
With the huge increase in fuel costs it can be hard to see where options might be to sustainably heat our churches this winter. Here is the latest information.
A Journey to Korea
Follow the journey of Revd David Walsh on his sabbatical in Korea visiting the link diocese churches, leading services in Seoul Cathedral and getting to learn more about this fascinating country.
Korean Bishops Visit to Peterborough Diocese
Following the inspiring Lambeth Conference, Bishop John was delighted to welcome our Korean link Bishops to the diocese.
Ministers' Conference
The 2022 Ministers' Conference will take place 7-10 November at Yarnfield Park Training Centre in Staffordshire. The theme of the Conference is Rejoice in Hope.
Bishop of Peterborough announces retirement
In a letter to the Diocese on 3 July, Bishop Donald has announced his intention to retire in January 2023.
Welcomes & Farewells
We welcome people to new roles in the Diocese and wish farewell to those leaving for pastures new.

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