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The Bishop of Peterborough
The 39th Bishop of Peterborough is the Right Reverend Debbie Sellin. Bishop Debbie was installed at a service in Peterborough Cathedral on 3 March 2024.
Bishop Debbie was brought up in a rectory surrounded by church life, but a clear calling to ordained ministry came later in life, being drawn initially to work in a caring profession which resulted in a career in NHS Management.
It was whilst Bishop Debbie was caring for her own young family that she felt a definite call to ministry which deepened over time, leading her to begin her ordination training in 2004. Whilst serving in parish ministry she also took on the additional role of Area Dean, something that gave her a wider perspective and introduced her to the workings of the Diocese. From these roles, she was appointed Bishop of Southampton, something she describes as ‘exciting and daunting at the same time’, but felt ‘a deep sense that this was what God wanted for me that only grew stronger and stronger’.
One of Bishop Debbie’s priorities is to encourage parishes to thrive. She is dedicated to helping parishes in all different contexts be the best they can be; guiding them through vacancies, celebrating those who are flourishing and coming alongside those who would welcome additional support. She is also dedicated to working with young people; her commitment to faith developing at a Crusaders youth group and leading to her starting full-time ministry as a Children and Families Worker.
The Bishops of Peterborough and Brixworth are supported by a central office. The Bishops' Office works very closely together, but each member has their own responsiblities.
Senior Chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough. This role supports the bishop in many areas, particularly liturgical matters and is the first port of call for confirmations and any services involving the Bishop. They are responsible for any CCSL and One Off PTO requests. This role is currently vacant, please email rachel.lomas@peterborough-diocese.org.uk for queries relating to any of the above.
Alex Tolley is Executive Assistant to the Bishop of Peterborough. She is responsible for administration relating to the Clergy. She is the named contact for GDPR matters in the bishops’ office and acts as secretary to a variety of the Bishop’s meetings.
Rachel Lomas is Personal Assistant to the Bishop of Peterborough She is responsible for the Diocesan Bishop’s diary. She manages the Bishops’ Office finances and distribution of grants to clergy. She has administrative oversight for Readers, lay minsters, lay workers and those wishing to be in touch with our Honorary Assistant Bishops.
Suzanne Carter is PA to the Bishop of Brixworth and the Bishop's Missioner. She has administrative oversight for PTO, ordinations and curates. She is the first point of contact for those who wish to apply for PTO.
Jo Oldaker is Administrator to the Bishops Office. She has administrative oversight of the DBS and Safeguarding training renewals as well as clergy file movements. She supports the whole office in their day to day work including arranging catering for a range of meetings and events.
The Bishops' Office is open Monday and Friday 9:30am - 2:30pm and Tuesday to Thursday 9:30am - 4:30pm, and can be contacted on 01733 562492 or please email one of the staff above.
To contact the Bishop direct, please email Bishop Debbie
