The Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) for Bristol met in April and nominated a candidate for the See of Bristol. The individual has since decided, with regret, to withdraw from the nomination for family reasons.

The existing CNC for Bristol will reconvene as soon as possible to decide how to proceed.

The Bishop of Swindon, Bishop Neil Warwick, will continue to serve the diocese as Acting Bishop of Bristol.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, said: “I know many will be disappointed by this news and will appreciate how difficult the decision to withdraw was for the candidate.

“Please pray for them, their family and all those affected by this decision.

“I want to thank the Bishop of Swindon, Neil Warwick, for his ongoing service as Acting Bishop of Bristol, and everyone in the Diocese of Bristol who is working hard in this period of vacancy.

“Please also continue to pray for the Crown Nominations Commission as it reconvenes to seek God’s discernment for the next Bishop of Bristol.”

Diocese of Bristol Statement

The Diocese of Bristol has today released a statement, providing an update regarding the appointment of the next Bishop of Bristol. The full statement is as follows:

Today, we share an important update regarding the appointment of the next Bishop of Bristol. 

We had hoped to announce our new bishop at this time. However, due to family reasons, the person offered the role is no longer able to take it up. Let us hold them in our prayers at this time. 

People across our diocese may experience a range of thoughts and emotions in response to this news. As a diocese, may we remain steadfast in our faith, rooted in Christ, and guided by the Holy Spirit. Our Transforming Church. Together mission and priorities continue unchanged as we serve our communities, churches and one another with hope and commitment. 

We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary dedication shown every day by clergy, colleagues, chaplains, church officers, volunteers, and congregations across the diocese. Your faithful witness and service continue to shape and strengthen our lives together. 

Bishop Neil will continue to serve as Bishop of Swindon and Acting Bishop of Bristol throughout the Vacancy in See alongside gifted and faithful colleagues. This will enable stability, clarity, and continued momentum in our work and ministry, as we have experienced in the episcopal vacancy to date. 

In moments like this we are reminded that God’s mission is shared by all of us. Thank you for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support. 

An excerpt from our Vacancy in See prayer is apt for this moment: 

“May this time of waiting be filled with grace, anticipation, 

and a renewed sense of God’s mission in the world.”