Although the policies, practices and activity across the Diocese is synodically governed, the Diocese is led, inspired and encouraged by the Diocesan Bishop, the Bishop of Newcastle.
The Bishop keeps in touch with all aspects of diocesan life through a team of senior colleagues who each have their own connections, contacts and networks across the Diocese which allow them to stay informed.
This supports the Bishop in her role and helps her to make decisions on the best ways to support parishes in carrying forward the diocesan vision to inspire all those serving in parishes to turn outwards in mission and ministry, growing younger and more diverse by SEEKING through being open to God's transforming love, SHARING through being Generous with God's transforming gifts and SENDING through being engaged in God's transforming work in the world.
Use this section to explore more about the leadership team and how you can contact them.
Meet the team
The Dean of Newcastle +
The Dean is the most senior post at Newcastle Cathedral and has an important role in developing the church's place in civic life. The current Dean of Newcastle is the Very Reverend Lee Batson who was installed during a service at Newcastle Cathedral on 14 October 2023. Read more.
Email: dean@newcastlecathedral.org.uk | Tel: (0191) 232 1939
The Diocesan Secretary +
The Diocesan Secretary is the senior executive officer in the diocese, overseeing all aspects of operations to ensure delivery of the vision and strategy. Shane Waddle is the current Diocesan Secretary.
Email: s.waddle@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: 0191 270 4114
The Archdeacons of Northumberland and Lindisfarne
The Archdeacon of Northumberland +
The Archdeacon of Northumberland is responsible for the south east parts of the Diocese of Newcastle that form the Northumberland Archdeaconry. The current Archdeacon of Northumberland is The Venerable Rachel Wood.
Email: northumberland@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: 0191 270 4157 | Mobile: 07469 950 198
Personal Assistant: Katherine Govier
Email: k.govier@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 270 4142
The Archdeacon of Lindisfarne +
The Archdeacon of Lindisfarne is responsible for the parts of the Diocese of Newcastle that form the Lindisfarne Archdeaconry. The current Archdeacon of Lindisfarne is The Venerable Catherine Sourbut Groves.
Email: lindisfarne@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 270 4166 | Mobile: 07436 220872
Personal Assistant: Katherine Govier
Email: k.govier@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 270 4142
Archdeacons are close to Deanery and parish life, advising and supporting clergy and lay leaders.
The Director of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry +
The Director of Mission and Ministry oversees the development of diocesan-wide projects to help grow the church numerically and to deepen the faith of all worshipping communities across the Diocese. This position is currently vacant.
The Bishops Chaplain +
The Revd Canon Peter Askew is the Bishop's Chaplain. He administratively and pastorally supports the Bishop. Contact him regarding pastoral matters relating to clergy or liturgical arrangements for services the Bishop is involved in.
Email: p.askew@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 285 2220
Other contributing roles
The Bishops Senior Leadership Team draws on the experience of a wide range of expertise from across the Diocese, inviting officers and advisers to attend from time to time:
Director of Communications +
Roderick Stuart leads the Communications Team for both Durham and Newcastle dioceses. He provides advice on how to ensure that the key leadership messages are heard across the Diocese.
