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 his role and helps him to make decisions on the best ways to support parishes in carrying forward the diocesan vision and strategy and to inspire all those serving in parishes to bless our communities in Jesus name for the transformation of us all.
Use this section to explore more about the leadership team and how you can contact them.
Meet the team
The Bishop of Newcastle +
On 20 October, Downing Street announced the appointment of the Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, currently Bishop of Ripon, as the next Bishop of Newcastle. The appointment was approved by Her Late Majesty The Queen. Bishop Mark continues to hold the role of ‘Acting Bishop of Newcastle’ until Bishop Helen-Ann takes on her new role, some time in 2023. Read more.
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. Following the retirement of the Very Reverend Geoff Miller, on 19 December 2022, the Right Revd Mark Wroe, Acting Bishop of Newcastle, announced the appointment of the Very Reverend Dr Jane Hedges as Interim Dean of Newcastle. 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. Canon 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 4142 | Mobile: 07469 950 198
Personal Assistant: Katherine Govier
Email: k.govier@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 266 1554
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 4142
Personal Assistant: Katherine Govier
Email: k.govier@newcastle.anglican.org | Tel: (0191) 266 1554
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.
