Dean of Gloucester elected as Bishop of Salisbury

The Dean of Gloucester will become the next Bishop of Salisbury.

The Queen has approved the nomination of The Very Reverend Stephen Lake for election as Bishop of Salisbury, in succession to The Right Reverend Nicholas Holtam following his retirement.

Stephen trained for ministry at Chichester Theological College. He served his title at Sherborne Abbey with Castleton and Lillington in the Diocese of Salisbury and was ordained Priest in 1989.

He became Vicar of Branksome St Aldhelm from 1992 and was additionally appointed Rural Dean of Poole in 2000. In 2001, Stephen was appointed Sub Dean of St Albans, and took up his current role as Dean of Gloucester in 2011.

In responding to his appointment Dean Stephen, said: ‘It is such a privilege and a joy to be called back to the Diocese of Salisbury as Bishop. To be able to serve in the places that formed me will be something rare and special. I will enjoy visiting Dorset and Wiltshire today and look forward to meeting as many people as possible on this announcement day.

Coming from leading a major cathedral I have a clear sense of the importance of great organisation, of good culture and rootedness in place. I hope to lead a confident diocese as we move out of the pandemic together.

After today, preparations can begin for this new ministry in the Diocese and in due course, with the Channel Islands, and I look forward to arriving just as soon as possible.’

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk