The Next Bishop of Leeds

Cathedral Deans promise prayers and support for next Bishop of Leeds

The Deans of Bradford, Ripon and Wakefield have today welcomed the appointment of The Right Reverend Dr Toby Howarth, currently Bishop of Bradford and Acting Bishop of Leeds, as the new Bishop of Leeds.

The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Diocese of Leeds, which serves communities across West, North, and South Yorkshire. The Diocese is unique within the Church of England in having three cathedrals – Bradford, Ripon, and Wakefield – which work together in supporting the ministry and mission of the diocesan bishop.

Bishop Toby will succeed The Right Reverend Nicholas Baines, who retired in 2025 after more than a decade of ministry in the Diocese.

John Dobson (Dean of Ripon), Philip Hobday (Dean of Wakefield), and Jonathan Triffitt (Dean of Bradford), commented, “We were delighted to learn that Bishop Toby Howarth is to be the Bishop of Leeds. He will bring prayerfulness, experience, and energy to leading this large and lively diocese in the coming years.  As he steps into this significant and demanding role serving our diverse range of churches and communities, we will do all we can to support him, not least by praying for him daily in each of his three cathedrals, in each of which he will be welcomed warmly.”

Over the coming months, Bishop Toby will be welcomed to all three cathedrals and its five Episcopal Areas as part of the beginning of this new ministry. Bradford, Ripon, and Wakefield Cathedrals each play a distinctive role in the worship, witness and civic life of the Diocese while sharing in its common mission to serve communities across the region.

Further information about services of welcome and opportunities to meet Bishop Toby in his new role will be announced in due course.

To read the Downing Street announcement click here.

For information from the Diocese of Leeds click here.