News & Stories - Diocese of Leicester

A New Chapter in Ministry

8th June 2026

The licensing of Revd Steve Bailey as Assistant Archdeacon was held during Morning Prayer at Bishop’s Lodge. Steve’s commissioning took place in a service that included Jesus’ words to Martha (Luke 10.38-end) - a reminder, in a distracted and demanding age, that faithful ministry begins in attentiveness to Christ, and that leadership is rooted in presence, listening and prayer, not just busyness. Currently Team Rector in the Benefice of Oadby Great Glen, and remaining in post, Steve will be stepping down from his role as Area Dean of Gartree to carry out his Assistant Archdeacon duties.

Steve Bailey’s licensing as Assistant Archdeacon (1).jpg

Should Clergy Use AI?

8th June 2026

A statement from the Rt Revd Martyn Snow, Lord Bishop of Leicester, on the use of AI (artificial intelligence) by church leaders.

Growing Church and Intercultural Communities

8th June 2026

Recent news in the diocese has brought some really encouraging stories to light, with a significant rise in baptisms and growing numbers of people coming to church, particularly from global majority heritage backgrounds. But this growth hasn’t happened overnight. It reflects years of intentional work through one of the diocese’s key priorities, Intercultural Communities and the Intercultural Worshipping Community Project.

A Sunny Celebration of the Call to Lay Ministry

1st June 2026

The sun shone on Saturday (23 May 2026) for the Called Together service at Leicester Cathedral, as we lifted high and celebrated our lay ministers and the ministry they carry out across the Diocese.

Blessing the Boundary and Celebrating Community Cohesion Through Cricket

1st June 2026

Leicestershire and Rutland Cricket Foundation marked the start of the new cricket season with its annual Season Blessing. The event included a multi-faith blessing by religious and community leaders from across Leicestershire, in a service led by the Ven Richard Trethewey, Archdeacon of Leicester, and was a celebration of unity, reflection and community spirit.

Bishop Martyn Visits Leicester’s Romanian Orthodox Community

27th May 2026

Bishop Martyn recently met with Father Stefan and members of Leicester’s Romanian Orthodox community. During the visit, he was shown around the church and spoke with the congregation about the challenges they have faced in migrating to Leicester, as well as their desire to play an active part in the city’s community life and wider ecumenical relationships.

Cursillo and a Weekend of Faith, Friendship and Renewal

26th May 2026

The Cursillo weekend is often described as a pilgrimage and church members are invited to take part as pilgrims. It offers a simple introduction to the purpose of Cursillo and to the way it supports ongoing faith development within the life of the Church. The weekend is relaxed and centres on spiritual growth through prayer, study, and action.

Bishop’s Study Day Explores Christians and Politics

26th May 2026

Clergy and lay leaders recently gathered for a Bishop’s Study Day on the theme of Christians and Politics, to learn more about how our faith inspires our engagement with social and political issues.

Working Together to Strengthen Safeguarding Across Minster Communities

18th May 2026

*The following article references safeguarding.* As Minster Communities form across the diocese, Parish Safeguarding Coordinators (PSCs) are coming together to support one another in a role that is never meant to be carried alone. By meeting regularly, they are building confidence, sharing good practice, and strengthening safeguarding across their parishes.

Preaching Well Learning Community 2026

15th May 2026

A new Learning Community for preachers and potential preachers will launch in the diocese this October. Led by Bishop Saju, the course focuses on the craft of preaching, its content, and the character of the preacher.