Urban pioneer becomes new Bishop for East London

The Very Rev Adrian Newman has been appointed as the new Bishop of Stepney.

Rev Newman has been the current Dean of Rochester since 2005. 

He will formally take up his new post following a consecration service at St Paul’s Cathedral in July.

Rev Newman has a keen interest in urban churches and previously worked in parishes in East London, Sheffield and Birmingham. 

Last year, he spent his sabbatical researching the role of the church in addressing urban poverty.

In Rochester, he was responsible for leading the cathedral in its mission and ministry, representing the cathedral in its engagement with the wider community, and working as a member of the Bishop of Rochester’s senior staff.

He brings to his new role a passion for sport, fitting for a city that will soon be hosting the Olympics. He completed the London Marathon in 2006 and last year fulfilled a lifelong ambition to cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats.

Rev Newman succeeds the Rt Rev Stephen Oliver, who retired as Bishop of Stepney last year.

The Bishop of London, Dr Richard Chartres, welcomed the appointment.

“Adrian Newman's experience exactly matches the needs of the Stepney Area, as identified by the Area Council," he said.

"He has extensive, personal inner-city experience and chose to spend his sabbatical looking at the challenges of urban church life, following the Faith in the City report.

"I am delighted that Adrian has accepted my invitation to join the London team. He has much to offer this diocese - not least his own sporting prowess, with the 2012 Games in mind.”

Rev Newman said, “I began ministry as a curate in East London, just across the diocesan border in Forest Gate, so this is a homecoming to my ministerial roots.

"I’m drawn to the cutting edge nature of the church here, by its historic commitment to its community, by the quality of its clergy, and by the resilience, character and diversity of its people.”

“In 25 years of ordained ministry, my focus has been on community development and urban regeneration, growing churches to be outward-looking and encouraging Christians to be engaged with the real issues of life.

"The Stepney Area embraces such challenges and opportunities in equal measure, and I will look forward to serving it with all my heart in the years ahead.”

The Bishop of Rochester, Rt Rev James Langstaff added, “Adrian seems to me to be just the right person for this role. 

He will bring energy and imagination, undergirded by a life of prayer and a passion to see the church engage effectively in urban communities. He combines spiritual insight with pastoral wisdom and clear-headed strategic thinking.”

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