New bishop for our neighbours

Pope Francis has appointed the Rt Rev Stephen Wright as the 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle.

Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols said: “Bishop Stephen brings a wealth of diocesan pastoral experience to his new role.

“With the publication of the CSSA report, and with this appointment, the people, priests and religious of the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle can look forward with hope and confidence. Please remember the new bishop in your prayers.”

Bishop Stephen said: “I will be serving in an area I am not familiar with, and I am painfully aware that you have suffered hurt and shock in recent months.

“But I trust that God’s grace is indeed enough for us all when we accept it into our hearts and minds, cooperate with it and serve.”

Bishop Stephen, who recently became chair of CAFOD’s board of trustees, will be installed at St Mary’s Cathedral, Newcastle, on Wednesday July 19.

Deadline July 7 for our August edition.

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