Rachel Treweek is the bishop designate for Gloucester and she comes to the diocese having served previously in a number of other ministries, including her current role as Archdeacon of Hackney. Before ordination she trained as a Speech and Language Therapist, a role she practised for more than six years, during which time she became interested in family dynamics and trained in ‘Couples and Family Therapy’. She is married to Guy who is currently priest in charge of two parishes in the City of London.
On 26th March 2015, Her Majesty the Queen appointed the Venerable Rachel Treweek, Archdeacon of Hackney in the Diocese of London, as the next Bishop of Gloucester. Rachel Treweek will be the first female Diocesan Bishop in the Church of England following legislation passed last year enabling women as Bishops. The Venerable Rachel Treweek will be formally enthroned at Gloucester Cathedral later this year.
Overwhelming feeling is one of excitement
Hello, I’m Rachel Treweek, currently the Archdeacon of Hackney in the Diocese of London. It is an immense joy and privilege to be appointed as the Bishop of Gloucester. I am surprised and, I have to admit, even a little daunted by the prospect, but my overwhelming feeling is one of excitement. I’m greatly looking forward to meeting you, listening to you and us getting to know each other.
Connecting with people, wherever they are and whatever their concerns
It will be my privilege to work with churches as we connect with people, wherever they are and whatever their concerns. My calling to the role of bishop has been shaped by human encounter. I believe profoundly that relationship is at the heart of who God is. I have been with people through the joys and pains of their lives and it is these experiences that I will reflect upon as I take up this new role.
I’m looking forward to finding out what’s currently going on in churches, chaplaincies and the many places of people’s daily lives throughout Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas. I have much to learn and hopefully much to offer too.
Residents of the Diocese have been invited to join in the conversation and share their thoughts on Facebook and Twitter, using the hashtag #newbish
What others are saying –
The Rt Revd Libby Lane, Bishop of Stockport:
“I congratulate Rachel on her nomination as Bishop of Gloucester. She is an exceptional priest whose leadership is well proven. She is both genuinely caring and deeply insightful. It has been an honour to serve alongside Rachel as Regional Representatives in the House of Bishops, and I rejoice that she takes her place there as of right.”
The Most Revd Desmond Tutu, emeritus Archbishop of Cape Town:
“What fantastic news. Wow, how wonderful so soon after Bishop Libby. I’m thrilled for you dear Rachel and I’m thrilled for the Diocese of Gloucester, for the Church of England, for the Church of God and for all of us. Yippee.”
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