The Rt Revd Dr Toby Howarth has been nominated as the next Bishop of Leeds, the Prime Minister’s office announced today, following approval by the King. Dr Howarth will be the second person to hold the diocesan post since the creation of the role and succeeds the Rt Revd Nick Baines, who retired in November 2025.
Local continuity after a period of interim leadership
Dr Howarth has served in the Diocese of Leeds for more than a decade. He has been the Area Bishop of Bradford since 2014 and took on the duties of the diocesan bishop in an acting capacity following Bishop Baines’s retirement. The appointment brings an element of continuity for the diocese at a time when churches and community partners are navigating financial and social pressures.
Priorities and approach
In response to his election, Dr Howarth described a mixture of personal joy and a sense of responsibility about the tasks ahead. He highlighted his enthusiasm for working across a diverse diocese encompassing churches, cathedrals, schools, chaplaincies and a range of civic and community institutions.
“I have a deep sense of joy and longing. Joy to have been called to serve as Bishop of Leeds in this glorious diocese that I’ve grown to love over the last twelve years… But also longing. Longing for us all to experience more and more of God’s abundant love in Jesus transforming our lives, our homes and our communities.”
Archbishop Stephen of York welcomed the appointment, underlining Dr Howarth’s record on interfaith engagement and his knowledge of the diocese. The archbishop said he was pleased Dr Howarth would "lead the next chapter" of the church’s witness in the area.
What this means for Leeds
The new diocesan bishop will be responsible for delivering the Diocese of Leeds’s stated vision of "becoming confident Christians, growing churches and transforming communities." Dr Howarth has indicated he will spend the coming weeks consulting widely with church and civic partners to shape how the diocese supports local ministry, stewardship and mission amid contested budgets and evolving community needs.
- Approved by the King and announced by the Prime Minister’s office.
- Area Bishop of Bradford since 2014; Acting Bishop of Leeds since November 2025.
- Expected to focus on mission, interfaith dialogue and diocesan sustainability.
| Position | Dates |
|---|---|
| Area Bishop of Bradford | 2014–present |
| Acting Bishop of Leeds | From Nov 2025 |
As Dr Howarth prepares to assume the full responsibilities of diocesan bishop, local civic bodies, schools and charities will be watching for signals about priorities, resource allocation and how the diocese plans to engage with the city’s social and economic challenges. The coming weeks of consultation he has pledged will be important for shaping those expectations and clarifying how the church aims to support communities across Leeds and the wider diocese.
