THE Acting Bishop of Winchester has been appointed as the next Bishop of Peterborough.

Downing Street announced that the Rt Rev Debbie Sellin, currently also the Bishop of Southampton, will assume the position next year.

Bishop Debbie joined the Diocese of Winchester in 2019 as Bishop of Southampton and then served as Acting Bishop of Winchester from 2021 following the retirement of Bishop Tim Dakin.

She said: “I am really excited about the new opportunities and new challenges and getting to know the people of Peterborough diocese.

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“But of course, there is a bittersweetness in leaving. Winchester Diocese is a wonderful place to be where I have encountered beautiful people and beautiful places and it has been a joy and a huge privilege to minister here.”

“I would be so grateful if you would be praying for me – that I am able to discern who God wants me to be in the new role. And of course, I will be praying for you, and you will be dear to my heart always.”

Born in Dumfries, Scotland, Bishop Debbie was ordained in Guildford Diocese in 2008 following a first career in NHS management and then working as the family and children’s worker for her church.

She served her curacy at St Saviour, Guildford from 2007 to 2010, before acting as Vicar of Wonersh from 2010 to 2019 and Area Dean of Cranleigh from 2015 to 2019.

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Bishop Philip Mountstephen, who will take over the role of Bishop of Winchester in January 2024, said: “I’m just delighted that Bishop Debbie has been called to be the next Bishop of Peterborough, and I know that the prayers and thanks of very many people in the Diocese of Winchester will go with her.

“If I have one regret, it is that I won’t get to work with her, but I do know how very significant her ministry and leadership in the Diocese has been over the last two years, bringing a renewed sense of healing and hope. I, along with many others, thank God for her and pray for his rich blessing upon her and Paul for this next stage of life and ministry.”

Colin Harbidge, Diocesan secretary, said: “Debbie’s leadership and ministry across our diocese over the last four years has been nothing short of exceptional and I know she will be deeply missed by our colleagues, clergy and parishes.”