Welcome to the Diocese of Worcester
The Diocese of Worcester is one of 41 (42 including the Diocese in Europe) that make up the Church of England. The Diocese of Worcester also forms part of the Province of Canterbury. It was founded in around 679 by St Theodore of Canterbury for the tribe of the Hwicce.
Under God, we in the Diocese seek to serve 895,000 people over an area of 670 square miles through 168 parishes and 272 churches, covering the County of Worcestershire, the Metropolitan Borough of Dudley, with a few parishes in northern Gloucestershire, southeast Wolverhampton and Sandwell. The Diocese ranges from the culturally diverse urban north to the mainly agricultural rural south, both of which provide a great range of opportunities and challenges.
We cherish the variety and distinctiveness of all God’s people and the gifts they bring. Our churches offer welcome, care and hope in Christ’s name; chaplains minister in workplace and agricultural settings, and in hospitals, hospices, prisons and educational establishments. We are active in the education offered to 22,000 children in our 100 church schools. Social action, social justice, and concern for the environment are vital elements of our mission.
We have always been a diocese that believes that the church exists to serve those who are not - or not yet - its members.
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As a Diocese we are committed to mission in every aspect, seeking to bring the good news of God's love in Jesus to all who live in the cities, towns and villages, and to make the gospel relevant to their everyday lives.
Our diocesan vision is to grow as Kingdom People, sharing the good news of Jesus’ love in Worcestershire and Dudley. As the body of Christ, we join together to worship God, make disciples, share hope, and transform communities. Read more about our diocesan vision.
Understanding Church Structures
The Church of England is quite a complex organisation, and has its own specialist language for describing itself and its activities. It’s not only confusing for new members. People who have been regular worshippers, but have now stepped up to be volunteer trustees and committee members, are often greeted with a whole new set of acronyms and terms.
This page is here to point you to some explainers and resources which will help you navigate your way round the Church of England and Diocese of Worcester with more confidence.
Our Bishops
The diocese is led by the Bishop of Worcester, supported by the suffragan Bishop of Dudley.
Our Archdeacons
The diocese is divided into two archdeaconries - Worcester and Dudley, who each have their own Archdeacon.
Diocesan Staff
Find out who does what in the Diocesan office and how to contact them. Find out more.
Deaneries
The diocese is divided up into six deaneries. Each deanery has an Area Dean and a Lay Chair who are jointly responsible for pastoral care and co-ordination between the parishes. Find out more.
Leadership and Governance
The diocese is served by a number of boards, committees and working groups including Diocesan Synod, Bishop's Council, the DAC and the DBE. Find out more.
Our Churches
Within the diocese we have 168 parishes and 272 churches, find your nearest church here and find out more about Worcester Cathedral.
Annual Review and Report
- Download our full Annual Report and Accounts (You may find it useful to read it alongside: Understanding our accounts)
- Download the most recent poster about the Diocese that we have sent out to be displayed in churches.