Dr Toby Howarth named as next Bishop of Leeds

Bishop Toby will be the second Bishop of Leeds, following the retirement of Bishop Nick Baines in November 2025. He has served as the Area Bishop of Bradford in the diocese since 2014 and has been Acting Bishop of Leeds since Bishop Nick’s retirement.

Bishop Toby said: “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. 

"Joy to be working with such a rich diversity of churches and cathedrals, schools and chaplaincies, faith and community partners, businesses, institutions and statutory services filled with people of goodwill working in often challenging contexts. 

"Joy to be part of such a committed and talented diocesan staff team.

“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.”

Read the full announcement on the Diocese of Leeds website.