https://www.stalbansdiocese.org/news/andrew-rumsey-next-bishop-st-albans-announcement/
The Church of England Bishop appointments are announced through a formal statement from 10 Downing Street. Once a candidate is selected, the name is submitted to the Prime Minister, who advises His Majesty King Charles III to nominate them.
This process from selection to public announcement is handled with strict confidentiality.
In Luton, we maintained the required confidentiality and on 19th March 2026, we were deeply honoured to welcome The Right Reverend Dr Andrew Rumsey, the new Bishop of St Albans Diocese, to Luton.
Luton’s faith leaders welcomed Bishop in different languages, and presented him with gifts associated with activities at their respective places of worship.
They admired the Diocese’s and the new Bishop’s commitment to work together with different faiths in addressing the challenges of rising populism, polarisation, and the hateful, extremist, and racist narratives affecting young people, women, and the elderly.
In a Facebook statement, the Luton Council of Faiths said, “This visit is marked not just by introduction, but by a genuine spirit of listening, humility and connection.”
“At a time when our communities can often feel divided or uncertain, moments like these remind us of what is still possible: people of different backgrounds, faiths and perspectives coming together with a shared desire for peace, understanding and the common good.”
“Dr Rumsey’s presence carried a quiet but powerful message, that leadership rooted in compassion, reflection and service still matters deeply in our society. As he begins this new chapter following his recent appointment, we recognise the significance of his role in shaping not only faith communities, but the wider civic and moral fabric of our region.”
“For us at Luton Council of Faiths, this was more than a visit. It was a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to building bridges, nurturing trust and standing together in the face of challenges. In Luton, we know that our strength has always been, and will continue to be, found in one another in the service of God and humanity. We look forward to working together in a spirit of respect, dialogue and shared commitment to the wellbeing of all.”
In her ‘Thank you’ message, Bishop’s Chaplain Revd Atalie Gaines said, “Bishop was overwhelmed with Luton faith leaders’ generosity and welcome. He looks forward to working further with them.”
