From the Diocese of Middlesbrough
Latest diocesan liturgies, messages and events from our local church.
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Consultation by Bishop Marcus Stock.
Bishop Marcus Stock has launched a consultation regarding the future of the Diocese of Middlesbrough alongside the dioceses of Leeds and Hallam. A form can be accessed online if you would like to prayerfully contribute to this reflection
Pope appoints Bishop Marcus Apostolic Administrator of Hallam
20 Mar, 2026
Bishop Marcus Stock
Following the resignation of the Right Reverend Ralph Heskett CSsR as Bishop of Hallam, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Marcus Stock as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Hallam.
This appointment is in addition to his office as Bishop of Leeds and additional responsibilities as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Middlesbrough.
"I feel very humbled by the trust which His Holiness has placed in me with these appointments," said Bishop Marcus. “The Holy Father has requested that I begin a consultation with the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of Hallam about a possible reunification with the Diocese of Leeds, from part of which Hallam was created in May 1980.
"While the potential changes that we are being asked to study together may present us with challenges, they will also offer us opportunities to strengthen our service of the mission which Christ has entrusted to His Church and to renew our vigour in responding to the work of evangelisation."
Bishop Stock paid tribute to Bishop Ralph Heskett who has now retired as Bishop of Hallam.
"Let us give thanks to Almighty God for the ministry that Bishop Heskett has given so devotedly as Shepherd of the Diocese of Hallam over the past twelve years," said Bishop Marcus. "We pray that the Lord will grant him health and strength as he begins his retirement."
