Diocese of Chichester

The Acting Bishop of Chichester said:

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of our next Bishop’s Liaison Officer for the LGBTQIA+ community. This role is an important expression of our ongoing commitment to be a Church that listens with humility, accompanies with compassion, and reflects more fully the inclusive love of Christ. As we continue to grow in understanding and pastoral care, the Liaison Officer will help foster dialogue, strengthen relationships, and ensure that LGBTQIA+ voices are heard, respected, and valued within our diocesan life. I look forward to the ministry that will emerge from Andrew’s appointment and to the deepening of trust, welcome, and mutual flourishing across our communities.’

Reverend Andrew said he would seek to ensure all were involved with the Church “irrespective” of sexual orientation or identity.

The post provides the diocese’s bishops and parishes with up-to-date information about the pastoral needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and builds bridges between the community and the Church of England.

The role also represents the church in the community offering pastoral support for a substantial group of people who feel “tolerated but not included” in the Church.

Fr Andrew was born in Chesterfield, in Derbyshire. 

Reading English language and literature at Ulster, he went on to study for a master’s degree looking at Evelyn Waugh, and a doctorate looking at the religious beliefs of Christopher Marlowe. Fr Andrew attended Cuddesden for his theological training.

He first took up a curacy in Warrington, Diocese of Chester and then went on to Morecambe, Diocese of Blackburn. Some thirty years ago he came to the Diocese of Chichester where he has been incumbent of St George’s church. Many things have happened over the thirty years including the building of a community centre, and working on Diocesan committees including social responsibilities, and buildings. His greatest joy has been fostering relationships between local people and the church.

As he takes up his new role, he will be attending the Kemp Town Community Pride event over pride weekend. An attempt to bring the focus of pride activities back to local people living, working and sharing together.

Revd Andrew said: 

“I am very much looking forward to building relationships with clergy and laity across the Diocese and in particular ensuring that all are included as part of the pastoral ministry of the Church, irrespective of their sexual orientation or identity.

“I am keen to build relationships with people who may hold differing views, so that together we can work in trust and respect for one another, for the good of all Jesus’ people and in particular those who are reaching out to develop their faith.

“My priority within all of this process is to ensure that all voices are heard and that you feel able to approach me and share your views openly”.

Fr Andrew will be commissioned by The Rt Revd William Hazlewood, Bishop of Lewes and Acting Bishop of Chichester, at Chichester Cathedral during Evensong on Sunday 9 August 2026 at 3.00pm.

All are warmly invited to attend the service. We kindly ask that those planning to come to please book in advance.

Clergy are invited to robe in choir dress, and general seating will be available in the Quire, Presbytery, and Nave on a first-come, first-served basis. Following the service, refreshments will be served in the Cathedral.