Pope Francis has appointed Bishop John Sherrington to be the new Archbishop of Liverpool. He will take over from Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, who has led the Archdiocese since 2014. Bishop Sherrington will officially become the Archbishop on Tuesday, 27 May, at a special ceremony in the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King at 12 noon.
Bishop Sherrington became a priest in 1987 in the Diocese of Nottingham. Since 2011, he has served as an Auxiliary Bishop in Westminster, helping with church duties in North London.
Archbishop McMahon said he is happy that Bishop Sherrington is taking over. He called him a man of prayer who loves Jesus and the Church. He said he is glad to welcome him and knows he will serve Liverpool well.
Bishop Sherrington said he feels honoured to be chosen and thanked Pope Francis for trusting him. He also sent good wishes to the Pope, who has been unwell. Bishop Sherrington said he looks forward to working with the people of Liverpool and continuing the Church’s mission of hope, faith, and joy. He also wants to build strong relationships with leaders of other Christian groups and other religions.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols also shared his happiness about the news. He said Bishop Sherrington has been a great help in Westminster and will be missed. He believes the people of Liverpool will welcome him warmly and support him in his new role.
About Bishop Sherrington
Bishop John Sherrington was born in Leicester in 1958. He studied mathematics at Cambridge University and worked in business before becoming a priest. He studied moral theology in Rome and taught in seminaries in Dublin and England. He has worked as a parish priest, teacher, and Church leader. He has also worked with international groups and charities like CAFOD, and has been involved in education and social justice.
About the Archdiocese of Liverpool
The Archdiocese of Liverpool includes the city of Liverpool and nearby areas such as Wigan, St Helens, Southport, and even the Isle of Man.
Source: Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales
