“Deaneries are a vital element in the functioning of the diocese: they have a part to play in the decision-making structures, and they are also crucial in helping us understand both the richness and the challenges that exist across the diocese.”
Bishop Michael
The Diocese of Bath and Wells has 18 deaneries, within the three archdeaconries of Bath, Taunton and Wells. Deaneries differ in size, but most are made of around 20 to 30 parishes grouped together in benefices. Deaneries, their leaders and their synods have an important role in shaping ministry and mission in our diocese and, through synodical government, in the Church of England.
The role of our deaneries has grown and evolved with deanery leadership shared between Area Deans and Lay Deans and each deanery takes responsibility for local planning which aims encourage growth and discipleship in the local area and makes proposals on strategic matters such as ministry resources and pastoral reorganisation.
Below are some resources for you to access directly.
Pastoral reorganisation
Since 2023, deaneries across our diocese have been involved in significant pastoral reorganisation. You will find guidance on the process in the Deanery Handbook.
We have also put together
- Some simple learning on the informal consultation stage of proposed pastoral reorganisation, which you may find helpful.
- Support for benefices and incumbents in parishes affected by proposed pastoral reorganisation looking to begin to work together. Please speak with your Archdeacon to ensure you are able to access the support available from the Ministry Training, and Deanery and Parish Support teams.
Deanery and Parish Development Advisers
Each archdeaconry has a designated Deanery and Parish Development Adviser to support deaneries in their work, so don’t hesitate to make use of them. They have a broad remit and can offer both a sounding board and support in helping you review and refresh ministry and mission in your context. Amongst other things, the team are all skilled in facilitation, as well as having particular remits around rural ministry, Magnificat contexts, peacebuilding and developing teams. Please do get in touch with one of the advisers for your archdeaconry, even if all you want to do is to talk something through and receive some encouragement.
Sandra O’Shea and Helen Fenn work alongside Claire, Rob and Caroline. Please note that all of the team work part-time and share work between them.
Each deanery also has a Deanery Accompanier from diocesan Support Services.
Who to contact
Julia Hill
Head of Mission Support and Ministry Development
Rob Walrond
Deanery and Parish Development Adviser (Taunton Archdeaconry) / Rural Adviser (p/t)
Claire Horton
Deanery and Parish Development Adviser (Bath Archdeaconry) / Magnifcat Advocate (p/t)
Caroline Bruce
Deanery and Parish Development Adviser (Wells Archdeaconry)
Sandra O'Shea
Deanery and Parish Development Adviser (p/t)