The King has given his formal approval for the appointment of The Venerable Malcolm Leslie Chamberlain as the new Suffragan Bishop of Wakefield in the Diocese of Leeds. This significant appointment marks a new chapter in Malcolm’s distinguished ministry, which has spanned multiple roles and responsibilities within the Church of England.
Malcolm’s educational background is rooted in the University of York, where he pursued his academic interests before training for ministry at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. His ordination as a Priest in 1997 marked the beginning of a fruitful ministry, which has been characterized by a deep commitment to serving diverse communities and fostering spiritual growth.
One of Malcolm’s early appointments was as Associate Minister at St Matthew and St James, Mossley Hill, in the Diocese of Liverpool. This role not only enabled him to develop his pastoral skills but also afforded him the opportunity to work as an Associate Anglican Chaplain at the University of Liverpool. The latter role allowed him to engage with students and staff, providing spiritual support and guidance.
In 2002, Malcolm’s ministry took a pioneering turn when he was appointed as Anglican Chaplain to the University of Liverpool and an Emerging Church Consultant for the Diocese of Liverpool. This innovative role involved planting and leading a new worshipping community for young adults in Liverpool city centre. Malcolm’s passion for evangelism and his ability to connect with diverse groups of people made him an ideal candidate for this role.
Malcolm’s subsequent appointments have included serving as Priest-in-Charge at St Mary’s, Wavertree, and as Area Dean of Toxteth and Wavertree. His leadership skills and ability to build strong relationships with clergy and laity alike have been evident in these roles.
In 2014, Malcolm was appointed as Archdeacon of Sheffield and Rotherham, a position that has enabled him to exercise strategic leadership within the Diocese of Sheffield. As a member of the College of Archbishops’ Evangelists, Malcolm has been part of a group of senior clergy who have been tasked with promoting evangelism and discipleship within the Church of England.
Malcolm’s commitment to the wider Church is evident in his membership of the General Synod since 2015 and the Mission and Public Affairs Council since 2016. These roles have enabled him to contribute to national debates and policy-making within the Church of England.
On a personal level, Malcolm is married to Jo, and they have two children in their early twenties. His interests outside of ministry include collecting vinyl records and attending gigs, as well as being a lifelong supporter of Leicester City.
As Malcolm prepares to take up his new role as Suffragan Bishop of Wakefield, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to evangelism and discipleship, and a passion for serving diverse communities. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter in the life of the Diocese of Leeds, and his ministry will undoubtedly be a blessing to the people and communities he will serve.
