On Advent Sunday, the Bishop of Southwark, The Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, announced that he will retire on his 70th birthday in August 2026.

Bishop Christopher’s retirement will conclude 43 years of ordained ministry, more than twenty of which have been spent in episcopal service within the Diocese of Southwark. He was first appointed Area Bishop of Woolwich before becoming Bishop of Southwark in 2011, a role in which he has served with dedication and pastoral leadership.

The Very Revd Dr Mark Oakley, Dean of Southwark, said, "Bishop Christopher serves this diocese will breathtaking care and commitment. He is a pastor of real sensitivity, and an encourager to those whose ministries can be demanding and tiring. When the time comes, we will miss him enormously. In the meantime, we remain grateful for his ministry amongst us and look forward to the months we still have together."

In a letter to the Diocese, Bishop Christopher expressed his deep gratitude to the clergy and laity of Southwark, stating: “I am mindful of all that you have given generously and sacrificially, as clergy and lay people, to strengthen partnerships in the Gospel in the parishes and ministries to which you have been called. I thank God for you daily and ask for your prayers in these concluding months.”

Bishop Christopher’s final service will take place at Southwark Cathedral at 12pm on Saturday 18 July 2026.