Inter-Diocesan Consultation Process

Background

In December 2025, Pope Leo appointed the Bishop of Leeds, Marcus Stock, as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Middlesbrough, following the retirement of Bishop Terence Drainey.

In his letter of appointment, the Holy Father asked Bishop Marcus to look at ways of collaborating between the Dioceses of Leeds and Middlesbrough, and examine the possibility of merger (the two having separated from the Diocese of Beverley in 1878).
Bishops Marcus Stock (left) and Terry Drainey (right).
In March 2026, following the retirement of Ralph Heskett as the Bishop of Hallam, Pope Leo likewise appointed Bishop Marcus as Apostolic Administrator of that diocese, with a view to looking at possible collaboration / merger of the three Yorkshire dioceses.

This prompted a process of consultation among the lay faithful, religious, clergy, and institutions of the three dioceses. 
The Catholic Dioceses of Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Hallam
​are all part of the Metropolitan Province of Liverpool 

Updates


© Parish of Our Lady's 2026
Our Lady's Church Parish House, Cornlands Road, Acomb, York, YO24 3DX   Tel. 01904 791242
​
A Parish of
​The Diocese of Middlesbrough
Registered Charity​ 233748