The consecration of the next Bishop of Warwick has been postponed following complaints.
Canon Tim Lomax, a residentiary canon of St Albans and Director of Mission and Ministry in the Diocese of St Albans, was due to become a suffragan bishop in the Diocese of Coventry on 6th November. But a statement issued by the diocese said it had been advised that “further enquiries should be undertaken following complaints” which had been received after his appointment was announced.
It stressed that “at this early stage no findings have been made and no conclusions have been reached”, adding that “sufficient time will now be given for this assessment to be conducted. We are committed to taking seriously the experiences of all those involved, and want to assure you that all concerned are receiving appropriate support”.
The diocese said it recognised “this will be disappointing news for many people across the Diocese of Coventry and beyond, particularly those who have been looking forward to welcoming Canon Lomax into this ministry”.
According to Church Times, the complaints are being looked into by the National Safeguarding Team (NST), but don't relate to children or young people. It’s also understood the complaints aren’t connected to Canon Tim’s time as a Visitor, providing oversight and pastoral support to Soul Survivor Watford. A review published in 2024 found that weak governance, unchecked power and a culture that discouraged challenge allowed abusive behaviour to go unchallenged for years within Soul Survivor Watford, which sits within the Diocese of St Albans.
The Bishop of St Albans Rt Rev Dr Andrew Rumsey said in a statement that Canon Tim and his wife, Kate, had been granted a period of special leave. He added that “we will share further news as soon as we are able, and I ask that you keep this matter, and all those involved, in your prayers”.
At the time of his appointment as the next Bishop of Warwick in September 2026, Canon Tim said he felt "a deep sense of joy" and was "looking forward to getting to know the people and places of Coventry and Warwickshire, listening to their stories and discovering where God is already at work and where the Holy Spirit may be opening new possibilities”.