The Rt Rev Dr Joanne Grenfell has been legally confirmed as the new Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, becoming the first woman to lead the Church of England in Suffolk.
Her confirmation was formalised in a historic service at St Mary-le-Bow in London on 5 September, completing the legal process for her appointment.
Bishop Joanne, 53, previously served as Bishop of Stepney in the Diocese of London since 2019 and is currently the Church of England’s national lead on safeguarding.
“I am honoured to be called to this role,” she said. “This is a beautiful diocese, with truly lovely people and a grounded Suffolk sense of service and humility. I’m excited about getting to know Suffolk and its people better.”
Speaking about her vision, she added: “I hope to develop a culture where we can challenge and support each other to live out the good news of Jesus Christ. I’m keen to join in with what you’re already doing here with Growing in God, Lightwave, and Inspiring Ipswich.”
Dr Joanne succeeds the Right Rev Martin Seeley, who retired earlier this year after a decade of service.
The Rt Reverend Graeme Knowles, who had been acting bishop since Bishop Martin’s retirement, will continue to assist Bishop Joanne in an honorary role.
He said: “We are delighted with the appointment of Joanne who brings rich experience, including invaluable insight into safeguarding.”
She is expected to move into the Bishop’s House in Ipswich this autumn, with a local welcome service to follow.
A local welcome service is expected to be announced in due course.