Many Congratulations to Hugh Nelson on his appointment as the next Bishop of Worcester.
I’m sure I speak for all of us at CTC when I say we will miss him, but he leaves a Cornwall which is greater for his witness over the last five years.
I was present when Hugh was first announced as Bishop of St Germans in 2020 – he appeared in a class of Cornish primary school children – and I was struck at how much of a challenge it must be to become a new bishop, carrying such a weight of expectation, as well as having to get to grips with finding your way around a new county and really understanding its hopes and challenges.
Over the last few years, as well as diocesan duties, he has been a champion for the marginalised and a wise counsel for many vital Cornish charities. Personally, I have valued his grace and support during challenging moments when perhaps decisions taken haven’t always worked out in the best way.
I think many of us will always value Bishop Hugh leading us in quiet moments of prayer in the chapel at Epiphany House before our meetings. And even in the ‘hecticness’ of CTC and charity decision-making, he has always reminded us that prayer underpins everything and that hearing what God is telling us will steer us all on the right path.
Bishop Hugh succeeds Rt Rev Dr John Inge as the 114th Bishop of Worcester and in an interview with Premier Christian News he said he was filled with “joy” and “excitement” about stepping into the role next year…
“The deep down feeling I have had… has been one of overwhelming gratitude,” and he asked for prayers to help keep his heart soft “to really listen, to really hear, and get to know the communities, what God is doing in and amongst them”.
Those of us who have worked a little with Hugh in a charity role will appreciate his crystal-clear decision-making and foresight – as well as a willingness to always try to find a space in a packed diary to problem-solve! And it was always good to have him host events such as ‘Meet the Funders’ for Transformation Cornwall which is a vital part of Cornwall’s social action.
So many thanks Bishop Hugh from all of us at CTC. We wish you and your family every blessing for your next chapter.
Author: Donna Birrell
Bishop Hugh Nelson Announcement, Truro Diocese, (https://trurodiocese.org.uk/2025/07/bishop-hugh-nelson-announcement)
Next Bishop of Worcester Announced, Church of England – Diocese of Worcester, https://www.cofe-worcester.org.uk/news/next-bishop-of-worcester-announced.php
