New Bishop of Barking appointed to minister to Newham

Peter Hill with the Archdeacon John Perumbalath. Peter was announced as the new Bishop of Barking in succession to the Rt Revd David Hawkins. (Image: Archant)

Rev Peter Hill, 64, is a grandfather-of-two who, says his interests include pilgrimage walking, education, rock music and all sports, “especially Welsh rugby”.

Bishop Peter, whose new role was announced at St Margaret’s Church in Barking on Friday, said being Bishop of Barking would be a “privilege”.

He said: “The call of God to be a bishop has come unexpectedly and I am both excited and daunted by the task that lies ahead.

“As Bishop of Barking I very much look forward to taking a lead in the Episcopal Area with its rich diversity of faiths and culture, and engaging fully in its public life. “

His appointment comes follows the retirement of Rev David Hawkins in March after 11 years in the role.

Reflecting on his previous role as Archdeacon of Nottingham, Bishop Peter said: “An Archdeacon is a bit like being the drummer in a rock band, who provides the back beat, to hold things together for the other band members to improvise and build their music on - With the occasional drum solo along the way!”

The current Archdeacon of West Ham, the Venerable Elwin Cockett, said: “Christians in east London will give a warm welcome to our new bishop and his family.

“People in this part of the diocese are drawn from all corners of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and we look forward very much to having Bishop Peter among us, bringing with him his unique skills, experience and insights.”

The position of Bishop of Barking, like all senior positions in the Church of England, is officially appointed by Her Majesty the Queen.

Peter will be consecrated as Bishop of Barking at St Paul’s Cathedral on July 26, and is expected to begin his ministry in September.

As well as the whole of Newham, the Bishop of Barking covers Havering, Redbridge, Waltham Forest, and parts of Essex.