Today, The Right Revd Dr Alan Smith, Bishop of St Albans, has announced his intention to retire on 31 May.

After 16 years of ministry in the Diocese, Bishop Alan will be moving back to his childhood county of Wiltshire. 

Dean Jo said, "As the Mother Church of the Diocese of St Albans we are so very grateful for the faithful and generous leadership of Bishop Alan Smith. He has encouraged and inspired us to Live God's Love and cared deeply for the communities of this Diocese. Bishop Alan has also served our nation with wisdom and dedication in the House of Lords as a Lord Spiritual. We pray for him as he prepares for retirement and for our Diocese in this time of transition". 

Bishop Alan said that it had been the privilege of his life to serve as the Bishop of St Albans, but as he turns 68 next month, the time had come to lay down his responsibilities and to hand the baton of leadership on to whomever the Lord calls to succeed him.

In the spring there will be opportunities to thank and say farewell to Bishop Alan.

📷 Toby Shepheard