Bishop of Dover to speak in Bristol
St John’s Church, Keynsham will welcome one of the Church of England’s most senior and respected leaders this spring as part of its 750 Appeal fundraising programme.
The Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin CD MBE KHC, Bishop of Dover, will appear in conversation at a special literary and inspirational evening on Friday 17 April 2026.
The event will feature a live interview exploring Bishop Rose’s life, ministry and leadership, followed by an audience question-and-answer session. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase copies of her book The Girl from Montego Bay and have them signed.
Bishop Rose currently serves as Bishop of Dover in the Diocese of Canterbury and exercises delegated episcopal oversight on behalf of the Archbishop of Canterbury. She previously served as Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons for nine years and has been Chaplain to Her Majesty the Queen. In 2019 she made history as the first black woman appointed as a bishop in the Church of England.
The evening forms part of St John’s 750 Appeal, which is supporting ongoing redevelopment plans aimed at ensuring the church remains a vibrant and sustainable space for worship, community events and outreach.
Cllr Dave Biddleston, who will conduct the interview, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that Bishop Rose has agreed to join us at St John’s. She is an extraordinary speaker with a remarkable story, and this promises to be a thoughtful, uplifting and genuinely inspiring evening. I would strongly encourage people from across the community to come along — whether you’re a regular churchgoer or simply interested in leadership, faith and public service. It will be a fantastic event and a wonderful way to support the future of St John’s.”
The event is ticketed at £13.00 with proceeds going towards the St John’s 750 Appeal. A licensed bar and refreshments will be available, and doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm start.
Tickets can be obtained online here or from Keynsham Parish Office, call 01179 4545920.
