A new Bishop for Sussex and Surrey

Catholics across Sussex and Surrey welcomed a new bishop on Monday 19 October, when Bishop Stephen Wang was ordained as the sixth Bishop of Arundel & Brighton.

Bishop Stephen converted to Catholicism as a teenager. Reflecting on his journey of faith in a speech at the end of the Mass, he said, “I’d come to know Jesus and his Church; I knew I wanted to belong, but I had no idea where it would lead.” He studied Theology at Cambridge University and later completed a PhD exploring the question of human happiness.

As a priest he was involved in parish and prison ministry, and went onto teach philosophy and theology, and work with university students.

At the Catholic university chaplaincy in London in 2014, he launched “Sycamore”, a faith formation programme used across the world. Parishioners at St George’s and St Wilfrid’s Catholic churches in Eastbourne Deanery follow the series, and like people across the Diocese have become extremely familiar with Bishop Stephen, as Sandra King explains: “Using Sycamore in sacramental preparation has given members of our parish a real connection with the new Bishop. We look forward to the vision and energy we are sure he will bring. Together, we hope to continue growing our families of faith and parish communities.”

"Children from St Clement’s Catholic Primary School in Ewell were among many who sent messages of support to Bishop Stephen. Oscar, Liliana, Zuri, Boe and Max shared that they were “excited that Bishop Stephen has been given the opportunity to show his faith” and “share new ideas” and encouraged him to “believe in his dreams, and trust in his heart and God.” They added, “Do not be afraid! It’s OK to ask for help!”

Welcoming Bishop Stephen, diocesan Trustee, Sr Jane Bertelsen assured him of the “prayers and support of people across the community” as he embraces his new ministry as “shepherd leader” of the Diocese. “As religious communities,” she said, “we are committed to participating in the unfolding mission of our Diocese as we seek to be a Church that reflects the face of God for our time.”

Bishop Stephen was appointed Rector of the Venerable English College, one of two English and Welsh seminaries in Rome training men for the priesthood, in 2021; he moved to West Sussex less than a month ago. At the end of the Mass, he highlighted a deep gratitude “to God for his goodness; to the Blessed Virgin Mary and all the saints; and to family and friends, living and dead.”

“What a wonderful diocese we have!” he added. “I’m truly grateful for the privilege of being your shepherd, your father, your brother... We have important work to do as a diocesan family: to grow in faithfulness and holiness, to care for those in need, and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those we meet.”

“I’ve felt remarkably peaceful over the last three months,” he continued, “It’s definitely a grace – the spiritual joy and consolation I’ve experienced since my appointment. I’m not complacent; I understand there will be challenges, but I know it’s all in God’s hands.”