Stephen Cottrell

Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell is a prominent figure within the Church of England, currently serving as the Archbishop of York. This position makes him the second-most senior bishop in the church and the most senior in northern England. His tenure as Archbishop of York began on July 9, 2020.

Early Life and Ordained Ministry

Born on August 31, 1958, in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, Cottrell received his early education at Belfairs High School. He pursued higher education at the Polytechnic of Central London, graduating with a BA in media studies in 1979. His theological training for ordination took place at St Stephen's House, Oxford, from 1981 to 1984. He was ordained a deacon in 1984 and a priest in 1985. His early ministry included roles as a curate in Forest Hill, priest in charge of St Wilfrid's Church in Chichester, and diocesan missioner for the Diocese of Wakefield, before becoming canon pastor at Peterborough Cathedral.

Episcopal Ministry

Cottrell's episcopal career began with his nomination as the area Bishop of Reading on January 6, 2004. He was consecrated on May 4, 2004, by Archbishop Rowan Williams. In 2010, he was translated to the see of Chelmsford, where he served until 2020. During his time as Bishop of Chelmsford, he became a Lord Spiritual, entitled to sit in the House of Lords, in 2014. On December 17, 2019, it was announced that he would succeed John Sentamu as Archbishop of York. His canonical election was confirmed on July 9, 2020, with his enthronement at York Minster on October 18, 2020. As a matter of course, he was appointed a Privy Counsellor in July 2020. He also participated in the 2023 Coronation of King Charles III.

Significant Periods and Views

From January 7, 2025, to January 28, 2026, Cottrell is scheduled to assume the majority of the primatial functions of the Archbishop of Canterbury during a period of vacancy. Cottrell is a member of the Society of Catholic Priests (SCP) and Affirming Catholicism, serving as president of the latter from 2015. His views have included opposition to the renewal of Britain's Trident missile systems and support for church celebrations of same-sex relationships, advocating for ways to live with diversity within the church. He has also made suggestions regarding national anthems and has acknowledged differing perspectives on addressing God as 'Father'. In November 2025, he delivered a significant assessment of the situation in Israel and Palestine, condemning certain Israeli government policies and expressing support for Palestinian communities.

Allegations of Enabling Abuse

In late 2024, an investigation by BBC Radio 4's File on Four brought to light allegations concerning Cottrell's handling of a safeguarding case involving priest David Tudor during his tenure as Bishop of Chelmsford. Cottrell was aware of long-standing concerns about Tudor, including a ban for sexual misconduct and a safeguarding agreement. Despite this, Tudor remained in his position and was made an honorary canon of Chelmsford Cathedral. The investigation revealed Cottrell was informed in 2012 about a compensation payment made by Tudor to a victim of alleged abuse. Cottrell's office stated they were guided by legal advice. Tudor was eventually suspended from ministry in 2019 following new complaints and was later banned from ministry for life after admitting historical sex abuse. The handling of this case has led to calls for Cottrell's resignation, though his spokesman defended his actions, citing an 'invidious situation' and lack of legal power to dismiss Tudor. Formal complaints of misconduct have been filed against Cottrell in relation to this matter.

Personal Life

Stephen Cottrell is married to Rebecca, and they have three children. He is a patron of the charity Antibiotic Research UK. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York serve as presidents of the National Churches Trust.