News from the Diocese in Europe

We, the Anglican Church Freiburg, are part of the Church of England’s Diocese in Europe. The Diocese in Europe is the largest of the 42 dioceses in the Church of England. There are over 250 congregations in more than 30 countries across continental Europe, Turkey, Morocco and Russia.

Read on for news, past and present, from this wonderfully large and diverse community of believers.

News and Reflections from the Diocese in Europe

January 2026

Here are some blog posts and news from the Diocese in Europe. You can read about carol services, join Bishop Robert in prayer following the tragic fire at Crans-Montana, and learn about advent fellowship with our sisters and brothers in Kyiv/Ukraine.




Recap: Racial Justice Conference in Berlin

December 2025

The Diocese in Europe’s 3rd International and Ecumenical Racial Justice Conference concluded in Berlin this December with a powerful vision—communities shaped by the hospitality of Christ that challenge fragmentation and hostility. Building on previous gatherings in Freiburg and Bad Boll, the conference committed to move “from lament to action,” creating spaces that respect the dignity, identity, and belonging of every human being. Read the full conference statement and discover how our diocese is embracing diversity, re-examining democracy, and challenging hostility. Representatives from the ACF help organise the event and attended, too.

Read the full report and conference statement here.




Vinod’s Reflections for the Diocese in Europe

November 2025

Vinod wrote a short piece for the diocesan website reflecting on the Nicene Creed through a Global Majority Heritage lens. The creed was formulated under imperial power, seeking theological clarity and unity across a diverse empire. But what does it mean for unity today in our global church, especially for communities marked by colonial history?

Read Vinod’s reflections here.




Creationtide in the Diocese in Europe

October 2025

Recently the church commemorated Creationtide, a season of thanksgiving and prayer for God’s beautiful and endangered creation. Here are some related news articles from our diocese in Europe:




From the Diocese: European Anglicans – Summer 2025 Edition

July 2025

For some summer reading we’re sending you the newest edition of the Diocese in Europe’s quarterly magazine European Anglicans. Click here to read it online.

It’s packed with all sorts of news from all over Europe, for example:

  • A report written by a young person from St Margaret’s chaplaincy, Budapest
  • A reflection from our Suffragan Bishop Andrew on some of his experiences since his installation
  • The importance of music in our chaplaincies
  • Interviews with some of those who were ordained this year
  • Updates on our Celebrating Nicaea campaign

Have fun reading!




Anglican Church Life in Tenerife

July 2025

As summer has arrived here in Freiburg we’re invited to get a glimpse of church life elsewhere in the Diocese, where the sun is always shining. Read this interview with Mtr Fiona Jack, chaplain of Anglican Church of All Saints in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife North and watch this lovely video of her talking about the church she serves at.

Exploring the Nicene Creed? You’re Not Alone!

June 2025

If you’ve been digging into the Nicene Creed during Lent or chatting about it in your home group, you’ll love hearing what’s happening across our diocese!

It’s been 1700 years since the First Council of Nicaea, and Christians everywhere are celebrating this huge moment in our faith story. Our Diocese in Europe has put together an ecumenical pilgrimage, with Bishop Richard Chartres and Greek Archbishop Nikitas Loulias leading the way – bringing different church traditions together just like the Creed was meant to do.

Read all about the Nicene Creed pilgrimage and see some photos here on Bishop Robert’s blog.

Easter Round-Up

April 2025

As always, representatives from the Diocese in Europe have sent Easter messages near and far:

  • Easter Update from Calais
    Joseph of Arimathea has much to teach us, reflects Bradon Muilenburg, as he recounts an experience he had of helping a mother and her children in Calais.   He highlights the need to keep the plight of refugees in our prayers this Easter time.
  • An Easter Message from Bishop Andrew
    It’s wonderful to share Bishop Andrew’s first Easter Message to our diocese in his role as our Suffragan Bishop.
  • A celebration of unity this Easter
    In 2025, for the first time in many years, Christians of various traditions will celebrate Easter on the same day, 20 April.  
  • Celebrating Chrism Eucharists 2025
    Every year during Holy Week, services are held at which the Clergy and Readers of the Diocese are invited to reaffirm before the Bishop the promises and commitments they have made in their ministry. At the same time, the oils that are used throughout the year for ministry to the sick, for Christian initiation, and for ordination are set aside. This year, both Bishop Robert and Bishop Andrew officiated at 6 Chrism Eucharists held in various chaplaincies across the diocese.
  • Bishop Robert writes about his Easter in Gibraltar




The Death of Pope Francis

April 2025

Following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, we, together with Christians worldwide, give thanks for his life of ministry. Bishop Robert of the Diocese in Europe has published a statement on the pope’s passing.




New Year’s Greetings

January 2025

At the start of 2025 we would like to wish all members and friends of the ACF God’s blessing and his guidance & peace for the 12 months ahead!

The Diocese in Europe is sending their New Year’s greetings by way of some blog posts:




A short report on the Racial Justice Conference

December 2024

The Interfaith and Ecumenical Conference on Racial Justice held in Bad Boll from the 4th to the 7th December brought together a hundred participants from across the world. Following up on the Freiburg conference last year the theme was “All of Us or None of Us”. The Keynote presentation was made by Bishop Bedford Storm the Moderator of the World Council of Churches. Bible Studies were led by Dr. Esther Mombo from Kenya and Dr. Monica Melanchton from Melbourne. The highlight of the Interfaith panel moderated by Dr. Jayakiran Sebastian including Dr. Azza Karam, Anette Adelman, Dr. Sara Siddique Gill and Dr. Carolla Roloff. Sharing of stories and experiences of the participants and the powerful voices of the young people added depth to the coming together. A well crafted statement that came out of the conference will be a major guiding document for further actions. Bishop Robert Innes spoke about slavery and the need for reparatory justice. The presence of Bishop Rose Hudson Wilkin, the Bishop overseeing Canterbury diocese and Dover, was another significant highlight.

Rev. Vinod Victor the Chaplain of Freiburg was the Conference Coordinator and Molly Catherine the Conference Secretary. Archdeacon Ven Dr. Leslie Nathaniel chaired the sessions.




Bishop Robert’s 2024 Advent Appeal

December 2024

As every year, we’d like to encourage you to donate to the Bishop’s Advent appeal. This year’s Advent Appeal is for the Ras Morbat Eye Clinic, Yemen, a country experiencing, in the words of UNICEF, ‘one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises that is robbing children of their future’. For more information and instructions on how to donate visit the Diocese in Europe’s website here.




From the Diocese: new Suffragan Bishop has been announced

Nov 2024

On 29th Nov 2024 the Revd Canon Andrew Norman, currently Director of Ministry and Mission for the Diocese of Leeds has been announced to be the next Suffragan Bishop in Europe. He succeeds Bishop David Hamid who retired in February.  Watch a conversation between Andrew and Bishop Robert to find more about his background, experience and hopes for the future here on the Diocese in Europe’s website.




A Letter from the Bishop

November 2024

Following the events of the last weeks, including the publication of the Makin report and the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Bishop Robert wrote to chaplaincies in the diocese.

You can read his letter here.




European Anglicans Magazine: Autumn 2024 Edition

November 2024

European Anglicans is the Diocese in Europe’s quarterly online magazine, bringing together stories about people and life from across the diocese, plus news and updates. The latest edition features an introduction to new faces and roles, some inspirational and thought provoking articles, as well as highlights from around the diocese over the last few months.  There is information about a forthcoming Safeguarding event, an amazing pilgrimage and other helpful resources.  Also featuring the much anticipated Chaplaincy Pets!

Read here




It’s Creationtide!

September 2024

It’s Creationtide season, a special time from September 1st to October 4th when we celebrate God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life. To help us all get into the spirit, we’ve gathered some fantastic resources and links from the Diocese in Europe that dive into the heart of Creationtide themes. Enjoy exploring!

‘To hope and act with creation’ – Creationtide messages
Bishop Robert speaks about this season of Creationtide and how we can hope and act with creation with our young people.

Creationtide Stories: Practical Ideas from Chaplaincies
Two chaplaincies share ideas for taking action in caring for creation.

Creationtide Stories: Herbs in Helsinki
How St Nicholas’ in Helsinki used herbs to inspire discussion on the environment, history, medicine and crafts!




2024 Racial Justice Conference

August 2024

The Diocese in Europe is getting ready for another Racial Justice Conference in December 2024 in Bad Boll, Germany – a follow-up to last year’s event in Freiburg. Themed “ALL of us or NONE of Us” it’s all about creating a more inclusive and just community.

If you’re interested in taking part, now’s the time to sign up! Visit the diocesan website here for more information.

Olympic Letter by Bishop Robert

July 2024

Olympic fever meets faith! Bishop Robert’s latest letter reflects on sports, spirituality, and striving together. From ancient games to Paris 2024, with a dash of Eric Liddell’s inspiring story – here is this quick summer read for you.

News from the Diocesan Synod in Cologne

June 2024

Here are some highlights from the recent Diocesan Synod in Cologne, where clergy and lay representatives discussed important topics affecting our diocese, such as clergy wellbeing, supporting children and youth, safeguarding, lay leader training, and Carbon Net Zero initiatives.
We encourage you to read the full article here to learn more about these crucial matters. Read Bishop Robert’s presidential address to our Diocesan Synod here where he speaks of resilience, inter-dependence and hope.

Corfu’s Divine Delight: Your Next Must-Visit Summer Destination

June 2024

Pack your sunglasses and beach towels because this summer, your trip to Corfu has a special treat in store by the Anglican Church Holy Trinity! In Bishop Robert’s latest blog post he talks about the opening of their Logos Café – a place of care, creativity, and community.

Read all about it here.

European Anglicans Magazine – Spring Edition

April 2024

Discover the Diocese in Europe’s latest online magazine, European Anglicans, exploring mission and growth. This edition features diverse stories of growth, the 30th anniversary of women’s ordination, and remarkable women clergy who shape our community. Join us in celebrating unity, faith, and resilience. Read the inspiring stories in European Anglicans today here!

30 years Women’s Ordination

April 2024

This spring marked a significant milestone for the Church of England – the 30th anniversary of the first women’s ordination to the priesthood. The Diocese in Europe marked the occasion by releasing these videos which feature women from the diocese sharing their insights, reflections on their roles and journey towards ordination.

ICS Magazine (incl. an article on the ACF!)

March 2024

Have a browse through the March edition of the Intercontinental Church Society’s magazine here on our website! This month’s issue is packed with interesting articles from places all over the world, including a special feature on our very own Anglican Church Freiburg.

Celebrating 22 Years of Bishop David: A Heartfelt Farewell

March 2024

In a heartfelt online ‘Service of Prayer, Thanksgiving, and Sending Out’, the diocese bid a warm farewell to Bishop David and Revd Canon Deacon Frances Hiller as they retire after 22 years of dedicated service. Over 300 people joined in prayer and thanksgiving, reflecting on Bishop David’s remarkable contributions.

Bishop Robert led the service, highlighting the miracle of a united Christian community in today’s divided world. As Bishop David moves on to a well-deserved retirement, his legacy of nurturing faithful disciples and friends of Jesus Christ lives on.

Visit the diocesan website here to watch Bishop David’s address on video, read the full text, and access the complete recording of this memorable service.

Winter Update: Friends of the Diocese in Europe

February 2024

The Friends of the Diocese in Europe is a group that supports the Anglican Diocese in Europe through prayer, interest, and financial contributions. In their recent newsletter they talk about the Friends’ Reunion at Southwark Cathedral, where old and new friends gathered for a special Choral Evensong. Despite a few detours and an overpriced umbrella, the event was a joyful celebration. Read more about this and other updates in the latest letter from the Friends of the Diocese.

Bishop Robert’s Christmas Message

December 2023

Bishop Robert shares some ponderings on his Christmas ornaments to send out his Christmas greetings out to the Diocese in Europe. Read or watch his message here.

European Anglicans – New Edition

December 2023

Dive in to the Diocese in Europe’s quarterly digital magazine European Anglicans here. There are all sorts of interesting articles, including a write-up on the recent Racial Justice Conference here in Freiburg.

This was the Racial Justice Conference in Freiburg

November 2023

The Racial Justice Conference held here in Freiburg from 9th – 11 Nov 2023, brought together a diverse group of participants. The conference featured a lineup of outstanding speakers who shared their insights and experiences related to racism. These speakers came from different parts of the world, enriching the event with a global perspective on racial justice. In addition to personal narratives, the conference included theological talks that explored the intersection of faith and racial justice. The discussions delved into the role of religious communities in combating racism and promoting inclusivity. Discussion groups and open mic sessions allowed participants to engage in open dialogues, share their perspectives, and wrestle for ideas for a way forward.

A special acknowledgment goes to all the helpers and organizers who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the conference. Besides the diocesan Racial Justice Working Group, led by Archdeacon Leslie Nathaniels, a team from the ACF were pivotal for making this event a success. Their dedication and commitment played a crucial role in creating a welcoming and well-organized environment for all participants. Also, a huge Thank You goes to everyone who worked so hard on Sunday to put on a wonderful Shared Lunch for our guests: Thank you for cooking, baking, setting up, working in the kitchen, tidying and washing up.

The conference’s success is a step forward in fostering awareness, understanding, and collective action towards a more inclusive and equitable Church. We are excited to see what actions will grow out of this event in the near future.

Read all about the recent Racial Justice Conference here in the newsletters that were produced during the event:

ICS November Magazine

October 2023

Intercontinental Church Society (ICS) is an Anglican mission agency. Founded in 1823, they have worked in most parts of the world, ministering and reaching out to people from many nationalities and backgrounds, including supporting the ACF in our early days. Their new magazine has just come out: Click here to read all about the ICS and what they are doing right now.

Also, please do watch here their latest prayer video, featuring Hayley who is the chaplain in the Falkland Islands.

Deanery Synod

October 2023

The German Deanery Synod of the Diocese in Europe met in Bonn from the 19th to 22nd of October 2023. This being the first synod of a new triennium 2023-2026 the Officers of the Synod were elected. Vinod Victor of Freiburg was elected as Clergy Vice President and Markus Müller of Kōln as lay vice-president. Diana Peterson of Heidelberg was elected as secretary. John Newsome was commissioned by Bishop David Hamid to continue as Area Dean.

From the Diocese: Retirement of Bishop David

September 2023

Bishop David Hamid, the Suffragan Bishop in the Diocese of Europe, has announced his retirement after 18 years of service. Bishop David has been a key figure in the diocese and has also been involved in ecumenical dialogues and interfaith relations. Bishop David has been to Freiburg a few times and will be with us again: He will join us in November for the Racial Justice Conference and we will take the opportunity to worship together with him on 12th November at a Service celebrating his ministry in Europe.

Other news from the diocese:
Creationtide in in full swing and here are two blog posts relating to this from Anglican churches in Europe:
Creationtide: A Call to eco action – where to begin?
Nature between the blocks
Creationtide pledges from congregation in Arnhem Nijmegen
Creationtide 2023 in the Diocese in Europe – our top tips!

Lay Training Course

September 2023

The Diocese in Europe’s lay learning course ‘Walking Together in Faith’ is back for a second year, starting very soon, so don’t delay in signing up. The course consists of four modules, each with five sessions. The online sessions start on the evening of 26 September 2023 (Final time to be announced when we know the range of time zones represented in the group). 

Diocesan Director of Lay Discipleship, Dr Clare Amos, who has overseen the development of the course, said: “It has been a privilege and a joy to see how well ‘Walking Together in Faith’ has been received around the diocese since its launch in September 2021. Last year most of the participants followed it through the online Zoom sessions which were offered, and which brought people together from many parts of the diocese.” 

Find out more and register here.

New issue of ‘European Anglicans’ magazine

This edition is all about journeys; some actual and some of faith and service.
The magazine is a reminder that we are all on a journey; it’s often haphazard, not quite taking us where we expect to end up and challenging us to trust that, even if we don’t know exactly what is in store, God has a plan.
Enjoy!

Read the online magazine here.

A response to the wildfires in Greece

Greece is facing a devastating wildfire crisis that has destroyed thousands of hectares of forests and forced thousands of people to evacuate. How are the Anglican chaplaincies in Greece responding to this disaster? Here on the Diocese in Europe’s website, you will read about the challenges and the hopes of Revd Jules Wilson, Chaplain at Holy Trinity Church in Corfu. There is also a video of an interview he has given the BBC recently.

Want to go on a pilgrimage?


Are you ready for an amazing adventure of faith and discovery? Join the pilgrimage to the Seven Churches of Revelation in Turkey. This is a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Turkey, as well as to deepen your spiritual connection with God and fellow pilgrims. The pilgrimage will be organised by the Diocese in Europe and led by Rev’d James Buxton, who is the chaplain of Izmir. He has extensive knowledge and experience of the region, and he will guide the pilgrims through the biblical sites and share insights from his ministry. It’s a very similar journey to the one Vinod took earlier this year, about which you can read here! The pilgrimage will take place in May 2024, and you can find out all about it here.

Anglican Chaplain to Moscow awarded King’s Honours

We are pleased to announce that Revd Canon Malcolm Rogers, chaplain at St Andrew’s Moscow, and Alison Rogers have received royal honours for their contributions to the British and Anglican communities in Russia. The couple have served the English-speaking community in Moscow for the past 6 years.

Read all about it here on the diocesan website.

Celebrations at Christ Church Kyiv

In a remarkable turn of events, Christ Church in Kyiv recently experienced a truly special moment. For the first time in over a year since the war broke out, they were able to celebrate the Eucharist. Adding to the excitement, Archdeacon Leslie Nathaniel paid a visit to the church and had the pleasure of returning the silver Chalice and Paten, which had been kept safe and sound in Germany since the early days of the invasion.

Read more about this reunion here on the diocesan website.

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