The diocese is delighted to announce that Revd Canon Dr James Theodosius, currently Rector of Holy Trinity, Skipton, will be the new Archdeacon of Richmond and Craven.
Revd James will work with the Rt Revd Anna Eltringham, Bishop of Ripon.
He knows the Ripon Episcopal Area very well as during the last ten years he was Vicar of Upper Wharfedale and Littondale, then served at Holy Trinity, Skipton, where he is also Area Dean.
A strong advocate for rural ministry, he is also keen to ensure that the urban and rural are thoughtfully integrated in ways which echo the good news of the gospel.
Speaking of his appointment, Revd James said: “I am delighted to be continuing my ministry in the Ripon Episcopal Area as the Archdeacon of Richmond and Craven.
“I will do all I can to serve the parishes and chaplaincies, both clergy and laity to ensure that we are real and true with each other and embolden one another with the good news of the kingdom.
“This is such a unique and special area, abounding in proud history and culture and with so many gifted and committed people.
“My job will be to encourage, facilitate and ensure that to the best of my ability, the structures and governance of the church enables, empowers and serves local ministry.”
Welcoming Revd James to his new role, the Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds said: “After a thorough process and a very strong field, I am very pleased that James has agreed to be the next Archdeacon of Richmond & Craven.
He brings unique experience of parochial ministry and has been an excellent Area Dean. I very much look forward to him joining my staff team in the spring.”
Revd James is married to Mo, a Systemic and Family Psychotherapist and recently appointed Diocesan Adviser in Pastoral Care to the Diocese of York.
They have three children all currently studying at university. His first appointment in the Church of England was in the city centre church of St Paul, Chichester, during which time he moved to serve the rural suburb of Westhampnett. He went on to be the St Luke’s Chaplain, at the University of Exeter and Director of Reader Training for South West Ministry Training Course, before being appointed as the Senior Lazenby Chaplain to the University and coordinator of the Multi Faith Team.
Alongside his parochial and chaplaincy experience, James has also been involved in and committed to the vocations work and theological training of the three different diocese in which he has served. Prior to ordination, he was a teacher of English and Drama, later pursuing a Dphil. and research. His academic interests fall within the interchange between theology, literature and philosophy. Brought up as a chorister, he has a love of music and enjoys literature and theatre.
He enjoys sport and getting out into the wilds, tries and fails to keep fit, and keeps a close eye on the Exeter Chiefs & Notts Forest.
The Installation Service will take place at Ripon Cathedral on Sunday, April 6 2025 at 3.30pm with Bishop Nick Baines officiating.