It was whilst Bishop Debbie was caring for her own young family that she felt a definite call to ministry which deepened over time, leading her to begin her ordination training in 2004. Whilst serving in parish ministry she also took on the additional role of Area Dean, something that gave her a wider perspective and introduced her to the workings of the Diocese. From these roles, she was appointed Bishop of Southampton, something she describes as ‘exciting and daunting at the same time’, but felt ‘a deep sense that this was what God wanted for me that only grew stronger and stronger’.
During her time as Bishop of Southampton, Bishop Debbie has been involved in a variety of roles. As non-executive chair of Love Southampton, her passion for seeing social transformation through ecumenical outreach and community engagement was enhanced. She has also been an Ambassador of the Rose Road Association which provides direct care for children and young adults with complex physical and learning disabilities and support for their families.
The role of Diocesan Bishop is not completely new to Bishop Debbie who has been the acting Bishop of Winchester following the retirement of Bishop Tim Dakin in February 2022. In an unsettled environment, Bishop Debbie spent time listening and understanding the challenges that people were facing, whilst working towards building reconciliation and unity.
One of Bishop Debbie’s priorities has been to encourage parishes to thrive….
Downing Street announced this morning that Bishop Debbie Sellin will be the next Bishop of Peterborough. Our diocese will deeply miss Debbie and our community will be praying for her as she begins this next stage of ministry. Congratulations Bishop Debbie! https://t.co/aF4NEVrJVl pic.twitter.com/IeqlAisCm4
— Diocese of Winchester (@CofEWinchester) September 28, 2023