THE Queen has approved the nomination of the Archdeacon of Dorking to become Bishop of Blackburn.
The Venerable Julian Henderson will replace the Right Reverend Nicholas Reade, who resigned in October 2012.
The 58-year-old has been Archdeacon of Dorking since October 2005, while his wife Heather has served the Diocese of Guildford's education team since January 2008. Together the couple have served the diocese for more than 20 years.
Reacting to the news, the Bishop of Guildford, the Right Reverend Christopher Hill, said: "I want to add my personal congratulations to Archdeacon Julian and to the diocese of Blackburn.
"Julian has been a most valued colleague in ministry with me in Guildford, a kind pastor, an efficient Archdeacon, a strategic member of my staff and a good friend."
Mr Henderson described the move as a "response to a call of God through His church to serve the Diocese of Blackburn and the people of Lancashire in the North West".
He added: "Heather and I are humbled by the trust that has been placed in us, but firmly believe that God has been guiding and leading those charged with the responsibility of this appointment.
"We will miss the many friends we have, but at the same time we are excited by the opportunities for sharing in God's mission in another and very different part of the country.
"Although we don't know yet exactly when it will be, we value your prayers as we prepare for a new role in our service of the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
The Archbishop of York John Sentamu also posted a message on Twitter. He tweeted: "I am delighted to welcome The Venerable Julian Henderson as Bishop of Blackburn."
Meanwhile, Canon Derek Holbird, diocesan director of education, paid tribute to the work Heather Henderson has done during her time in the diocese.
He said: "Heather has a creative flair, an encouraging 'can-do' manner and a tremendous passion for children's well being.
"She has set the standard for us and we will miss her hugely."
Mr Henderson studied at Keble College, Oxford, and Ridley Hall, Cambridge before being ordained in 1980.
He began his clerical vocation as assistant curate at St Mary's, Islington, north London, before spending nine years as parish priest of the church of Emmanuel and St Mary in the Castle, Hastings.
He then moved to the Diocese of Guildford as Vicar of Holy Trinity, Claygate in 1992.
In 1996, he became Rural Dean of Emly, and in 2002 was made an honorary Canon of Guildford Cathedral, before his appointment as Archdeacon of Dorking in 2005.
His wife has served as schools officer with the Diocese of Guildford education team since the beginning of 2008, with particular responsibility for spiritual development and Christian distinctiveness of church schools.
Announcements regarding the process of appointing the new Archdeacon of Dorking will be made in due course.
