Clergy Spouses
There is a growing network of clergy spouses in the Diocese of Chester and all spouses of our clergy are welcome to be a part of it, whether you have just arrived here or you've been in the diocese for many years.
As a diocese, we recognise that those who join us as spouses of the clergy here come with very different experiences: different levels of familiarity with Church and ordained ministry, a diverse range of their own interests and available support. You each come with your own needs and gifts to offer. You and your spouse may be very familiar with the geography of the area or it may be completely new.
We want to be able to provide support to all clergy spouses in a way that works for you and is helpful.
If you are interested in joining the Clergy Spouse network, being part of one of three regional Whatsapp groups, or just fancy a chat, please get in touch by email with the network coordinator, Lindsay Tanner - Lindsay.tanner@chester.anglican.org
Events Programme
Spring 2026
Retreat Day: 28th February 2026 at Foxhill
An opportunity to take a step out of the busyness of life and seek Gods refreshing with others. We are looking forward to spending the day together and are thrilled to have Jim Bridgman with us.
We often consider life and faith to be a journey; this implies direction and movement, travelling and exploration. But every good journey needs stopping points – places to get your breath back; to refuel; to enjoy the view before you; to check you’re on the right path. This Quiet Day for clergy spouses is one of those stopping points, with an invitation to sit down and reflect, using Scripture, art, poetry and music.
Suggestion donation is £10 (details of where to pay this to will be sent separately) but please get in touch if this would be a barrier to you attending.
6 May 2026
Informal Supper, Bishop's House
2pm 4 July 2026
Family Clergy Spouse Meet up
All welcome to join us for this family friendly clergy spouse meet up.
Meet at Delamere Forest cafe for a little walk followed by ice-creams or coffees back at the cafe/play area.
A chance to get to know each other (especially if you are solo parenting whilst your partner is on pre-ordination retreat!), all are welcome.
Book on eventbrite to let the team know you are coming: https://familyclergyspouse.eventbrite.co.uk
PREVIOUS EVENTS
Ecumenical gathering during week of Christian Unity - January 2026,
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Coffee, Chats and Charity Shops! – 11 October 2025
Spouses’ Supper – 12 September 2025
Chester Cathedral Tour – 19 July 2025
On Saturday 19th July 2025, a group of clergy spouses and guests had a wonderful time exploring the parts of Chester Cathedral which most visitors never see. We investigated those walkways you notice halfway up the walls, last regularly used for monastic worship and by stone masons through the eras; we climbed multiple spiral stairways to hidden lofts and towers, ultimately emerging on top of the central tower, with commanding views of the city; we were given a fantastic perspective down the choir and nave to the glorious west window. Our guide, Robert, engaged us in the history of the building and was able to answer all our questions, however left-field. Above all, it was a great opportunity to get to know one another.