Bajan Rt Revd Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Area Bishop of Croydon, will act as Bishop of Southwark until a permanent successor is appointed. The announcement was made recently after the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun said he will retire in August 2026, when he turns 70.
The Diocese of Southwark is presided over by the Bishop of Southwark, who is aided by three Area Bishops. Bishop Chessum, who has served since 2011, will step down on 4 August 2026. His concluding service at Southwark Cathedral will be held on 18 July 2026, during which he will formally hand over his diocesan staff to Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Area Bishop of Croydon. A timeline that keeps the community informed about key dates in the leadership transition.
Independence Thanksgiving Service
Bishop Mallet recently led the UK National Bajan group’s Independence Thanksgiving service at St Laurence Church, Catford in South London, where fellow Barbadian Bishop Wilfred Wood— the first black Bishop in the Church of England and former Bishop of Croydon—was Vicar. Sources have said that her extensive experience and leadership qualities contributed to their choice, reflecting the Diocese’s commitment to diversity and qualified leadership.
Her portfolio is quite extensive, as Bishop Mallet leads Racial Justice for the Diocese of Southwark and has written its Anti-Racism Charter. She is also a regular contributor to BBC Radio Four’s Prayer for the Day and Daily Worship. As a national spokesperson on racial and social justice, she chairs the Church Commissioners’ Oversight Group for the Spire Project and the Southwark.
In a letter to the Diocese on Advent Sunday, Bishop Chessun recalled that, while recuperating from injuries sustained in a taxi accident last year. Dr Mallett proved exemplary leadership by assembling the College of Bishops during a period of uncertainty. He expressed confidence in her ability to guide the senior team through this transition, commending their capability and effectiveness.
Dr Mallett, speaking to the Diocese, recognised Bishop Chessun’s impactful leadership and commitment to a parish-focused vision. She noted his support for unity and respectful dialogue during times of change, which the Diocese aims to continue.
