Dr John Perumbalath nominated by the Queen as sixth Bishop of Bradwell

The Venerable Dr John Perumbalath has been nominated by Her Majesty the Queen as the sixth Bishop of Bradwell.

He succeeds the late Bishop John Wraw, who sadly passed away in July after serving as bishop since 2012.

Dr Perumbalath is the present Archdeacon of Barking in East London. He is described by Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford as “a wise and gifted theologian and pastor”.

He began his role at St Peter’s Chapel in the village in prayer on Friday.

He described himself as “passionate” about his work and that his appointment as bishop will be a mission to serve the churches and communities of the Dengie.

John said: “I am humbled and honoured to have been invited to be the next Bishop of Bradwell.

“It has been a great joy to share in the life of Barking Episcopal Area in the last five years and I look forward to the new opportunities and challenges that serving the Church in the Bradwell Episcopal Area will bring.

“I am passionate about the Christian faith that can transform individuals, communities and institutions, and about communicating that faith through pastoral care, teaching and community engagement.

“I am aware of the social, economic and cultural challenges faced by the communities in the area.

“I am committed to working with and serving the churches and communities in this part of Essex.”

Bishop of Chelmsford Stephen Cottrell said: “I am delighted that John Perumbalath has been appointed as the next Bishop of Bradwell. He is a wise and gifted theologian and pastor.

“As Archdeacon of Barking he has won the trust and affection of the parishes, supported the mission of the church, and helped ensure each community was served effectively.

“He will bring this experience to the parishes and communities of the Bradwell Episcopal Area, building on the work of those who have gone before him.”