We are part of the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican Communion
About the Diocese
Guildford is one of 41 dioceses that cover the whole of England. Our diocese straddles the North Downs, from tiny rural communities to the busy commuter towns, with areas of challenging social deprivation and great affluence. The area covers two-thirds of Surrey (including Egham, Banstead, Dorking and Farnham), parts of North East Hampshire (including Farnborough and Aldershot), one parish each in Sussex, and one in Greater London.
More than a million people live in the Diocese of Guildford and our churches are there for everyone; providing opportunities for young and old to pray, to explore their faith, to access support, to make a positive impact locally and globally, and to observe major life events such as a wedding, christening, confirmation or funeral. Our churches seek to be at the centre of every community, to reach out to those in special need, and to encourage all their members to grow into their full potential as children of God.
The diocese is made up of 159 parishes, with 83 church schools and several hundred social and community projects. The 212 church buildings see more than 25,000 people worshipping on an average Sunday, in addition to many thousands more of all ages who use those buildings or neighbouring church halls on weekdays for church activities and community clubs and meetings. Each of our parishes is an independent charity, with their own leadership and governance structures, working together under the leadership of the Bishop of Guildford and his team, so as to make the very best use of our resources across the region.
Find out more in Explore the Diocese.
A transforming Church, transforming lives
Our vision as the Diocese of Guildford is to be a Transforming Church, Transforming Lives.
At its heart, our vision is about growth. The video below shows some stories where growth is already being experienced in our diocese, with the committed aspiration that, with God's blessing, our Church Development Plans (CPDs) will add many more in the years to come.
Read more about our vision and mission strategy