THE BISHOP of Edinburgh has announced that he will retire this year, after being in the role for over 12 years.
Rt Revd Dr John Armes was consecrated in May 2012, and has set the date of his retirement as 31 August this year.
The Diocese of Edinburgh announced his retirement yesterday, issuing a statement from the Bishop.
The 69-year-old was previously the Rector of St John’s on Princes Street and the Dean of the Diocese of Edinburgh.
Bishop John became the 26th Bishop of Edinburgh in 2012, succeeding Rt Revd Brian Smith who retired after ten years in the role.
Born in London, John Armes has worked with the Church across the country, including as chaplain to the University of Manchester, and Area Dean of Rossendale.
He also stood as acting Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney in 2022, whilst Rt Revd Anne Dyer was suspended from office due to allegations of misconduct which have now been dismissed.
Bishop John turns 70 later this year and confirmed his retirement in a letter to the clergy of the Diocese of Edinburgh by saying: “By then I shall be in my fourteenth year as your bishop, a period of ministry which, for me, has been full of joy and a sense of huge privilege.
“I shall, of course, continue to hold the diocese in prayer as collectively you discern who God may be calling to be your next bishop.
“I shall do all I can to ensure that the transition is a smooth one – this will include keeping out of the way when necessary!
“In the meantime, please pray for Clare and me and our family at this time of personal transition.
“After 46 years of full-time ministry there will be a lot to get used to.
“Please pray also for the dean and standing committee and others who will have particular responsibilities in the electoral process.”
John married his wife Clare Newby in 1983 and they have four children together.
