Brighton Bishop Richard Moth Named New Archbishop Of Westminster

Richard Moth has been named the new Archbishop of Westminster, becoming the head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

He succeeds Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who has retired at 80 after leading the Church since 2009.

For the past decade, Moth has served as Bishop of Arundel and Brighton, and prior to that as Bishop of the Forces.

As Archbishop, he will lead an estimated six million Catholics and become president of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales.

In a statement, Archbishop Moth said his priority is to get to know the priests, schools, and communities within the Westminster diocese.

He highlighted his focus on social justice and expressed particular concern for prisons and supporting vulnerable groups.

Moth has previously spoken on issues such as refugees, urging empathy for those seeking safety in the UK, and has criticised attempts to use Christian symbols to sow division, referencing recent far-right rallies in London.

He will also inherit ongoing challenges facing the Church, including declining church attendance, safeguarding responsibilities, and continuing efforts to respond to past cases of abuse.

Outgoing Cardinal Nichols praised Moth, saying he brings “experience and practical wisdom” to the role.

Nichols retires after 16 years leading the Church in England and Wales, a period marked by both significant change and social engagement, including the Church’s work during the cost of living crisis.

Archbishop Moth, the son of two teachers and a lifelong Liverpool fan, begins his new role amid a Church striving to balance tradition, social outreach, and modern challenges.