In a significant move within the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has appointed Bishop John Sherrington as the new Archbishop of Liverpool. The announcement came on April 5, 2025, bringing an end to Archbishop Malcolm McMahon’s tenure, who has been serving the archdiocese since 2014. With this decision, the Vatican entrusts Bishop Sherrington with the spiritual leadership of one of the largest and most historically rich dioceses in England.
Archbishop-elect Sherrington, aged 67, has long been a familiar figure in the English Catholic hierarchy. Since 2011, he has served as an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Westminster and has held the titular see of Hilta. A man of both intellect and pastoral sensitivity, Sherrington’s background in mathematics and theology underlines a rare blend of analytical precision and spiritual depth.
Born in Leicester in 1958, John Sherrington graduated from Queen’s College, Cambridge, with a master’s degree in mathematics. After a short career in management consultancy, he felt the call to the priesthood and was ordained in 1987 for the Diocese of Nottingham. His theological acumen led him to Rome, where he earned a licentiate in moral theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the Catholic world.
Sherrington’s career has been marked by both academic and pastoral excellence. He served as a moral theology professor at All Hallows College in Dublin and later taught at St. John’s Seminary in Wonersh. In addition to his academic roles, he was deeply involved in parish ministry, balancing intellectual pursuits with hands-on pastoral care.
Over the years, he has become known for his work with the Department for Social Justice of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, particularly focusing on issues surrounding the sanctity of life. His voice has been consistent, thoughtful, and compassionate—traits that will be vital as he takes on the responsibilities of leading the Archdiocese of Liverpool.
In a statement following the announcement, Archbishop-elect Sherrington expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by Pope Francis. “I accept this mission with humility and joy,” he said. He also offered prayers for Pope Francis, especially for his health as he recovers and prepares for the Holy Week and Easter celebrations.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, praised the appointment and described Sherrington as a man of “gifts, dedication, and utter generosity.” The Cardinal noted that while Westminster will deeply miss his presence, the faithful in Liverpool are gaining a deeply spiritual and capable leader.
Outgoing Archbishop Malcolm McMahon also welcomed his successor warmly, saying the archdiocese would benefit from Sherrington’s deep love for Christ and his Church. He described the bishop as a man of prayer with considerable talents and pastoral sensitivity.
The Archdiocese of Liverpool encompasses a wide geographical area, including Liverpool, Southport, St. Helens, Wigan, and even extends to the Isle of Man. Its heritage is steeped in the history of English martyrs and shaped by waves of Irish immigration. It is a diocese known for its vibrant faith and strong sense of Catholic identity.
Reflecting on this rich legacy, Archbishop-elect Sherrington expressed both reverence and hope: “I look forward to serving the historic and faith-filled Church in the Archdiocese of Liverpool, which is rich in its heritage and now looks to the future with faith, hope, and charity.”
The formal installation ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 27, 2025, at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King. As he prepares to lead the flock in Liverpool, Archbishop-elect Sherrington begins a new chapter—one marked by a deep sense of mission, spiritual dedication, and an enduring commitment to the people of God.