Richard Moth Appointed as New Archbishop of Westminster

20 December 2025 Religion and Leadership

Historic Appointment for Catholic Church in England and Wales

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Richard Moth as the new Archbishop of Westminster on 19 December, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church in England and Wales. Archbishop-elect Moth will become the 12th Archbishop of Westminster, succeeding Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who has served in the role since 2009. This appointment places Moth at the helm of one of the most prominent Catholic positions in the United Kingdom, overseeing approximately 6 million Catholics.

From Zambia to Westminster: Moth’s Journey

Bishop Richard Moth was born in Chingola, Zambia, in 1958 and was raised in Kent after his family returned to the UK. Ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Southwark on 3 July 1982, Archbishop-elect Moth has served as Bishop of Arundel and Brighton since 2015. Before that, on July 25, 2009, Archbishop Moth was elected Military Ordinary for Great Britain, receiving episcopal consecration on September 29. His extensive ecclesiastical experience includes serving as a canon lawyer and army chaplain.

Champion of Social Justice

Bishop Richard Moth regularly speaks out on social concerns such as prisons and has been a vocal advocate for vulnerable communities. Bishop Moth chairs The Plater Trust, an organisation dedicated to the support of projects across England and Wales that put into practice the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. The incoming Archbishop regularly speaks out on social issues including the cost-of-living crisis and two-child benefit cap, welcoming the scrapping of the cap saying that ‘large families are a blessing’ and that it had pushed many families into poverty.

Looking Ahead: Installation and Expectations

Archbishop-elect Moth will be Installed at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, 14 February 2026. Archbishop-elect Moth said he was ‘moved greatly by the trust that Pope Leo has placed in me’ and expressed gratitude for the support being given to him by Cardinal Vincent Nichols at this time. As the new spiritual leader, Moth brings considerable episcopal experience, pastoral care, and a commitment to Catholic social teaching that will shape the future direction of the Church in England and Wales during what promises to be a decade of service.