A Message from Archdeacon Rachel Mann: A Time for Rest and Healing

A personal message about faith during challenging times

Archdeacon Rachel Mann, a respected voice in the Church of England, recently announced she will be taking a leave of absence beginning March 21, 2025, to address serious health concerns related to her complex Crohn's Disease. As the Archdeacon of Salford and Bolton, Mann has been a pioneering figure in the church, notably becoming the first transgender archdeacon appointed in the Church of England in 2023.

In her heartfelt message to colleagues and friends, Mann shared that she will undergo major surgery on April 1st and expects to be away for approximately three months. During this time, Simon Cook, Area Dean of Bolton, will serve as Acting Archdeacon to ensure continuity in her work.

"Please pray for me and for those who love me," Mann wrote. "Your prayers are not only welcome, but of almost incalculable value." Drawing strength from scripture, she quoted the Psalmist: "To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; in you I hope all the day long."

Mann's message reflects both vulnerability and faith as she faces what she acknowledges will be demanding surgery. She finds comfort in the "beautiful bonds of our truest life in Jesus Christ" and
values the support of her community during this Lenten season.

Rachel Mann has served in the Diocese of Manchester for nearly two decades. Her journey included serving as curate at St. Matthew's Church Stretford, then as priest-in-charge and later rector at the Church of St. Nicholas Burnage. In 2021, she became Area Dean of Bury and Rossendale.

Beyond her ecclesiastical duties, Mann is known for her contributions as a writer of poetry, liturgy, theology, and fiction. She regularly appears on BBC radio and television programs including "Pause For Thought" and "Thought for the Day." Her academic credentials include positions as Visiting Teaching Fellow in the Manchester Writing School and Visiting Scholar at Sarum College.

Mann also serves on the Church of England's theological advisory board, the Faith And Order Commission, and is a member of the General Synod and Chair of the House of Clergy in Manchester Diocesan Synod.

When appointed as Archdeacon in 2023, Bishop David Walker praised her ability to "care for and support her clergy and church officers across the breadth of Anglican tradition, whilst providing clear leadership in the mission goals set out in our Vision and Strategy."

As the Diocese of Manchester and the broader Church community prepare to support Mann during her recovery, her message reminds us of the power of community, prayer, and faith during life's most challenging moments.

A Prayer for Archdeacon Rachel Mann

Gracious and loving God,

We lift up your servant Rachel into your care. Surround her with your peace and strength as she prepares for surgery and the journey of healing ahead. Guide the hands of her medical team, and grant them wisdom and skill. May Rachel feel the comfort of your presence and the prayers of her community, reminding her that she is held in your love. Strengthen those who care for her and give them patience and grace. In this Lenten season, may she find hope in the promise of resurrection and new life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.