Bishop Marcus publishes report on unifying Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Hallam Dioceses

Bishop Marcus Stock has published a 46-page report detailing a consultation process regarding the potential unification of the Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Hallam dioceses. The report, which was sent to Pope Leo XIV at the end of August, indicates a remarkable consensus among the people of God in favor of merging the three jurisdictions.

Bishop Stock stated that a merger would help strengthen the mission of the local Church. If unified, the new diocese would serve 495,817 Catholics, combining the populations of Leeds (229,453), Hallam (140,571), and Middlesbrough (125,793). The proposal is currently under consideration by the Holy Father.