Bath Abbey has announced that The Revd Canon Guy Bridgewater will be retiring from his role as Rector of Bath Abbey at the beginning of October 2025.
Guy Bridgewater has served in ordained ministry since 1987, in partnership with Jebs, his wife. Since 2018 he has been Rector of Bath Abbey leading the Abbey’s ministry, mission, and community life through a period of significant growth and change. His leadership has overseen the completion of the Footprint Project, shepherding the Abbey community through the covid pandemic, and expanding the Abbey’s welcome to city and visitors alike.
Reflecting on his retirement, Guy Bridgewater said:
“It has been an immense privilege to serve as Rector of Bath Abbey. I have been continually inspired by the dedication, creativity, and faith of this community. Bath Abbey is a place of prayer, welcome, and transformation, and I leave with deep gratitude for all we have shared together in God’s service.”
Before coming to Bath Abbey, Guy Bridgewater and Jebs, his wife, served in a range of local parishes including Weymouth, Lee Abbey, Cranbrook and Horsham, as well as at Gloucester Cathedral. They have long been recognised for their commitment to pastoral care, community engagement, and mission.
Under his guidance, Bath Abbey has continued to be a spiritual home at the heart of the city, welcoming thousands of visitors and worshippers each year. His ministry has also played a vital role in strengthening links with partner churches, charities, and organisations across Bath.
The Abbey community has had opportunities in recent weeks to celebrate Canon Guy Bridgewater’s ministry and give thanks for his service. The Revd Chantal Mason will serve as Acting Rector in the interim while the process to appoint a new Rector begins.
Revd Chantal Mason said: We are indebted to Guy and Jebs for all they have brought to Bath Abbey over the past seven years. It has been a time of significant change and they have brought wisdom and vision enabling the Abbey to be a vibrant place of worship, and to offer a warm welcome to many thousands of visitors. We wish them every blessing in their retirement”.
David Babb and Andrew Bragg, Churchwardens of Bath Abbey, said: “Guy’s contribution to Bath Abbey has been truly remarkable. He has led with compassion, vision, and faith, ensuring that the Abbey remains both a place of living worship and a welcoming landmark for all. He will be greatly missed”.
