Published on: 25/08/2026
After four years of dedicated service to the Diocese of Sheffield, our Diocesan Registrar, Kirsty Duxbury, will be leaving to take up a new position within the National Church Institutions Legal Office.
During her time with the Diocese, Kirsty has provided expert legal guidance and support, helping to underpin the Diocese’s work and mission through a significant period of renewal and change.
Reflecting on her time in Sheffield, Kirsty said:
“It has been a real privilege to serve the Diocese of Sheffield and to play a small part in supporting its vision to see Christ-like, lively and diverse Christian communities flourish across the Diocese.
“I have greatly valued being part of the Diocese’s journey of renewal, release and rejuvenation, and the opportunity to work alongside diocesan colleagues and parish teams.
“I will miss the relationships that have been built over the past four years. The commitment, wisdom and generosity shown by colleagues across the diocesan teams, and by those serving faithfully in parishes, have made this role both rewarding and enjoyable.
“Whilst I am excited by this new opportunity, I will look back on my time in Sheffield with great affection and gratitude. I am deeply thankful for the friendship, support and encouragement I have received, and for the privilege of working with so many dedicated people.”
We are pleased to announce that Jessica Gray has been appointed as the new Diocesan Registrar and will work closely with Kirsty during the transition period.
Jessica qualified as a solicitor in November 2022 after completing the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course with the University of Law. She originally studied Historical Archaeology at the University of York, where her interest in church buildings first developed, and she continues to live in York.
Jessica began her career with Lupton Fawcett in 2015 as Registry Clerk for the Province and Diocese of York and the Diocese of Sodor and Man, serving in that role for six years before commencing her training contract. In March 2023, she was appointed Deputy Registrar to both the Diocese of York and the Diocese of Sodor and Man, positions she will continue to hold alongside her new responsibilities.
Paying tribute to Kirsty’s contribution, Bishop Pete said:
“I would like to take this opportunity to place on record our thanks to Kirsty for the outstanding service she has offered to the Diocese as our Registrar since 2022, and not least in her succession planning and handover.
“In doing so, I would also like to extend a warm welcome into the role to Jess. I believe we have made an excellent and exciting appointment and look forward to working with her and her colleagues at Flint Bishop over the coming years.”
While the handover to Jessica is completed, colleagues and parishes should continue to use Kirsty’s existing email address for all registrar-related matters. Any changes to contact arrangements will be communicated in due course.
