Deaneries

Deaneries are the networks of churches in each locality, inspiring, influencing and leading mission and ministry. They are served by a Deanery Synod and led by an Area Dean and Lay Dean.

The Diocese of York is divided into 21 deaneries. These groups of parishes take a lead in developing strategy for the growth of the church in every community.  Each deanery is led by an Area Dean and a Lay Dean who, working with their Deanery Synod, share in leading the parishes and benefices of the Deanery in God’s mission and in realising our vision of Living Christ’s Story.  

When a parish is without a vicar, the Area Dean works closely with the Churchwardens to ensure the smooth running of the church and is therefore a key point of contact for any enquiries. 

Developing Our Deaneries

In March 2017, the Diocesan Synod committed the diocese to a new vision for the life of our deaneries as they seek to become ‘a local network of churches, inspiring, influencing and leading mission and ministry’. It is hoped that as they seek to fulfil this vision and the three purposes of ‘Enabling Mission’, ‘Resourcing Ministry’ and ‘Supporting Relationships,’ they will find renewal in the experience of their life together.

Deanery Publications

The documents below have been produced to support this process: