The Revd Gaby Doherty was licensed as Priest-in-Charge of St Stephen’s, Southmead. Gaby was licensed by the Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon in St Stephen’s Church on 11th June 2025. The celebration began with an international food festival and culminated in a combined licensing and confirmation service.
Gaby has served as Curate-in-Charge at St Stephen’s for the past 19 months, having previously been Curate at St Matthew’s, Kingsdown, Bristol. She was appointed to Southmead in 2023 following the departure of Revd Jon Roberts, and was recognised early on for her collaborative leadership and pastoral heart.
Reflecting upon her new role, Revd Gaby said:
“There should be no barriers to worship. Everyone should feel welcome to come into the building and see for themselves what Jesus is doing here.
She also expressed her gratitude to Bishop Neil, for his creativity and boldness in holding both the licensing and confirmation within the same service.
Please join us in praying for Gaby as she begins this new season of ministry.