Stephen Cottrell is a prominent English Anglican bishop, author, and public speaker best known for his role as the Archbishop of York, the second-highest position in the Church of England. Over the years, Cottrell has become a respected voice in matters of faith, leadership, and modern-day Christianity. His influence stretches beyond the pulpit, as he is also known for his books on spirituality, mission, and evangelism.
Below is a quick glance at his profile before we delve into the details of his life, career, family, and achievements.
Quick Facts about Stephen Cottrell
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell |
| Date of Birth | August 31, 1958 |
| Age | 66 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Archbishop, Author, Speaker |
| Years Active | 1984 – Present |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1 million – $3 million |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Rebecca Cottrell |
| Children | Three |
| Famous For | Archbishop of York, Christian Author |
Early Life and Education
Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell was born on August 31, 1958, in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, England. Raised in a Christian family, Cottrell grew up with a strong sense of faith and community. He attended local schools before proceeding to study at the University of London, where he earned a degree in Media Studies.
Following his call to ministry, he trained for ordination at St. Stephen’s House, Oxford, one of the leading theological colleges in the UK. His early education shaped his theological perspectives and prepared him for a life dedicated to ministry and service.
Career and Ministry Journey
Stephen Cottrell was ordained as a priest in 1985. Over the years, he served in several parishes, gaining a reputation as a passionate preacher and pastor with a gift for communication. His ability to connect faith with real-life issues made him popular among congregations and young Christians alike.
Key Milestones in His Career:
- Early Parish Work – Served in parishes in London and Chichester.
- Bishop of Reading (2004-2010) – His first major leadership position, where he became known for his progressive views and pastoral approach.
- Bishop of Chelmsford (2010-2020) – Oversaw one of the largest dioceses in the Church of England, emphasizing mission and evangelism.
- Archbishop of York (2020-Present) – Appointed as the 98th Archbishop of York, the second-most senior cleric after the Archbishop of Canterbury.
As Archbishop, Cottrell has been vocal about modernizing the church while staying true to biblical foundations.
Books and Publications
Apart from his pastoral work, Stephen Cottrell is a prolific author. He has written several books on Christian living, evangelism, and spiritual growth. Some of his notable works include:
- Hit the Ground Kneeling – A guide to effective Christian leadership.
- Do Nothing to Change Your Life – A reflection on the importance of rest and spirituality.
- Walking the Way of the Cross – Meditations on faith and discipleship.
His writings often combine theological depth with practical wisdom, making them accessible to both clergy and lay Christians.
Achievements and Contributions
Stephen Cottrell’s contributions to the Church of England and Christianity at large are significant:
- Archbishop of York: Leading one of the most influential positions in the Anglican Communion.
- Advocate for Evangelism: Passionate about spreading the Christian message in contemporary society.
- Author and Speaker: Written multiple books that have shaped Christian thought and practice.
- Leadership Training: Mentored numerous clergy and church leaders through his writings and teachings.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Promotes understanding among different faith communities.
Personal Life and Family
Stephen Cottrell is married to Rebecca Cottrell, and they have three children. Despite his busy schedule, he is known to prioritize family and often speaks about the importance of balancing ministry with personal life. He enjoys writing, traveling, and engaging in creative arts when not occupied with church duties.
Stephen Cottrell’s Net Worth
While clergy salaries are modest compared to other professions, Stephen Cottrell has earned income through his roles in the Church of England, book royalties, and public speaking engagements. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million, though his primary focus remains on ministry rather than personal wealth.
Legacy and Impact
Stephen Cottrell’s legacy lies in his progressive leadership, commitment to evangelism, and ability to communicate faith effectively in a modern world. As Archbishop of York, he continues to influence the direction of the Church of England, advocating for inclusivity, compassion, and spiritual renewal.
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FAQs about Stephen Cottrell
1. Who is Stephen Cottrell?
Stephen Cottrell is the current Archbishop of York in the Church of England, author, and Christian leader known for his writings and progressive approach to ministry.
2. How old is Stephen Cottrell?
Stephen Cottrell was born on August 31, 1958, making him 66 years old as of 2025.
3. What is Stephen Cottrell’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is between $1 million and $3 million, primarily from his church roles, books, and speaking engagements.
4. Is Stephen Cottrell married?
Yes, he is married to Rebecca Cottrell, and they have three children together.
5. What books has Stephen Cottrell written?
Some of his popular books include Hit the Ground Kneeling, Do Nothing to Change Your Life, and Walking the Way of the Cross.
6. When did Stephen Cottrell become Archbishop of York?
He was appointed as the 98th Archbishop of York in 2020.
