Our Archbishop

Archbishop Primus of the Ancient Catholic Church and Bishop of the Diocese of the East Angles

The Most Reverend Dr. Felix Gibbins B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E. (Cantab), M.A., M.Th., S.T.L, D.Div., S.S.C.C., O.S.B. Cam., is the spiritual leader and Primus of the Ancient Catholic Archdiocese of the United Kingdom, and the seventh successor of the ancient bishopric of St Felix of Dunwich (630 AD). He provides for the spiritual needs of the clergy, women, and men religious and people of the archdiocese. His office is responsible for overseeing the ministries, activities, and programs of the Archdiocese of the East Angles, the Province of the United Kingdom and is Rector of the St Thomas Aquinas Seminary.

Through the Archbishop’s Office, Archbishop Felix shepherds the people of the archdiocese with the assistance of auxiliary bishops and his deacons and priests who lead the parishes and ministries under the archbishop’s guidance and leadership. Together they work to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and to help the faithful encounter the living Christ through conversion, communion, and solidarity. Read on to find out more about our Archbishop.

Biography

Archbishop Felix was born in Swansea, South Wales in 1980, with a Celtic heritage stretching back centuries in both Wales and Ireland and is the 109th successor of St David of Wales - the first Archbishop of Wales – through apostolic lines of succession.

He was named Archbishop of the East Angles on 5th January 2019, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, the first archbishop for the newly re-consecrated archdiocese that includes fourteen English counties: Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland, Leicestershire, Huntingdonshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Middlesex. He was installed on 25th January, the Feast of the Conversion of St Paul, after serving as the Bishop of Dunwich and Elmham for two years.

His education began at the University of Wales Swansea in 1998, achieving a Bachelor of Arts and spent eight years working closely with all church denominations throughout the United Kingdom as an ecumenical minister, responsible for supporting churches with their evangelising mission to reach more people in their communities. Archbishop Felix first heard his call during this ministry and was finally ordained deacon in 2011.

During his time as deacon, Archbishop Felix used his experience in church communication to reach out to government and bring about significant changes to social laws that would go onto impact millions. He represented the church by invitation at 10 Downing Street to meet with Prime Minister David Cameron and members of his cabinet. Latterly he has met with local Members of Parliament, the Leader of the House of Lords and His Majesty, King Charles III, as part of his wider work to improve the public image of the church.

He served the Parish of St David in Norfolk for six years as deacon, leading to ordination as priest at St Mary's Church, Houghton-on-the-Hill in 2017. This was a joyous celebration in one of the oldest churches in the United Kingdom, a foundation of St Felix himself, circa 630 AD.

He continued to serve in the Parish of St David as priest and chaplain to Norfolk Constabulary. During this time Archbishop Felix researched and compiled a collection of liturgies from the early church fathers, including liturgies used by the ancient Celtic church between 400 - 1400 AD. For the first time in centuries, these liturgies were sung in the cathedral church, once again maintaining direct liturgical connections with the saints of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

Consecration as Bishop of the East Angles

Archbishop Felix was consecrated as the seventh bishop of the East Angles on 9th June 2019, reconfirming the direct line of apostolic succession with the early saints of East Anglia, and choosing for his motto one of the Seven I AM sayings of Jesus: Via et veritas et vita; "The Way, The Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6).

He became instrumental in the establishment of ecumenical partnerships with other denominations, including a large global church and mission in India. His relationship with the ministers and people of the church in India continue to this day and he considers it a personal project and as such continued as Episcopal Visitor of the diocese in India after elevation to archbishop. His ecumenical work continues to be a pillar of his ministry, and as archbishop this extends to all faiths within the archdiocese. As archbishop he is also Dean of the Council of Bishops of the United Kingdom, providing a guiding influence on the developing nature of ministry in the modern church. He is a strong proponent of being Primus Inter Pares; 'First Among Equals', and as such enjoys open discussions with his fellow bishops and clergy.

In addition to his episcopal responsibilities, Archbishop Felix has served as bishop pro-tempore for newly established dioceses worldwide, providing essential guidance in their formation. His experience as both ordinary and senior bishop is crucial for these communities, as he oversees the implementation of ministry programmes, including education for seminarians and ongoing training for clergy. His leadership ensures that sacramental worship is fully operational, addressing the unique needs of the faithful in diverse contexts and guiding local clergy to deliver authentic Catholic ministry.

Shepherding a New Generation of Clergy: St Thomas Aquinas Seminary

Archbishop Felix also serves as the Rector of St Thomas Aquinas Seminary, an institution dedicated to theological education through online learning. Under his leadership, the seminary has emerged as a pioneering model for training new clergy worldwide. Here, traditional theological instruction is seamlessly integrated with vocational apprenticeships, establishing a strong foundation for comprehensive clerical formation.

As Rector, Archbishop Felix oversees all aspects of the seminary’s formation program. He is responsible for shaping a rigorous academic curriculum that draws on centuries of theological scholarship while embracing modern innovations in digital education. By ensuring that the curriculum remains both faithful to tradition and adaptable to contemporary ministry challenges, he cultivates an environment where seminarian formation is both intellectually robust and spiritually transformative.

The innovative program at St Thomas Aquinas Seminary offers students the opportunity to gain essential theological knowledge through interactive online courses and virtual lectures. This academic component is complemented by a series of vocational apprenticeships that immerse seminarians in practical ministry settings. These apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in parish life, community service, and pastoral care, thereby equipping emerging clergy with the tools they need to address the real-world challenges of ministry.

In his role as Rector, Archbishop Felix is deeply committed to mentoring seminarians, guiding them not only in their academic pursuits but also in their spiritual and personal growth. His guidance helps to foster a rich, vibrant community of future leaders who are prepared to serve with integrity, compassion, and a profound commitment to their calling.

Member of the Benedictine Camaldolese Order

Archbishop Felix Gibbins is deeply rooted in the spiritual heritage of the Order of St Benedict, particularly the Camaldolese branch, which derives its name from the Holy Hermitage of Camaldoli nestled in the mountains of central Italy. This rich tradition emphasizes a balanced life of prayer, contemplation, and service, blending communal monastic living with the profound solitude of the eremitical life.

As a committed member of the Camaldolese Order, Archbishop Felix incorporates the structure of the monastic Hours into his daily prayer practice, joining his brothers and sisters worldwide in the unified rhythm of devotion that transcends time and space. This sacred observance allows him to participate in the timeless prayer of the Church, strengthening his connection to the Benedictine principles of humility, stability, and obedience.

Beyond his personal devotion, Archbishop Felix remains an open and welcoming spiritual guide for all who seek the wisdom of the Benedictine way. Drawing inspiration from the Rule of St Benedict and the Rule of St Romuald, he provides traditional spiritual counseling and reflective insights, helping others navigate the challenges of modern life through the lens of monastic wisdom. His role as a bridge between this ancient tradition and contemporary seekers highlights the enduring relevance of Benedictine spirituality in fostering balance, prayerful living, and spiritual renewal in today’s world. Archbishop Felix’s life and ministry continue to reflect the enduring light of Camaldolese monasticism, offering a sanctuary of wisdom and peace for all who seek it.

Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary

Archbishop Felix is a devout and consecrated member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, having embraced this sacred commitment on June 10th, 2015. This profound dedication reflects his deep devotion to the love and mercy personified in the Sacred Hearts. His spiritual journey within this Congregation is characterized by his passionate commitment to unveil the transformative power of God’s love—a love that is both imprinted on His heart and mirrored in the heart of Mary.

On the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 19th, 2020, Archbishop Felix consecrated the entire archdiocese to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary. This momentous act was a public declaration of his desire to see every soul within the archdiocese embrace the boundless love of God and Mary. His consecration calls upon everyone to contemplate, live, and proclaim this divine love and to allow it to illuminate their lives and communities.

Archbishop Felix welcomes and encourages all individuals who feel an inner stirring towards a deeper personal consecration and enthronement to the Sacred Heart. He offers his support, advice, and spiritual guidance to anyone interested in exploring the rich benefits that come from this blessed calling. If you wish to embark on this transformative journey, please feel free to contact the Archbishop's Office for assistance and prayerful counsel, as you take steps toward embracing the Sacred Heart's life-changing grace.

Through his ministry, Archbishop Felix consistently advocates for the marginalised and disenfranchised, reminding us all of Christ's example of unconditional love, and urging everyone to embody this love in our diverse, often divided world. He invites those seeking spiritual guidance and companionship on their faith journey to reach out to his office, embodying the call to serve and uplift all members of the Church.

Guardian of the Order of the Temple of Solomon

Archbishop Felix Gibbins serves as a Guardian of the Order of the Temple of Solomon, a modern manifestation of an ancient spiritual tradition. The Order draws its inspiration from the medieval Knights Templar and the sacred legacy of Solomon’s Temple, embracing principles of chivalry, devotion, scholarly inquiry, and service.

As a member of this Order, Archbishop Felix plays a key role in preserving and promoting its rich heritage. The Order is dedicated to exploring and reviving timeless values and mystical traditions while engaging with contemporary issues through charitable activities, academic research, and interfaith dialogue. Its work spans from the pursuit of historical studies to meaningful community outreach, embodying the spirit of service and honour that has defined its legacy over the centuries.

Archbishop Felix’s involvement reflects his commitment to a higher calling—one that transcends ritual to reconnect modern faith with enduring historical lessons. Through his active participation in the Order, he nurtures a community that values both ancient wisdom and modern insight, inspiring others to rediscover a path of spiritual depth and enlightenment.

In his dual role as Archbishop of the Ancient Catholic Church, he provides essential spiritual guidance and support for Order members, effectively bridging his ecclesiastical responsibilities with the Order’s mission as a living testament to an ancient tradition.

The Coat of Arms of Archbishop Felix Gibbins OSB Cam

The dexter side of the coat of arms (left), considered the side of greatest honour, shows the medal of St Benedict on a field of white to represent the archbishop's personal connection with the order and its important place in his prayer life. On the lower dexter can be found three scallop shells and the red lion rampant. Archbishop Felix's family name, Gibbins, leads directly to a direct ancestor, a Knight Crusader, who accompanied Richard the Lion Heart to Palestine in his expedition against the Saracens and was placed in command of the small outpost of Jaffa (1192 AD). The King rescued the besieged outpost by dividing his army by sea and land. Due to the bravery of his ancestor, the King gave permission for the commander to use the royal lion of Coeur de Lion, rampant, holding in its paws a scallop shell, indicating a Crusader. The three scallop shells represent the Holy Trinity.

The sinister side of the coat of arms (right) shows at the top a reference to the Templar cross, a link to the Gibbins family's history in the Holy Land, the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (the archbishop is a devout consecrated member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary), and the Holy Spirit to reference his apostolic succession from St Peter. In the lower right sinister is the coat of arms of St David of Wales with the Archbishop David's cross, crozier and mitre emblazoned above the flag.

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Archbishop Felix Gibbins is the spiritual leader and Primus of the Ancient Catholic Archdiocese of the United Kingdom, and the seventh successor of St Felix of Dunwich.

Meet Archbishop Felix

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