In a letter dated 19 July, 2016, the Rt Rev and Rt Hon Richard Chartres, Bishop of London, announced that he would be retiring in 2017.

In the announcement of his retirement, Bishop Richard Chartres writes: ‘For my part, I have tried to follow the example of St Augustine who said, "For you I am a bishop but with you I am a Christian”. In response, His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols, referring to other words of St Augustine, said that 'I believe that Bishop Richard’s “tenure as bishop” has indeed been “of profit”.'

The Cardinal also thanked Bishop Richard for his friendship and the warm and fruitful relationship they have enjoyed over the years.

Photo: Bishop Richard Chartres and Cardinal Vincent Nichols in conversation on Faith and the Crown at Hampton Court Palace on 9 February 2016. @Mazur/Catholicnews.org.uk