In our own diocese, we have been given such a shepherd in the Right Reverend Philip Egan.
His life, formed through study, prayer, and pastoral service, reveals not only a leader of the Church, but a man shaped by a deep desire to lead souls into the heart of Christ.
As we reflect more deeply, we begin to see that his ministry is part of a much greater story – the ongoing work of Christ guiding His Church through those He calls.
As we reflect together on the ministry of a bishop, we are reminded that the Church is not simply structured – it is shepherded. Christ Himself is the Good Shepherd, and He entrusts His flock to those called to share in His mission.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11, RSV-CE).
In this light, the ministry of Bishop Philip Egan becomes something deeply meaningful for us. It is not simply administrative leadership – it is spiritual fatherhood, rooted in sacrifice, prayer, and a profound responsibility for souls.
Born on 14 November 1955 in Altrincham, Cheshire, Bishop Egan’s early life was marked by a strong intellectual formation. His studies at King’s College London in classics provided him with a deep appreciation for language, history, and philosophical thought¹. This intellectual grounding would later serve his theological work, enabling him to engage both faith and reason in a meaningful way.
His vocation to the priesthood led him to formation at Allen Hall and the Venerable English College in Rome. There, immersed in the heart of the Church, he undertook theological studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University². This period of formation was not simply academic – it was spiritual, shaping his understanding of the Church as universal, living, and deeply
Ordained a priest in 1984 for the Diocese of Shrewsbury¹, his early ministry was marked by pastoral service in parishes, as well as chaplaincy roles and hospital ministry. These experiences placed him close to the realities of human life – joy, suffering, illness, and searching. It is here that a priest’s heart is truly formed.
We are reminded of the words of St Gregory the Great, who wrote that a shepherd must be close to his people, sharing in their struggles while guiding them toward God. Bishop Egan’s early ministry reflects this pastoral closeness.
Later, his work as a professor of fundamental theology and Dean of Studies at Oscott Seminary² reveals another dimension of his vocation – the formation of future priests. This role carries immense importance. To teach those who will themselves become shepherds is to shape the future of the Church in a quiet but profound way.
St John Henry Newman, whose thought Bishop Egan has studied extensively, reminds us that faith is not static but living. This intellectual and spiritual depth can be seen in Bishop Egan’s approach to theology – one that seeks not only to inform but to transform.
A Bishop for Our Time
In 2012, Bishop Egan was appointed as the eighth Bishop of Portsmouth¹, a moment that marked a new chapter not only for him, but for the entire diocese. His episcopal ordination at St John’s Cathedral⁴ brought him into a role that is both deeply spiritual and widely demanding.
The Diocese of Portsmouth spans a large and diverse area³, encompassing urban centres, rural communities, coastal towns, and island populations. To shepherd such a varied flock requires adaptability, patience, and a deep reliance on God’s grace.
At the beginning of his ministry, Bishop Egan asked for prayers that he might be “humble and holy, orthodox, creative and courageous”⁶. These qualities reflect the balance required of a bishop – fidelity to truth, openness to the needs of the present, and courage to lead in challenging times.
“I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding” (Jeremiah 3:15, RSV-CE).
In a world where many voices compete for attention, the role of a bishop as teacher becomes ever more important. Bishop Egan has consistently sought to present the teachings of the Church with clarity and conviction, while also engaging thoughtfully with contemporary issues.
Teaching, Evangelisation, and the New Evangelisation
One of the hallmarks of Bishop Egan’s ministry is his commitment to evangelisation. He has spoken often about the need for a “New Evangelisation” – a renewed effort to bring the Gospel to a world that has, in many ways, drifted from its Christian roots.
This mission is not only for bishops or priests – it is for all of us.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19, RSV-CE).
Bishop Egan’s emphasis on evangelisation invites us to reflect on our own role in sharing the faith. Evangelisation is not always about grand gestures. Often, it is found in simple acts – kindness, honesty, patience, and the quiet witness of a life lived in Christ.
St Thérèse of Lisieux reminds us that small acts, done with great love, have immense value. In this way, the bishop’s call becomes our call.
The Heart of the Shepherd – In Corde Iesu
Bishop Egan’s episcopal motto, In Corde Iesu – “In the Heart of Jesus”² – offers a profound insight into his spiritual vision.
The Sacred Heart is the symbol of Christ’s love – a love that is wounded, poured out, and freely given. It is a love that does not withdraw in the face of suffering, but enters into it.
“Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end” (John 13:1, RSV-CE).
To live and minister “in the heart of Jesus” is to be rooted in this love. It is to lead not with authority alone, but with compassion, patience, and sacrifice.
St Margaret Mary Alacoque, who received the revelations of the Sacred Heart, described this love as burning with desire for souls. This same love is reflected in the calling of every bishop.
Sanctifying the People of God
The bishop’s role is not only to teach, but to sanctify.
Through the sacraments – especially the Eucharist – Bishop Egan participates in the life-giving work of Christ. Each Mass, each confirmation, each ordination becomes a moment of grace.
“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ?” (1 Corinthians 10:16, RSV-CE).
For us, these moments are invitations. They call us to deeper participation, greater reverence, and a renewed awareness of God’s presence.
St John Vianney once said that if we truly understood the Mass, we would be overwhelmed with joy. This reminds us that the sacraments are not routine – they are encounters with the living God.
The Cross and the Shepherd’s Burden
To be a bishop is also to carry a cross.
Responsibility for a diocese brings challenges – decisions, difficulties, and the weight of caring for many souls. This hidden burden is often unseen, yet deeply real.
“I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls” (2 Corinthians 12:15, RSV-CE).
These words of St Paul reflect the heart of a true shepherd. Bishop Egan’s ministry, like that of all bishops, involves sacrifice – often quiet, often unnoticed.
St John of the Cross reminds us that love is proven in suffering. In this sense, the bishop’s role is deeply united with the Cross of Christ.
Our Response – A Living Communion
As members of the diocese, we are not passive. We are part of a living communion.
“I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions… be made for all who are in high positions” (1 Timothy 2:1–2, RSV-CE).
We are called to pray for our bishop, to support him, and to walk in unity with him. This unity is not merely organisational – it is spiritual.
St Ignatius of Antioch teaches that where the bishop is, there the Church is. This reminds us that our connection to our bishop is part of our connection to the wider Body of Christ.
Practically, we can:
- Pray daily for Bishop Egan
- Participate actively in parish and diocesan life
- Remain open to learning and growing in faith
- Support one another as members of one family
Living as a Diocesan Family
The image of the Church as a family is not accidental. It reflects a reality in which we are united – not by convenience, but by grace.
Bishop Egan, as our shepherd, plays a central role in this unity. Yet each of us also has a part to play.
St Teresa of Calcutta reminds us that we are called not to do great things, but small things with great love. In this way, the life of the diocese is built not only through leadership, but through faithful daily living.
Prayer to Our Lady of Lourdes
O Our Lady of Lourdes,
Mother of the Church and guide of the faithful,
we entrust to you our bishop and our diocese.
Intercede for Bishop Philip Egan,
that he may be strengthened in wisdom, courage, and love.
Guide him as he shepherds the people entrusted to his care,
and help us to walk in unity and faithfulness.
Lead us always to your Son,
that we may live in the fullness of His truth and grace.
Amen.
A Prayer for all who read this blog post and for all who never will
Heavenly Father,
we thank You for the gift of our shepherd.
Bless Bishop Philip Egan,
strengthen him in his calling,
and guide him in all that he does.
Help us to support him through our prayers and faith,
and to grow together as one family in Christ.
Amen.
Final Prayer – A Prayerful Reflection
O Shepherd kind, with heart aflame,
You call us each and know our name.
Through guiding light and steadfast care,
You lead us on with faithful prayer.
In trials deep or quiet days,
You draw our hearts to sacred ways.
O Lord, keep us in love so true,
and lead us ever close to You.
Amen.
Parish Invitation
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20, RSV-CE)
You are warmly invited to join our parish community. Come to Mass, come to regular confession, take part in our parish activities, join our Living Rosary Group, and read our latest newsletter. There is a place for each of us – and we journey together in faith.
📚 References
1. Philip Egan, Wikipedia, accessed 2026.
2. Diocese of Portsmouth, “Bishop Philip Egan – Biography,” accessed 2026.
3. Diocese of Portsmouth, “About the Diocese,” accessed 2026.
4. “Bishop of Portsmouth (Catholic),” Wikipedia, accessed 2026.
5. The News, Portsmouth, “Bishop Philip Egan’s Easter Message,” accessed 2026.
6. LifeSiteNews, “New UK bishop asks for prayers…,” accessed 2026.
1st Image courtesy of - www.portsmouthvocations.org/bishop-philip-egan-s-story
2nd Image courtesy of - https://mailchi.mp/portsmouthdiocese/issue527#Bishop
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