Roger Jupp: A Life of Service in the Anglican Church
Roger Alan Jupp, born in 1956, is a notable figure in the British Anglican community, having served as a bishop and parish minister throughout his career. His journey from a young boy in London to the Bishop of Popondota showcases a life dedicated to faith, education, and service, marked by significant contributions to both local and international church communities.
Early Life and Education
Roger Jupp was born in London and spent his formative years in Blackheath. His early education took place at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Hatcham Boys’ Grammar School from 1968 to 1974. Following his secondary education, he pursued higher studies at St Edmund Hall, Oxford, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology in 1978. He later completed his Master of Arts degree in 1982.
In addition to his theological training at Oxford, Jupp attended Chichester Theological College from 1979 to 1980. His academic pursuits did not end there; he also obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from St Mary’s University, Twickenham, in 1996. It was during his time at the University of Oxford that he developed a keen interest in the history of the Church of England during the nineteenth century.
Before fully committing to the path of ordination, Jupp worked as a nursing auxiliary at St Christopher’s Hospice in Sydenham. This experience provided him with insights into care and compassion—qualities that would undoubtedly shape his ministry.
Ordained Ministry
Jupp’s journey into ordained ministry began when he was ordained deacon in 1980 and subsequently became a priest in 1981. His early clerical career included serving as an assistant curate for various parishes: Newbold with Dunston (1980–1983), Cowley St John (1983–1985), and Islington St James with St Philip (1985–1986). These roles allowed him to gain invaluable experience within diverse church settings.
In 1986, he became Vicar of Lower Beeding while also serving as domestic chaplain to the Area Bishop of Horsham, Ivor Colin Docker. His leadership abilities were further recognized when he took on the role of Vicar of Burgess Hill St John from 1990 to 1993 and then became Team Rector of Burgess Hill St John with St Edward from 1993 to 1994.
However, Jupp’s journey took an unexpected turn due to the Church of England’s decision to ordain women as priests. From 1994 to 1997, he transitioned into the Roman Catholic Church and trained as a teacher at Saint Mary’s College, University of Surrey. This period away from the Church of England was pivotal in shaping his views on ministry and ecclesiology.
Upon returning to the Church of England in 1997, Jupp received permission to officiate within the Diocese of Chichester and served as assistant curate at Aldwick until 2000. His connections within the church community led him to Papua New Guinea, where he accepted an appointment as Principal of Newton Theological College in Popondota, Oro Province.
Episcopal Ministry
The year 2003 marked a significant milestone in Jupp’s career when he was elected Bishop of Popondota. He was consecrated as a bishop on February 23, 2003, at Resurrection Cathedral in Papua New Guinea. His appointment came at a time when the region faced various challenges, including social issues and spiritual needs that required effective leadership and guidance.
Unfortunately, Jupp’s episcopal tenure was cut short due to health concerns; he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition that necessitated a triple bypass surgery shortly after his consecration. The impact of this health challenge forced him to resign from his position in 2005.
After stepping down from his role as bishop, Jupp returned to the Diocese of Chichester and took on the role of Priest-in-Charge at Christ Church in St Leonards-on-Sea. By 2006, he had been made Rector of this parish and continued serving there until 2012 while also holding the title of Honorary Assistant Bishop between 2005 and 2012.
From 2012 until 2018, Jupp served as Vicar of St Laurence’s Church in Long Eaton while simultaneously being Priest-in-Charge at Holy Trinity Church in Ilkeston within the Diocese of Derby. Despite his extensive experience and contributions, he did not receive the designation of Honorary Assistant Bishop from the Bishop of Derby
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