Christopher Cocksworth read Theology at the University of Manchester. After teaching RS and Economics in secondary education, he trained for ordination and pursued doctoral studies. Dr Cocksworth has served in parochial and chaplaincy ministry and in theological education, latterly as Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge. In 2010 he was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity by the University of London for his services to education. He has written a number of books and articles in the area of Christian theology and worship.

Bishop Christopher is Chair of the Faith and Order Commission of the Church of England. He entered the House of Lords in January 2013 where he contributes on international matters (for which he is lead Bishop), education and ethics of beginning and end of life; he also seeks to give voice to life on the ground in Coventry and Warwickshire. Christopher is married to Charlotte and they have five sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Among his hobbies, is organic fruit and vegetable gardening, and although a latecomer this is increasingly becoming quite a passion.