Process to appoint new bishop begins

Following the retirement of Bishop Peter in May, the process to find his successor has begun. The diocese is now looking to the future, and taking the necessary steps needed to select the next Bishop of Bath and Wells.

The appointment of a new bishop is made by Her Majesty the Queen, on the advice of the Prime Minister, following an established process which involves representatives from the diocese, the archbishops and national representatives from General Synod.

 Archdeacon Simon is chairing the Vacancy in See Committee, which is responsible for drawing up a document outlining the diocese’s hope for a new bishop. The committee also selects the diocesan representatives for the interview panel.

Simon says, “Selecting a bishop is a long and complex process following a national timetable. It is envisaged that interviews will take place in the spring of 2022.  The Vacancy in See Committee wants to listen to God and listen to the voices of people across the diocese in churches and the wider community.  Over the next months all across the diocese will be invited to share their views as we try to discern the leadership required at this time.  Please make sure that your voice is heard.”

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