The Diocese of London has published its Statement of Needs for the appointment of the next Bishop of London. This Statement sets out the current context of London, as well as the hoped for priorities, character, gifts and experience of its new Bishop.
The Statement presents London as an extraordinarily large and diverse context for mission and ministry, standing at a moment of spiritual openness and opportunity. It highlights growing numbers, especially among younger people, expressing a longing for God, renewed attentiveness to Scripture, and a desire for prayer, spirituality, community, purpose and mission.
Listening to the Diocese: insights from consultation and reflection
Drawing on a wide process of listening, consultation and reflection, the Statement describes a Diocese marked by rich diversity in tradition. Many churches increasingly reflect the global body of Christ and minister in their communities with a missional heart, offering both spiritual and practical care.
At the same time, diversity in theology and practice can give rise to disunity. The consultation revealed a desire for a new bishop to unite the Diocese around the gospel and to help churches rediscover a shared commitment to mission.
The kind of Bishop the Diocese is seeking
Within this context, and drawing on the wording in the Ordinal, the Diocese is seeking a Bishop whose priorities will be to lead in mission and ministry as a servant leader, equip Christ’s flock as a guardian of the faith and sacraments, and govern as a loving shepherd.
The Statement recognises that to fulfil these priorities, the Bishop will need a humble, godly and prayerful character, with gifts and experience in evangelism, teaching, local church ministry, and pastoral leadership that builds trust and fosters unity.
Sarah Tett, Chair of the Vacancy in See Committee, said:
It has been encouraging to see how a large and diverse committee has worked together with a shared desire to serve the Diocese well at this important moment. Through our consultation, which received over 1,000 responses, clear themes have emerged across traditions and contexts, reflecting both the opportunities before us and the challenges we must face.
This Statement of Needs seeks to express that shared perspective, shaped by careful listening and prayer. We commend it to the Diocese and invite all to engage with it, and to join in praying for wisdom and discernment as we seek the next Bishop of London.”
The publication of the Statement of Needs forms part of the formal process for appointing the next Bishop of London and will inform those involved in discernment and selection in the months ahead. Clergy, parishes and congregations are encouraged to read the document and to pray for wisdom, unity and discernment as the process continues.
Further information, including the full Statement of Needs is available on the diocesan website.