[Ely Announce] Press release - choosing a new Bishop of Ely

[Owen Spencer-Thomas]

Choosing a new Bishop of Ely
      The Diocese of Ely is seeking views from members of the public on the qualities they would like to see in their next Bishop. The process of finding a new Bishop of Ely follows the recent announcement of Dr Anthony Russell's retirement in January 2010. 

      The first step is to put together A Description of the Diocese and Statement of Needs which will outline the vision for the next stage of the Diocese's life and the kind of person best suited to lead it. This time round the Diocese is extending its consultation to give everyone an opportunity to submit their views. 

      "We are keen to hear from a broad range of people living in Cambridgeshire and west Norfolk and we are inviting them to give their views," said Chairman of the Diocesan Vacancy in See Committee, Archdeacon of Cambridge, the Ven John Beer. "As a Bishop is both a public and religious figure, the Church wants to consult as extensively as possible. At this stage the Committee is not looking for names." 

      Once the Statement of Needs is completed, it will be submitted to the Crown Nominations Commission which, alongside six diocesan representatives, will work with the Archbishop of Canterbury to choose the next Bishop early in 2010. It is anticipated the new Bishop of Ely will take up his duties by the autumn. 

      During the interregnum the Bishop of Huntingdon, Dr David Thomson, will have overall pastoral care of the Diocese until the new Bishop is enthroned. 

      Typewritten submissions on not more than two sides of A4 should be sent to the Ven John Beer, St Botolph's Rectory, 1a Summerfield, Cambridge, CB3 9HE or by email to archdeacon.cambridge at ely.anglican.org 

      The closing date for public comments is 26 October 2009. An open meeting will be held on 30 November 2009 in Ely Cathedral at 7.30 pm. 



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      For details and more information: 

      The Venerable John Beer 
      St Botolph's Rectory 
      1a Summerfield 
      Cambridge 
      CB3 9HE 

      Phone: 01223 350424 
      archdeacon.cambridge at ely.anglican.org 



      Canon Owen Spencer-Thomas, MBE 
      Bishop's Press Officer 
      52 Windsor Road 
      Cambridge 
      CB4 3JN 

      Phone: 01223 358448 
      Mobile: 07801 492151 
      email: owenst at btinternet.com 


      4th August 2009
      Ref 0962