The Diocese of Bristol is pleased to announce the appointment of six representatives to the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC), who will play a vital role in the selection of the next Bishop of Bristol.
The election process, held on Thursday 18 September, was conducted by an independent external organisation to ensure transparency and fairness. All members of the Vacancy in See committee were invited to stand for nomination, reflecting the diocese’s commitment to openness and inclusivity.
The diocese’s representatives to the CNC are (from left to right):
- Dr Brendan Biggs
- The Very Revd Mandy Ford
- The Revd Will Fairburn
- Mrs Alison Rowe
- Mrs Caroline Jowett-Ive
- The Revd Kat Campion-Spall
What is the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC)?
The CNC is the national body responsible for selecting new diocesan bishops in the Church of England. The CNC is made up of representatives from the local diocese and the wider church, as well as national church leaders. Its role is to prayerfully discern and recommend candidates to the Prime Minister and the King, who formally appoint the new bishop. The process is designed to ensure that the needs and hopes of the diocese are fully considered, alongside the wider mission of the Church.
A process of spirit and joy
Committee members praised the election process as transparent, fair, and highly professional. Many also reflected on the spirit of joy and unity that has characterised the work of the Vacancy in See committee throughout this important period of discernment.
We give thanks for the dedication and prayerful service of all those involved, and ask for continued prayers for the CNC representatives as they undertake this significant responsibility.
A prayer for the Vacancy in See
God of calling, you call shepherds to lead your people –
Rachel who was the ancestor of your people,
and David who was their king –
guide by your Holy Spirit all who are entrusted
with discerning who you are calling to be our Bishop.
Give us a shepherd after your own heart,
who will serve with humility and vision,
to guide and lead us in your ways.
May this time of waiting be filled with grace, anticipation,
and a renewed sense of your mission in the world,
as we seek to follow Jesus, serve others and transform the communities of this diocese.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd.
Amen.