Diocese's consultation ahead of bishop appointment

The Diocese of Oxford said it is looking to hear people's opinions, regardless of their faith, on what they would like to see in a bishop who will be appointed this year.

The current Bishop of Oxford, Dr Steven Croft, will retire in the summer after a decade in the role.

The diocese has opened a consultation on its website for anyone living, working or worshipping in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

The Archdeacon of Dorchester, David Tyler, said the diocese wants to hear from people about what they think are the challenges for it and the area it covers, and what qualities a new bishop should have.

"We're asking for everybody's opinion, which we value because the role is particularly focused on serving the whole of the community, not just the church," he said.

The bishop oversees 800 churches, along with about 280 schools and academies.

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