The Church of England has taken a significant step towards selecting its next leader, with the election of the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, to the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) for the See of Canterbury. This prestigious commission is tasked with finding the perfect candidate to succeed the current Archbishop of Canterbury, a role that holds immense responsibility and influence in the Church of England and the global Anglican Communion. As Bishop Graham joins the Archbishop of York, Most Revd Stephen Cottrell, on the CNC, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the Church’s needs and challenges. With his appointment, the CNC is now poised to begin its crucial work of identifying the ideal candidate for this revered position.
The CNC’s membership is still taking shape, with the remaining members set to be announced in early April. Once the full complement of commissioners is in place, the group will convene for its first meeting in May, followed by additional meetings in July and September. During these gatherings, the CNC will engage in a thorough and prayerful process to define the role profile and person specification for the next Archbishop of Canterbury. This will involve careful consideration of the Church’s needs, the challenges it faces, and the qualities required of its next leader. The CNC will also compile a longlist of potential candidates, which will be narrowed down to a shortlist, and eventually, a select few will be invited for interviews. It’s a rigorous and discerning process, designed to ensure that the best possible candidate is chosen for this vital role.
Bishop Graham is deeply humbled and honored to have been elected to the CNC, and he recognizes the weight of responsibility that comes with this appointment. He is committed to listening carefully to the diverse voices within the Church, including those of the diocese of Canterbury, the wider Church of England, ecumenical partners, and the global Anglican Communion. He is particularly keen to hear from marginalized and underrepresented groups, as well as local parishioners, whose perspectives and experiences are often overlooked. By listening attentively to these voices, Bishop Graham hopes to discern the will of God and identify the candidate who is best equipped to lead the Church forward. As he embarks on this journey, he is mindful of the importance of humility, prayer, and a deep reliance on God’s guidance.
The role of Archbishop of Canterbury is a demanding and complex one, requiring a unique blend of spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and prophetic vision. The next Archbishop will need to be a compassionate and empathetic leader, able to navigate the complexities of a diverse and often divided Church. They will need to be a skilled communicator, able to inspire and motivate others, while also being willing to listen and learn from those around them. Above all, they will need to be a humble follower of Jesus, grounded in their faith and committed to serving the Church and the world. Bishop Graham’s own experience as a bishop has taught him the importance of humility and reliance on God’s grace, and he is praying that the next Archbishop will embody these qualities.
As the CNC begins its work, there is inevitably speculation about who might emerge as the next Archbishop of Canterbury. However, Bishop Graham is quick to dismiss any suggestions that he might be a candidate himself, saying that he has felt no inner calling to the role. Instead, he is content to serve the people and parishes of the Diocese of Norwich, while also pursuing his passion for environmental issues and his national and international roles. His focus is on supporting the CNC in its work, rather than seeking personal advancement. This selfless approach is a testament to Bishop Graham’s character and his commitment to serving the Church, rather than his own ambitions.
As the Church of England looks to the future, the selection of the next Archbishop of Canterbury is a critical moment in its history. The CNC’s work will be guided by prayer, discernment, and a deep commitment to finding the right leader for this pivotal role. With Bishop Graham’s election to the CNC, the Church has taken an important step towards identifying a leader who will inspire, guide, and nurture the Church in the years to come. As the process unfolds, the Church will be holding its breath, praying that God will guide the CNC in its deliberations and that the next Archbishop will be a faithful servant of the Church, leading it towards a brighter, more hopeful future. With faith, hope, and trust in God’s providence, the Church of England looks to the future with anticipation and expectation, knowing that the right leader will emerge to guide it on its journey.
