Help Shape our Statement of Needs

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

Following Bishop David Walker’s announcement that he intends to retire at the end of July 2027, we are beginning the process that will lead to the appointment of his successor.

One of the first stages in that process is the preparation of a Statement of Needs. This important document will help describe the life, mission, opportunities and challenges of our diocese and will inform the work of the Crown Nominations Commission as it considers who God may be calling to serve as our next bishop.

We are inviting clergy, licensed ministers, lay leaders and people across the diocese to complete a survey and share their views. Your insights will help us identify the priorities, hopes and challenges that will shape both the Statement of Needs and the wider consultation process.

You may notice that some of the questions have been written with a broader audience in mind. This is intentional. Alongside those who are actively involved in church life, we will also be seeking the views of people who live and work across our towns, cities and neighbourhoods. The survey has therefore been designed to reflect both the life of the Church and our wider mission, helping us to understand how we can best serve the communities around us and the opportunities and challenges we face together.

This is an important moment in the life of our diocese, and we are committed to ensuring that a wide range of voices are heard. We hope you will take the time to contribute and encourage others to do the same. The survey is available here http://melresearch.co.uk/manchester and will close at midnight on Monday, 6th October. Paper copies are available on request, simply email vacancyinsee@manchester.anglican.org

Above all, we ask for your prayers as we begin this journey. Prayer will be at the heart of the Vacancy in See process as we seek God’s guidance, discern where He is leading us, and reflect on the gifts and qualities needed in our next bishop. The Ven Dr Rachel Mann wrote a prayer for this Vacancy in See process before her retirement, and we encourage individuals, churches and groups across the diocese to pray it with us. Read and download the prayer here.

Thank you for taking part in this important process.

With every blessing,

Keith Lewis and the Revd Canon Grace Thomas

Chair and Vice-Chair of the Vacancy in See Committee