The Church of England is inviting people to suggest candidates to switch Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury.
Welby stood down from his role in January after a report heavily criticised his role in coping with John Smyth, one among the worst abusers within the Church of England. He was installed as Archbishop in 2013, succeeding Rowan Williams, and had been resulting from retire before he became engulfed within the scandal that forced his departure.
People have until 28 March to recommend their suggestions to the Crown Nominations Commissions (CNC).
The Church said that it welcomed suggestions not only from England, but from the worldwide Anglican Communion, which the brand new Archbishop will likely be the spiritual leader of, once elected.
The pondering behind the general public consultation is that a spread of views from extraordinary members of the laity will help the Church “higher understand the qualities that the subsequent Archbishop must have to satisfy the needs of the Church today and within the years to return”.
Anyone wishing to present their input, can accomplish that here.
After the closing of nominations, the candidates will likely be considered by a 20-strong CNC panel. So far the membership of that panel has not been determined, although for the primary time five spots on the panel will go to members of the Anglican Church abroad.
The panel will meet in May, June and September to make its deliberations before a final vote by 17 members of the panel. In order to be elected, the successful candidate should have a two-thirds majority.
The Church has asked its members to wish for the appointment of a recent spiritual leader, publishing this prayer for the faithful:
Heavenly Father,
shepherd of your Church,
send us a faithful pastor
to guide with wisdom, courage, and love,
proclaiming your Gospel,
celebrating the sacraments,
and guiding your people in unity and truth.
Strengthen your Church, we pray,
and direct us in your ways;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
