The discernment process for the appointment of the Bishop of Dunwich is underway. This is a really exciting time to join our diocese, particularly as we have just embarked upon a period of listening to develop our vision and strategy for the next season. The Advisory Panel includes:
- The Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, The Rt Revd Dr Joanne Woolway Grenfell
- The Bishop of Bradwell, the Rt Revd Adam Atkinson
- Deborah Cadman OBE DL
- The Revd Mark Bee
- Canon Naomi Gyane
- Simon Gash, Bishop’s Council
- Simon Martin, Headteacher Debenham High School
- The Revd Canon Brynn Bayman, Chaplain – Framlingham College
- Ali Hobson, Pioneer – Spring Churches Benefice
Timing
- Shortlisting will take place at the end of July.
- Interviews are planned for the end of September.
- If the nominated candidate is not already in episcopal orders, their consecration is likely to take place on 26 January 2027 and a welcome service at St Edmundsbury Cathedral is scheduled to take place on Sunday 31 January 2027.
Bishop Joanne said "First and foremost, this is a process of discernment. Please be aware that I will be praying for everyone who may be asking if God is calling them to Suffolk. I hope also that whatever your individual discernment, you will also pray for us and for all those exploring God’s calling to this wonderful place. Indeed, our dedicated prayer as we embark upon this period of discernment as we seek a new Bishop of Dunwich can be found below"
Prayer for the discernment of the See of Dunwich
Gracious God,
You are the shepherd of your people in Suffolk and the source of all wisdom and truth. In this time of discernment, we seek your guidance as we prayerfully consider the appointment of a new Bishop for the See of Dunwich, to support ministry across Suffolk.
Grant to those entrusted with this responsibility hearts attentive to your Spirit. Give them clarity of mind, depth of understanding, and a steadfast commitment to your Gospel. May they look not to worldly measures of leadership, but to the fruits of faith, humility, and faithful service.
Raise up among us a shepherd after your own heart – one who will lead with compassion, speak with courage, and walk in integrity. May this servant strengthen your Church, with care for those on farms and villages, towns and ports, show tenderness to the young and elderly alike, and produce a harvest of love, as rich and joyous as the produce of Suffolk itself.
This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.