Welcoming the news of the appointment of the next Bishop of Sheffield on behalf of The Society, the Rt Revd Tony Robinson, Chairman of the Council of Bishops, said:

'On behalf of The Society, its bishops, priests, deacons, readers, religious and lay people, I am delighted that Bishop Philip North has been chosen by representatives of the Diocese of Sheffield and the national Church to be the next Bishop of Sheffield.

 

This appointment shows the commitment of the Church of England to live within the Five Guiding Principles. Bishop Philip has shown a strong commitment to them in his own ministry, and has worked for the flourishing of clergy and parishes of all traditions in the Diocese of Blackburn.

 

Bishop Philip can be assured of our prayers and full support as he prepares to take up this new challenge. We will also pray for the Diocese of Sheffield as they welcome him and support him.'

 

Bishop Philip speaks about his appointment here:

More information at www.glastonburypilgrimage.com

The Bishops of The Society wish you all

a Happy and Holy Christmas.

At the 2016 Forward in Faith National Assembly the Right Revd Philip North, Bishop of Burnley spoke about The Future of Catholic Life in the Church of England  and began a consultation on the Mission Priorities of The Society for the next five years.   The proposed Mission Priorities can be read here.

What Do You Think?

We now need your views on these six priorities. You might like to think about the following questions:

• Do you agree that the six priorities are the right ones for the Catholic Movement for the next 5 years? If not, what would you change?

• Which is the most important of the six, and why?

• What would the implications of this mission strategy be for your parish?

• What should be our first steps in implementing this strategy?

• Do you have any other general comments about this mission strategy?

It would be good for parishes to have this conversation at a PCC meeting, and then return a Parish response. Alternatively, you could send in your own personal reflections. All feedback will be very much valued. Please send responses to feedback@forwardinfaith.com by Friday 27 January 2017.