An extensive engagement process drawing participation from over 2,500 people has finished, designed to shape how the next head of the Diocese of Oxford is chosen.

People living across the diocese offered their views to help determine what qualities should be sought in the next Bishop of Oxford.

These inputs were compiled into a Statement of Needs document, outlining the role’s duties, setting, possibilities, desired qualities for the new bishop, and the character of the Diocese of Oxford.

The Reverend Canon Geoff Bayliss, chairing the Vacancy-in-See Committee, stated that their Statement of Needs demonstrates the considerable work put in by many people and offers a comprehensive picture of the diocese’s nature.

He added that the document was developed through the consultation during which over 2,500 people shared their opinions.

This paper will guide the Crown Nominations Commission when seeking potential nominees.

After the Statement of Needs received its final form, the vacancy-in-see committee chose six people to serve as their delegates on the commission.

These individuals will join together with six appointees from the wider Church of England to form the full commission, which evaluates candidates and submits a name for the King and Downing Street to consider.

The Diocese of Oxford covers Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Buckinghamshire.

It holds the distinction of being the Church of England diocese containing the most churches, with more than 800 churches distributed across 609 parishes.