The electoral college for the diocese of Clogher meets in Armagh today, May 4. Unlike their Scot’s episcopal neighbours to the east, or their Canadian and United States cousins to the west, the names of candidates are not published in the Church of Ireland. Each occasion is consequently open to speculation and rumour. Who might be considered possibilities for discussion today?
The Dean of Derry, Dr. William Morton, has done a superb job in negotiating and seeing through a major renovation of the cathedral and the refurbishment of the grounds and the adjoining buildings. He has promoted good cross community relations, and maintained the musical tradition of the cathedral on very slender resources indeed. A firm but gentle man, he is himself a capable musician and a good communicator both of the written and spoken word.
The ‘northern’ Honorary Secretary of the General Synod, the Rev. John McDowell, who is rector of Saint Mark’s, Dundela, a virtual nursery of bishops, is, like Dr. Morton, a moderate and traditional man in liturgical matters. He brings also a range of experience, competencies and skills in management A from before his ordination.
For a gentle evangelical, the college could consider the rector of Dungannon, the Rev. Andrew Forster. A former dean of residences at Queens University, he has had experience as a rector and archdeacon, and has served on both sides of the border which runs through the diocese.
If the college felt innovative and businesslike outreach was a key criterion here, the rector of Willowfield, Canon David McClay, could come into consideration. As well as extensive expertise in social outreach programmes, he is involved with the New Wine and Sow church planting programmes.
The successor to Dr. Michael Jackson, the new Archbishop of Dublin, will find a diocese which has focused on mission abroad, on worship, youth and outreach at home. There is much already happening in what is quite a distinctive diocese.
Fundamentally, any appointment which does not produce an effective “Pastor Pastorum” will have failed. A bishop who knows his/her clergy, their spouses and families is essential. It should be a non-negotiable. Ministers need ministered to. A bishop who can closely affirm and encourage clergy in their ministry will achieve much more for the Kingdom than a host of campaigns and swish PR.
Please remember the diocese of the college in prayer today and in the days to come the candidate who may be selected.