One month after a large group of black and minority-ethnic (BAME) clergy wrote a letter criticising the lack of non-white senior clergy in the CofE, Downing Street has announced the appointment of the first BAME bishop for twenty years. The next Bishop of Woolwich will be the Vicar of St John’s, Upper Holloway, Revd Woyin Karowei Dorgu. The 58-year-old was born and brought up in Nigeria, and worked as a GP before training for ordination. He has been Vicar of St John’s since 2000. ‘We are greatly honoured to be invited to share and contribute to this dynamic ministry of bringing God’s love to the people of Woolwich and the diocese,’ Revd Dorgu said. Speaking to reporters, he said, ‘I want to encourage BAME vocations and more participation in ministry. I will celebrate the diversity in race, ability, gender, sexuality, and class. Celebrating our differences is a gift.’
First BAME bishop for 20 years
Written by David Fletcher 07 Jan 2017Additional Info
- Pray: for Revd Dorgu as he takes up his new post, and for all BAME clergy to be encouraged in their ministries. (Gal. 3:28)
- More: www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2016/23-december/news/uk/first-bame-episcopal-appointment-for-20-years