The Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, has announced his intention to retire in July 2026.
The Vacancy in See process signals the start of a period to appoint a new Diocesan Bishop for Oxford. This page will be updated when there is further information to share.
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Message from the Chair of the Vacancy in See Committee, the Revd Canon Dr Geoff Bayliss
"Our hearts ring with thanks for all Bishop Steven has done and continues to do. We thank him for this early announcement allowing us to make preparations. The role of the Bishop of Oxford is high profile, leading the Diocese of Oxford and representing the national Church in Parliament and abroad.
Appointing a new Bishop takes time but we are well placed for the journey. There is an already-formed Vacancy in See Committee, who work with the national Church to complete the work required by the Diocese of Oxford. Bishops are appointed by the Crown. This means the decision-making goes through Downing Street and eventually rests with His Majesty The King.
Brothers and sisters please pray with me that God will guide us on this journey."
Prayer
Almighty God, giver of every good gift:
Look graciously on your Church and illuminate our path as we seek a new Bishop.
Help us to work together for the good of your kingdom and all who live, work and study in the Diocese of Oxford.
Give wisdom and listening hearts to those who have influence.
Send out your Holy Spirit to call one who will faithfully teach, pastor, care for and equip us;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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Understanding the process of appointing a new bishop
The Vacancy in See Committee, made up of 49 clergy and lay representatives from across the diocese, has two main roles.
One is to work to create a Statement of Needs, which sets out what the diocese needs. This will be informed by a consultation across the diocese, which is expected to begin in January 2026.
The second is to identify diocesan representatives (see below). The Vacancy in See Committee will meet for the first time in early December.
The Vacancy in See Committee elect six of their number to form the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) - with the two Archbishops and six members elected nationally - who will then draw up the specification, taking account of the Statement of Needs. They also interview the candidates and then make a recommendation to His Majesty The King, via the Prime Minister.
This process takes time, and it combines both a robust governance process and a prayerful period of learning who God is calling into the role.
We call on all members of the diocese to pray. Anyone living, working or worshipping in the diocese will be able to contribute their views. More information about how to shape the choice of bishop will follow.
Bishop Steven will continue to lead the diocese until his retirement. The Rt Revd Gavin Collins, Bishop of Dorchester, will then take on the spiritual leadership of the diocese on an interim basis until the new bishop is appointed.
This page will be updated when there is further information to share.