Bishops
A bishop is a senior member of the clergy. Each Diocese has a diocesan bishop, who is the head of his diocese in matters pastoral and administrative. The 44 diocesan bishops are supported by assistant bishops, sometimes referred to as suffragan bishops, who have specific responsibilities for geographical sub areas of the diocese under the overall direction of the diocesan bishop.
In the Diocese of Winchester, the Diocesan Bishop, the Bishop of Winchester, is supported in his ministry by two suffragan Bishops, the Bishop of Basingstoke and the Bishop of Southampton. Together they give a spiritual lead to the Diocese and pastoral support and encouragement to those in ministry. They are assisted in all their work by a small but highly dedicated personal staff, whose service and commitment is greatly appreciated.
At parish level, bishops institute new incumbents, license clergy and other office holders, confirm new Church members, preach at special services, take part in major festivals, consecrate church buildings and burial grounds, dedicate additional places of worship, conduct formal visitations and simply spend time with the people of the parish. Bishops also visit church schools and other church or non-church organisations.
With the help of archdeacons and rural deans, bishops support the ministry of all clergy in the diocese and provide pastoral support to them. They are often called to act in crises and to resolve pastoral problems in parishes or deaneries.
The Diocesan Bishop chairs the Diocesan Synod (meets twice a year) and its Standing Committee (meets regularly over the year). The Bishop's seat is in the Cathedral where he is also has a role of 'visitor' and can take part in, but not vote, at meetings of the Cathedral Council. Diocesan Bishops have a regional as well as a national and international role. In addition, together with the suffragan Bishops, he has extensive parish commitments including confirmation services, taking part in major diocesan and parish celebrations.
External links
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Information on the previous Bishops of Winchester