25th August, 2015
Rev Michael Stead will replace the retiring Anglican Bishop of South Sydney, Robert Forsyth, the Archbishop of Sydney, Glenn Davies, has announced.
Bishop Forsyth will retire in December after 15 years in the position. The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Sydney confirmed Dr Stead’s appointment earlier this week.
Archbishop Davies said the appointment of Dr Stead, a part-time lecturer in Old Testament at Moore Theological College who gained a PhD from the University of Gloucestershire in 2007, continues a 60 year tradition of having a scholar among the ranks of bishops in the Diocese of Sydney.
He said Dr Stead came to the office with an "extraordinary mix of skills and competencies" and had already made an outstanding contribution to the life of the diocese.
Dr Stead, who is married to Felicity and has three teenaged children, has been on staff at St James Turramurra since 2000 and became rector in 2008. He has extensive experience in church affairs both in Australia and internationally.
Dr Stead said he was "humbled and honoured" to be appointed Bishop of South Sydney. "I am looking forward to working together with churches as we seek to proclaim the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ and draw people into a vibrant life of faithful obedience."
A consecration service will be held in the Cathedral Church of St Andrew on 5th December.
– DAVID ADAMS
