The Right Revd Graham James, Bishop of Norwich

The Bishop of Norwich “hasn’t placed bets on himself”

Talking to BBC Radio Norfolk yesterday (Tuesday 25th September), the Bishop commented that he hoped he wouldn’t be called to the role, as it would be a very difficult task.

He said “I haven’t placed a bet on myself and I wouldn’t advise anyone to do so! The role of the Archbishop of Canterbury is a hugely important one but of course it’s also a massively demanding one as you have huge expectations placed upon you, but relatively little power and executive authority. And I also think as I am going to be 62 in the not too distant future, it’s probably a job for a younger man than me.”

When asked if the job was a calling he said “Well that’s true of course in relation to almost every appointment as a bishop – you don’t apply. You’re right it’s true in relation to vocation that it’s not to do with the fulfilment of an ambition, and anyone who really longs to be the Archbishop of Canterbury is probably not well equipped to do the job. But none the less I am fairly sure that the whole process will be led, I hope and pray, to God choosing someone other than me.”

He also said that “whoever is appointed will certainly need the prayers and support of everybody within the Church of England - and more widely too.”