Tomorrow’s Episcopal Ordination of The Revd Christopher McLeod, to Assistant Bishop with special responsibility for ministry alongside Aboriginal people in South Australia, is a landmark occasion for the Adelaide Anglican Diocese and the Anglican Church across Australia and the world.

The Revd Chris McLeod is of Gurindji descent and has been involved in ministry among and beside Aboriginal people in Anglican orders for more than 20 years.

The appointment of The Revd McLeod was made after consultation with each of the Archbishops of the Australian Church and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council and representatives from all over Australia and overseas will be attending his Episcopal Ordination tomorrow at 9.15am at St Peter’s Cathedral.

As an Aboriginal Bishop Chris McLeod will be responsible for developing and overseeing ministry among Aboriginal people which Jeffrey Driver says is an important step by the Anglican Church on the walk to reconciliation.

“This appointment is in response to a need as well as a statement of commitment,” the Archbishop says.

“My hope is that this will open up a new time for Aboriginal people in their relationship with the Anglican Church and that together we will enrich the life of our State and our Nation.”

AnglicareSA has given support for part-funding of the Bishop’s appointment making this appointment a significant one for the broader Anglican and South Australian community.

“We are proud to support the consecration of The Reverend McLeod and are pleased to be a partner in his Chaplaincy of Anglicare SA’s Aboriginal staff and his ministry with Aboriginal families,” AnglicareSA CEO the Reverend Peter Sandeman says.

 “We look forward to the increased understanding and reconciliation between the church and the Aboriginal community, with a particular focus on healing old wounds and fostering new and positive relationships.

“AnglicareSA commends the Anglican Church for its practical commitment to Aboriginal reconciliation.”