The Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, has announced he has chosen the Rev Michael Stead to be the next Bishop of South Sydney. He will replace Bishop Robert Forsyth, who retires in December after 15 years in the position.
Dr Stead holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of New South Wales, is an honours graduate of Moore College with a Bachelor of Divinity and a Diploma of Ministry, and was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy by the University of Gloucestershire in 2007. He is a part-time lecturer in Old Testament at Moore Theological College.
The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Sydney confirmed the appointment tonight (Monday 24th August). In a speech to the Committee commending his new bishop, Archbishop Davies said “For the past sixty years, a scholar has adorned the ranks of the college of bishops in the Diocese of Sydney, including Marcus Loane, Donald Robinson, Paul Barnett and Peter Jensen. To my mind this is an admirable tradition which has served our diocese well, and I believe that Michael’s appointment as an Assistant Bishop will enhance our episcopal leadership in the Diocese, in the national church and beyond.”
Dr Stead has extensive experience in church affairs nationally and internationally. He is a member of the General Synod Standing Committee and has been the Secretary of the General Synod Doctrine Commission for the past decade. Internationally, he is an active supporter of the Global Anglican Future Conference or GAFCON and played a key part in the operations team that coordinated GAFCON 2013, as well as being a member of the writing group that produced the Nairobi Communique.
The Archbishop described Dr Stead as “intelligent, winsome and wise”.
“Michael has an extraordinary mix of skills and competencies, including computer science and accounting as well as theology. At the age of 46, he has already made an outstanding contribution to the life of our Diocese.” Dr Davies said.
Dr Stead is married to Felicity, and the couple have three teenage children. He has been on the staff at St James Turramurra since 2000, becoming rector in 2008. During this time, the church has more than doubled in size, growing from 4 Sunday congregations to 8, including 2 new church plants into local primary schools.
Dr Stead’s research interests include Biblical Theology, the Atonement, Hermeneutics and Eschatology. He has written four books and his latest work, a commentary on Zechariah, has just been released.
“I am humbled and honoured to be appointed Bishop of South Sydney. Felicity and I have always had a passion for parish ministry and this will continue as we support those ministering in the South Sydney region.” Dr Stead said.
“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.”
The Consecration Service will be held in the Cathedral Church of St Andrew on Saturday 5 December at 10.30am.
