Waiapu Bishop for Dunedin

The Right Reverend George Connor was announced eighth Bishop of Dunedin in churches round Otago and Southland this morning.

George Connor (62) comes from the Diocese of Waiapu where he has served as bishop in the Bay of Plenty since 1989.

Bishop Connor is the highest-ranked bishop to be elected to Dunedin. He is currently Convening Bishop of Tikanga Pakeha – the second most senior bishop in the New Zealand Church.

Bishop Connor comes to Dunedin from a culturally diverse career. He ministered in the Solomon Islands for six years and in North Island Maori pastorates for eleven. He is fluent in Maori.

Bishop Connor's particular passion is liturgy and he has a "fascination" for Celtic Christianity.

Since ordination he has studied Celtic theology and liturgy in both Ireland and Wales. He also has carried out worship development with liturgical commissions in Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas. Next year he is set to launch a multimedia "Living Liturgy" project for the New Zealand Church.

Bishop Connor said today he was looking forward to discovering new territory, new people and new church communities in Otago/Southland.

He is delighted with this chance to serve as bishop of Dunedin. "I was genuinely surprised that I had been chosen. I see it as an enormous affirmation and a real challenge.

“I'm looking forward to getting there and discovering the people's vision for their diocese."

Announcing the appointment, Archbishop Te Whakahuihui Vercoe said he had every confidence that Bishop Connor was the right person to lead the Diocese of Dunedin at this time. “He has the skills and experience to enable people to reach their full potential in all they do and pray for."

Bishop George Connor will be translated as Bishop of Dunedin following Easter 2005. He succeeds Bishop Penny Jamieson who retired in June 2004.

Bishop George is married to Nonie and they have four adult children.

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