WATCH wishes to express our compassion and concern for all involved in this situation – the Diocese of Sheffield its people and churches, and Bishop Philip.

We know that the debates over the appointment of a non-ordaining bishop to Sheffield have been deeply painful and divisive for all involved. We have always been clear that this is a theological debate and not personal, yet we know that this is not always how comments are heard.

It is our role in WATCH to ask the question ‘how do women flourish in the church?’ and we have done so mindful of the mission of the church and its witness to the wider community.

We pray at this time for all in the diocese of Sheffield, for Bishop Philip, and for the whole Church of England.