Chris McLeod is still awaiting the official consecration ceremony at which he will become the Assistant Bishop in the Adelaide Diocese—located in the Australian state of South Australia (SA)—but through an interview with the Bible Society this week, the Gurindji man made it clear that his thoughtful disposition has already incorporated the new role. Mr McLeod will be Australia's second-ever National Australian Bishop, following the retirement of North Queensland's Jim Leftwich in 2010.
Mr McLeod placed matters of pertinence for the country's Aboriginal people front-and-centre, explaining to readers that: "For many Aboriginal people spirituality is integral to their well being." This attitude was echoed by the Adelaide Diocesan Council, and its representative, Archbishop Jeffrey Driver, who informed the public of his personal hopes, as well as those of the Council:
"As a Bishop, Chris McLeod will have a role of listening, caring and advocacy. I know that he will be sensitive to the culture and story of the Aboriginal people. 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."
Archbishop Driver further explained that Aboriginal concerns are not only an area of need identified by the Council, but are also underpinned by a statement of commitment. The appointment was only approved after consultation with both the Archbishops of the Australian Church and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Anglican Council.
However, Mr McLeod also voiced an intent to develop relations with non-Christians, who he hopes will understand the connection between the "good news of Jesus" and Aboriginal identity. Presently an Anglican priest in Brighton, South Australia, Mr McLeod will undergo the consecration process in early 2015.