TOM Learning Process (May 2025)

Our Senior Episcopal Visitor to the TOM Community, Rt Rev Bishop Ric Thorpe has initiated a Learning process with the full support of the TOM Leadership team. This will be led by the Church of England National Safeguarding Team and Diocesan Safeguarding Officer as part of a review of the leadership and culture within the TOM community. This is being conducted from a desire to learn from past experience and to be proactive in ensuring TOM continues to develop a safe, caring culture where there is healthy and accountable leadership.

This process will involve multiple stakeholders including people from within the TOM community and those who may have been impacted whilst in the TOM community.

If you have any further questions about this Learning Process, please direct them to the TOM Secretary Gareth Irvine secretary@missionorder.org in the first instance.

If you have a safeguarding question or concern, you can contact us here.

Transition of Senior Visitor Role

(updated July 2025)

As recently announced in mainstream news, the Senior Visitor to The Order of Mission, the Rt Rev Ric Thorpe has been appointed as Bishop of Melbourne. As such, a process of transition of the role and duties of the Senior Visitor to The Order of Mission is underway. Bishop Ric is working with our Senior Guardian and Leadership to ensure a considered and timely transition over the coming months, including the transfer of oversight of the current Learning Process.

Process & Timeline for the Appointment

June-July ‘25 : Existing Visitor to canvass existing Bishops who may fit the person and role specification, and discuss with Senior Guardian possible candidates to meet.

July-August ‘25 : Likely candidate(s) meet with Senior Guardian to explore the role.

August-September ‘25 : Senior Guardian confirms Senior Visitor appointment by letter, after consulting with the Global Leadership Team.

September ‘25 : Announcement of appointment at the Annual Chapter meeting followed up by email to TOM members.

September-October ‘25 : Handover of responsibilities from departing Senior Visitor to incoming Senior Visitor.