Doubts have now been cast over a report in the Telegraph that Twitter users will be invited to help choose the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
The Telegraph reported on Wednesday that “Having wrestled with the best way to choose a new leader, the Church of England has decided to use the social networking site Twitter.”
“It will seek the views of people of all faiths and none, from the Chief Rabbi to Professor Richard Dawkins.”
Quoting an unnamed spokesman for the Church of England using Twitter, the Telegraph said, “Tweeters and others will be asked to offer names and ‘views on the needs of the diocese of Canterbury and the wider community.’ ”
However calling the reports an exaggeration, the Church of England Twitter account has told an enquirer to “wait for real announcements” and “there is no such consultation planned”.
The process for electing the Archbishop of Canterbury is normally a private process in the hands of the “Crown Nominations Committee” which is tasked with presenting a preferred and an alternative candidate to the British Prime Minister, David Cameron.
The Church makes extensive use of Twitter and some of its Bishops are also active on the Social Network. Current front-runner for the job, Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu has 21,558 followers.
Sources