Election of bishop in Old Catholic Church of Haarlem: "Truly exciting"

The Old Catholic Church of Haarlem is preparing for a public election to select its new bishop, succeeding the retiring Mgr. Dr. Dirk Jan Schoon. Unlike previous elections where a successor was evident, this process features a wide pool of eligible priests from the Haarlem and Utrecht dioceses, making the outcome highly unpredictable. A committee composed of clergy and laity will conduct secret ballot rounds to reach a majority decision, a process reflecting traditions dating back to the early church. Once a candidate is selected, they must accept the position, a choice that may involve personal deliberation.

The role of the bishop is central to the governance and spiritual leadership of the diocese, serving as a public representative of the church. The successful candidate will assume administrative duties immediately following acceptance, with the formal consecration ceremony scheduled for October 10 at the Grote or Sint Bavo church in Haarlem.