The first challenge he faces is the move to Adelaide, getting to know the city’s people and culture, which he expects will be quite different from the diocese of Brisbane.
Bishop Smith has worked with the Sudanese community in Brisbane and is pleased that Adelaide is becoming more multicultural.
Church attendances have risen and declined in cycles over the centuries but Bishop Smith says God has not given up on the church.
He says research indicates healthy churches tend to grow the number of people who are part of them, in terms of service to the community, and in faith and generosity.
“I’ve seen churches grow; I’ve been a part of growing churches,” Bishop Smith says. “I’m going to be very focused on helping our parishes to be healthy, as well as encouraging the Anglican schools.”