Bishop Wilfred Wood, born on 15 June 1936 in Barbados, is a trailblazing figure in the Church of England and an ardent champion of social justice. His historic appointment as the Bishop of Croydon in 1985 broke new ground as he became the first black bishop in the Church of England, symbolising a significant step towards diversity and inclusivity within the Anglican Communion.

Wood’s journey to the episcopate began in Barbados, where he was deeply influenced by the vibrant Christian faith of his community. His initial move to the United Kingdom in the late 1950s was driven by a desire to pursue further education and ministry within the Church of England. This period coincided with a wave of migration from the Caribbean to Britain, introducing Wood to the complexities of racial dynamics in a post-colonial Britain.

He was ordained in the Church of England and served in various parishes, where his pastoral work was distinguished by a strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement. Wood’s ministry extended beyond the pulpit; he was actively involved in addressing racial inequalities and advocating for the rights of minority communities in Britain. His leadership and advocacy were instrumental in founding and supporting initiatives aimed at improving race relations and dismantling systemic racism.

One of Bishop Wood’s most notable contributions was his staunch opposition to apartheid in South Africa. He used his position to call for international sanctions against the apartheid regime and supported the liberation struggle, aligning himself with figures like Archbishop Desmond Tutu in the global campaign for justice and equality. His efforts in this arena underscored his belief in the church’s role in addressing political and social injustices.

Throughout his tenure as Bishop of Croydon, Wood was a vocal advocate for inclusivity within the Church of England, pushing for the ordination of women priests and greater representation of ethnic minorities in church leadership positions. His work paved the way for significant changes within the church, highlighting the importance of reflecting the diversity of its congregation in its clerical leadership.

After retiring in 2003, Bishop Wood has maintained an active role in public life, lending his voice to ongoing discussions on race, inequality, and the role of the church in society. His contributions have been recognised with numerous accolades, including his appointment as a Knight of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) and as a Knight of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (KCMG), reflecting his profound impact both in the UK and abroad.

Bishop Wood’s legacy is characterised by his unwavering commitment to justice, his pioneering spirit, and his dedication to fostering a church and society that truly embody the values of equality and inclusiveness. His life’s work continues to inspire those committed to social change, both within the ecclesiastical sphere and beyond.