In a first for Anglican Church transparency, The Church of England is asking the public to send e-mails and letters with comments as it seeks a successor to retiring leader, the Archbishop of Canterbury Rev. Rowan Williams by the end of 2012.

"Any person wishing to comment on the challenges and opportunities that should be taken into account in considering the appointment of his successor or who wishes to propose candidates should email, by Monday 30th," to a designated e-mail address, the Church wrote in a statement.

The consultation process has already begun as the body in charge of the process, the 16-member Crown Nominations Commission, is looking ahead to who it will consider for the role.

The move comes "following changes to introduce more transparency in the appointment of bishops," the church said in a statement.

The CNC will submit its preferred candidate to England's Prime Minister, who will in turn give it to the Queen.

The CNC's membership includes a mix of clergy and laypersons.

See the Church's announcement (click here) for details on the contact e-mail and addresses.