In January 1618, Forbes was given the crown nomination to succeed Alexander Forbes as Bishop of Aberdeen, after receiving an unsuccessful nomination two years previously. He was elected on 24 March, obtained royal provision on 8 April and received consecration of 17 May.
In January 1618, Forbes was granted the royal appointment to replace Alexander Forbes as Bishop of Aberdeen, following a previous unsuccessful nomination two years prior. He was chosen on March 24th, received royal approval on April 8th and underwent consecration on May 17th.