The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano, Bishop of Long Island, recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming election of a new Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church. All of the bishops elected to serve the various dioceses of the Episcopal Church will convene in Christ Church Cathedral in Louisville, Kentucky, Wednesday June 26th, to cast their ballets and elect the next Presiding Bishop.
The bishops will gather behind closed doors to cast their votes via paper ballot. With five candidates in the running, the bishops will remain sequestered until a new Presiding Bishop is chosen. Following the election, a delegation from the House of Bishops will announce the result to the House of Deputies, who will then vote to affirm the election. Upon affirmation, the Presiding Bishop-elect will be escorted to the House of Deputies, where they will be welcomed by the entire General Convention of the church.
Bishop Provenzano emphasizes the significance of this moment, stating that the Presiding Bishop plays a crucial role in presiding over the House of Bishops' meetings and setting the momentum for the church's pastoral and priestly leadership. He reflects on the tenure of the Most Reverend Michael Curry, the 27th Presiding Bishop and Primate, lauding his "prophetic voice" that has resonated within the church, the nation, and the world. Replacing such a dynamic leader is a formidable task for the bishops.
Looking ahead, Bishop Provenzano expresses his hope that the next Presiding Bishop will focus on the governance of the church. He believes that the next Presiding Bishop needs to be someone who can manage the church's mechanics, ensuring its health and smooth operation.
For more news and highlights from the 81st General Convention, click here.
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