Earlier this year, Bishop George Sumner called for the election of a Bishop Coadjutor. This unique leadership role allows members of the Diocese to elect the next Diocesan Bishop while the current Bishop remains in office. The person elected will serve alongside Bishop Sumner for a time, and when Bishop Sumner resigns, the Coadjutor becomes the Bishop Diocesan. As this process proceeds, there will be opportunities for all members of the Diocese to participate.
As we consider the process, it is worth noting that Bishop Sumner has designated alternative oversight for a few parishes in the Diocese, namely those that desire marriage equality for LGBTQ+. Bishop Sumner remains our Bishop on matters of property and general matters, while Bishop Wayne Smith oversees our sacramental matters. Recorded earlier this year, the following video from Bishop Smith offers a short explanation of the relationship that exists between our Diocese and the parishes he oversees for sacramental affairs.
Many in the Diocese hope the election of a Bishop Coadjutor may end alternative oversight and reunify our parishes in the Diocese of Dallas. The Bishop Coadjutor search committee has invited everyone in the Diocese to complete a survey. We can each participate in this important process, and I ask you to consider voicing your opinion by thoughtfully and prayerfully responding. The next step of the process will likely include public sessions this fall, which we will publish here so that Ascension can be well represented. The election of the Bishop Coadjutor is set to take place in May 2025. I will continue to offer regular updates; in addition, you can look to the Diocese’s website for more information.
Blessings,
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