What is a bishop?
Bishops are charged with the apostolic work of leading, supervising, and uniting the church. Bishops represent Christ and his church, and they are called to provide Christian vision and leadership for their dioceses. For a more detailed definition, see: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/library/glossary/bishop
Where do I find updates on the process?
The search committee will send updates in the weekly diocesan newsletter as often as possible. Updates will also be posted on the Diocesan Website in the ‘Bishop Transition’ section. The best ways for everyone to participate in this process is to provide feedback when it’s requested and pray for the work of both the search and transition committees.
What is a diocesan profile? How will it be developed? When will we be able to see it?
The diocesan profile is a document that describes the Diocese of Oregon. It includes information about our history, our parishes and people, our ministries, our environment, and what we are looking for. This document will be published online on October 1, 2019. It is an important way for potential applicants to learn about us and decide if they feel called to apply.
How does the election happen? Who gets to vote?
The election will take place at a special election convention in June 2020. The people who will be able to vote are canonically resident clergy and lay delegates elected for the 2020 diocesan convention.
Who is eligible to be a bishop? Can our next bishop be from Oregon?
Any priest or bishop in good standing in the Episcopal Church who has not reached the age of 70 is eligible. Oregonians who meet this standard are eligible.
Will we get to meet the final candidates? When?
When the transition committee is formed, they will plan walkabouts for the final candidates. Walkabouts are when transition committee sets up meet and greets with the candidates in all parts of the diocese. This will take place prior to the electing convention.
Are we using the same process we did before? Is it the same in other dioceses?
We are following best practices as recommended by the Episcopal Church and our Standing Committee. Since every diocese is different and changes over time, the specific steps vary from one search to the next.