LA's Episcopal Church Nominates 2 Gay Clergy for Ass't Bishop Post

Yesterday leaders of the Episcopal Church here in Los Angeles announced the six candidates they've selected as nominees for two open Suffragan (assistant) Bishop positions, reports the LA Times, and among those in the running are two openly gay priests.

San Francisco's Rev. John L. Kirkley and Baltimore's Rev. Canon Mary D. Glasspool both mention their partners in their biographical statements, which are published for all six candidates on the LA Diocese's website. Their nominations are thought to stem from the Episcopal Church's recent shift in policy that essentially "lifted a de facto ban on homosexuals in the ordained hierarchy."

LA's nomination, in partnership with Minnesota's bishop nominee list that also includes one gay candidate, are thought to be swift reactions to the policy change, and may increase the tension between factions within the national and local Episcopal Church. Local worshipers who wish to meet the six candidates will have their first opportunity next month at a forum in North Hollywood, and "the two assistant bishops for Los Angeles will be chosen in December during the diocese’s annual convention," notes The Advocate.