The Right Reverend John Bryson Chane
Bishop of Washington

June 18, 2006

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The election today of Katharine Jefferts Schori as the 26th Presiding Bishop is once again an indication that, even with our difficulties, the Holy Spirit is active and alive in the Episcopal Church.

The process of election in the House of Bishops is informed by prayer, collegial fellowship, silent reflection and hymn singing.

The environment was apolitical and focused on the process of election and discerning God's will.

The result was unexpected by all, and yet Katharine's election reaffirms a significant commitment to claiming the diversity of who we are as a church and empowering this diversity for global mission and reconciliation.

In Christ’s Peace, Love, and Power,

John Bryson Chane, Bishop