Episcopal Diocese of Lexington extends its bishop search process

[Episcopal News Service] The Standing Committee of the Kentucky-based Episcopal Diocese of Lexington on March 23 announced it was extending the diocese’s bishop search process in order to ensure “a strong and faithful slate of candidates who reflect the hopes and needs of our diocese.”

The process for receiving new applications will reopen on April 13 and close on May 4. The final slate of candidates is expected to be released on July 1.

The search committee believes there are people who “might not have been in a position to apply” earlier but will “step forward in this extended search,” according to the announcement.

It also noted, “We know this may be unexpected news. We, too, had hoped to announce our slate of nominees this week. As people of faith, we also know that our timing is not always the same as God’s. We believe the Holy Spirit is guiding our journey toward the election of our next diocesan bishop.”

A page of frequently asked questions about the search process also was provided.

Lexington Bishop Mark Van Koevering announced in 2024 that he will retire on June 1, and the announcement said an interim bishop, who has not yet been named, will serve after that date and until the consecration of the next diocesan bishop.

The date of the electing convention will be set by Van Koevering, but the standing committee said it expects that to be Aug. 1 at Lexington’s Christ Church Cathedral. Pending consents from diocesan standing committees and bishops, the bishop’s consecration will be Dec. 12.

On March 9, the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas also announced an extension of its bishop search process, with its proposed bishop election moved from June 13 to the meeting of Diocesan Convention Oct. 23-24.