Chicago Episcopalians Pass on Lesbian Bishop

Chicago’s Episcopal Diocese today passed up lesbian Tracey Lind for its bishop post, instead electing popular Midwest-native Jeffrey Lee. But Lee is a firm supporter of gay inclusion, much to conservatives’ chagrin. “I believe God is calling us to full inclusion of gays and lesbians in ministry of this church,” Lee said. “The church has to catch up with God's vision.”

Lind’s candidacy made the race a showdown between the gay-friendly Episcopal Church and its Anglican parent, the Chicago Tribune reports. Passing over Lind makes a schism in the Church less likely, but conservative elements still aren’t happy. “All the persons on the ballot were in favor of the gay agenda, including the new bishop,” one reverend said. “I think that's shameful.” (More Episcopal Church stories.)