Episcopal Church Lifts Ban on Gay Bishops

Leaders of the Episcopal Church voted overwhelmingly yesterday to allow the ordination of gay and lesbian bishops, risking further fissures with conservative parishes and the Anglican Communion. The new policy reverses a 2006 compromise that prohibited the consecration of homosexual clergy, in line with other Anglican churches. Episcopalians will vote on blessing same-sex unions in the coming days, reports the Los Angeles Times.

"I'm simply delighted at the possibility that another diocese will recognize the gifts of a gay or lesbian clergy person," said Gene Robinson, the openly gay bishop of New Hampshire. "I long for the day when someone who shares my experience as an openly gay bishop joins me in the House of Bishops. It has been lonely." (More Anglican Church stories.)