Episcopal Diocese of Kansas Extends Bishop Search, New Election Date Set
The Episcopal Diocese of Kansas has extended its search for a new bishop, delaying the election and consecration dates. The decision comes after the search committee requested more time to consider applicants and broaden the pool of candidates.
Search Process Update
Originally, the diocese aimed to announce a list of three to five candidates on March 9, hold an election on June 13, and consecrate the new bishop on October 10. However, the Council of Trustees, acting as the Standing Committee, approved a revised schedule following a recommendation from the search committee.
According to an email from the Council of Trustees, the search committee found sufficient applications for a thorough process but recommended inviting additional applications to strengthen the selection. Rev. Torey Lightcap, co-chair of the selection committee, expressed confidence in the process, stating, “I believe that procedurally we followed the procedure to the letter, and I am grateful to the selection committee for showing unity in all of its decisions. We feel the guidance of the Holy Spirit in this process and we are confident that with trust and respect we can take the next step.”
New Dates for Election and Consecration
The diocese will now hold a joint diocesan convention and episcopal election on October 23 and 24, 2026. The consecration ceremony is tentatively scheduled for April 17, 2027, pending the required consents from diocesan bishops and standing committees. The selection committee will announce the next steps in the application and selection process in the coming weeks.
Transition Following Bishop Bascom’s Departure
The search for a new bishop began after the Right Reverend Cathleen Bascom resigned on January 31 to serve as a consultant to the Episcopal Church, focusing on creating ecoregional networks in the United States and Province IX.
Role of the Council of Trustees
During the period without a bishop, the Council of Trustees functions as the Ecclesiastical Authority of the diocese. The Council is comprised of fifteen voting members, including the Bishop (serving as Chair ex officio), four clergy and four laypersons elected by the Convocation Boards, and three clergy and three laypersons elected at-large by the Annual Convention. The Council of Trustees can be reached at cot@episcopal-ks.org.