As we journey together in faith, the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island—encompassing the communities of Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties—is preparing to welcome a new spiritual leader. This process is not merely administrative; it represents a deeply sacred moment for our entire community, calling us to reflect, pray, and discern together.
The Profile developed by the Search Committee revealed some interesting facts about our Diocese and the Search Process:
A Mosaic of Cultures
Our diocese embodies the vibrant diversity of God’s creation. With 128 parishes offering worship in 13 different languages, we are truly a mosaic of cultures. This diversity enriches our faith community and reflects the unique character of the people we serve.
Ministry in Action
We are blessed with eight ministry corporations, including St. John’s Episcopal Hospital and the George Mercer Jr. Memorial School of Theology. Through these ministries, we are committed to serving both the physical and spiritual needs of our neighbors, demonstrating our dedication to holistic care and the well-being of all whom we encounter.
Justice and Mercy
At the heart of our diocesan mission is a commitment to justice and mercy. We strive for racial reconciliation, environmental stewardship, and community justice, firmly rooted in the Gospel’s call to love and serve all people. These priorities guide us as we work toward a more just and compassionate world.
Seeking a Bishop of Vision
Our search is focused on finding a leader grounded in prayer, empathy, and courage. We seek someone who can honor our rich traditions while also embracing transformation and guiding us through the complexities of modern ministry. This new bishop will play a vital role in fostering spiritual growth, supporting change, and holding space for both tradition and innovation.
The journey toward new leadership includes several important milestones.
Key Dates
- October 15, 2025: Deadline for nominations by others
- October 31, 2025: Deadline for direct applications by candidate
- January 9-11, 2026: Discernment retreat with semi-finalist candidates
- Late January 2026: Slate for final candidates prepared for Joint Oversight Committee
- March 2026: Meet and Greet final candidates throughout the Diocese
Discernment Timeline
The Electing Convention is scheduled for April 18, 2026, with the consecration of the new bishop planned for September 19, 2026. These dates mark significant steps as we prepare for this transition.
Listening to the Spirit
Throughout this process, we have made a concerted effort to listen to the voices across our diocese from Brooklyn to Montauk. Through 9 Zoom meetings hosting 144 participants, and 7 in-person listening sessions with 230 participants, as well as a survey that gathered responses from over 900 parishioners, members have been able to share their hopes, dreams, and prayers for the future of our community. These insights were invaluable in the creation of the profile, and we hold dear the insights gained as we continue to discern together.
An Invitation to Prayer
We ask all members of the diocese to hold this process in daily prayer. Please remember the Search Committee, those discerning a call to leadership, and the Bishop whom God is already preparing to walk alongside us. We pray together: “Come, Holy Spirit, guide our hearts and minds as we seek a shepherd who will lead with wisdom, humility, and love.”
To stay informed and receive updates on the search process, please visit the Bishop Search page where you will find the full version of the profile. Together, let us walk in faith and hope as we prepare for this significant moment in our diocesan journey.