When the Rev. Adam James Shoemaker is consecrated as the ninth bishop of the Diocese of Long Island, he will make history as the first Episcopal bishop of Arab and North African descent in the church's 237-year history. A feature by Episcopal News Service highlights how Shoemaker’s unique background as an Egyptian American—spanning Christian, Jewish, and Muslim family roots—has deeply shaped his faith journey and grounded his lifelong commitment to racial justice, interfaith dialogue, and reconciliation. Viewing himself as an "imperfect vessel" for this distinction, Shoemaker reflects on how navigating identity and prejudice throughout his life gave him "a heart for all that diversity."
From serving in Rio de Janeiro favelas to leading coalition work with historically Black churches in South Carolina, Shoemaker's career reflects a deep dedication to bridging divides. Yet despite the historic nature of his new role, he remains grounded by his close relationship with his family in Cairo, noting that "to my family in Egypt, I’m their brother, and their love for me is the same, bishop or not."
Read the complete profile on Episcopal News Service to explore Bishop-elect Shoemaker's full faith journey, family story, and vision for the Diocese of Long Island.